Building a framework for out-of-school time

The Larry King Center of Council for Children’s Rights recently released a new study on out-of-school time. This report, Expanding Learning: Building a Framework for Out-of-School Time, presents best practice research as well as the landscape of local out-of-school time programs. It highlights out-of-school time as “a unique space for learning and development-distinct from home and school- where children can engage in enriching experiences that broaden their horizons and build critical skills that support healthy development and lifelong success.”

This report is the culmination of a six-month community planning process around the enhancement and coordination of Charlotte-Mecklenburg out-of-school time programs. Led by the Larry King Center, representatives from 45 providers, funders and institutional partners participated in this process and addressed three key areas: program quality, profession development, and data and information.

The report was launched at a community event Nov. 22, 2013, that brought together more than 30 community organizations in attendance. Guest speakers included Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Superintendent Heath Morrison; Brian Collier, senior vice president of Community Programs and Civic Leadership at Foundation For The Carolinas; and Emma Swift, senior research analyst and communications coordinator at Public School Forum of NC. Each speaker discussed the importance of out-of-school time programs in the Charlotte community and the benefits those programs have for our youth.

To read the report: Download PDF