Expanded Learning Opportunities is defined as engaging, creative and fun learning activities that enhance students’ social, emotional, physical, and academic development through exploration, inspiration, and discovery of their own passions for continued growth.

These opportunities assist with improved achievement in areas of student growth, attendance, and better student/teacher relationships.

Expanded Learning Opportunities is one of the District’s top priorities in order to improve student outcomes and success. The Department of Expanded Learning Opportunities manages the 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant, Empire State After School Grant, and the Bosch Grant. We coordinate summer learning opportunities, winter and spring break sessions and afterschool programming.

Increased student instructional/enrichment time is currently provided in a variety of ways in Rochester City School District;

• After School Programs
• Summer Learning Opportunities
• Winter and Spring Break Programming
  
  

What does research say about Expanded Learning Opportunities?

Research reveals participants in high quality out of school time opportunities have

• higher levels of overall school engagement, work quality, and grades
• improved attendance
• better work habits
• lower dropout rates
  

Non-academic outcomes include

• improved self-esteem
• improved physical and mental health
• reduced incidence of antisocial behavior, sexual activity and crime
  

Our proposed approach features

• strong partnerships with at least one community organization
• incorporation of support services
• programming including adult learning opportunities