This report documents the After School and Out of School Time (ASOST) Quality Enhancement Grant (line item 7061-9611) that provides high-quality expanded learning opportunities (ELOs) before school, after school, and during the summer months to students across the state of Massachusetts. Through this grant, public school districts, non-public schools, or community based organizations (CBOs) with existing out of school time programs can apply for up to $25,000 in funding to enhance their program offerings, reduce barriers to participation, and expand into the summer months.
This report details the criteria for high quality ASOST programming and evaluation and provides several examples of successful grantee programs. The report documents the impact of the programming in MA to close opportunity and achievement gaps by providing students who have the least access opportunities for enrichment and continued learning beyond the traditional school day, improving college and career-readiness. This report encourages continued support by MA policymakers and could serve as an example of system-wide state support for ASOST programming for lawmakers in other states. Educators and community partners may also be interested in the information to improve ASOST programming and build public awareness and support for its continued need.
Source Organization: Massachusetts Afterschool Partnership