Think Together recently held its annual Lights On Afterschool event, a virtual livestream broadcast that illuminated the impact of expanded learning programs in California. This event featured California State Board of Education President, Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond, as a notable champion of expanded learning. The event, which aired on October 24, 2024, on Think Together's YouTube channel, was themed 'Think It. Dream It. Go for Greatness.' This marks the fourth consecutive year of their statewide virtual celebration.

The broadcast highlighted various programs offered by Think Together, including its expanded learning, afterschool, and summer initiatives. Compelling testimonials were shared by students, parents, staff, as well as prominent policymakers like U.S. Senator Alex Padilla and California State Board of Education President Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond. Also featured were U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten, California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber, and other influential figures.

In addition to the virtual broadcast, Think Together organized over 400 school site celebrations throughout California. These events, held in partnership with school districts benefiting from Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P) grants, included exciting activities like harvest festivals, art exhibits, and STEM showcases. Randy Barth, Founder and CEO of Think Together, emphasized the importance of ELO-P, which offers quality resources enabling students to engage in enriching activities that range from academic support to arts and sports.

Barth highlighted the organization's commitment to leveraging ELO-P investments, ensuring students receive high-quality academic support beyond regular school hours. The 2024-2025 California state budget, approved by Governor Gavin Newsom and state legislators, builds a foundation for improved data tracking and evaluation of expanded learning programs through AB-1113. This legislation requires the California Department of Education to monitor students enrolled in ASES and 21st CCLC programs via CALPADS, establishing benchmark data for enhancing program effectiveness, access, and equity.

Barth noted the passage of AB-1113 as a pivotal step towards comprehensively understanding these programs' impacts, reinforcing community strength, and addressing the needs of all students across California, despite the budgetary challenges faced. Think Together reaches nearly 200,000 students across 600 schools with its afterschool, early learning, and non-instructional day programs. As reported by the Afterschool Alliance, while 1.7 million children partake in afterschool programs, a significant number of kids remain without such opportunities.

Continued investment and initiatives like ELO-P reinforce Think Together's resolve to broaden access and provide students with the chances to excel academically and beyond. Think Together is dedicated to educational equity, partnering with schools and communities to implement scalable academic solutions that positively impact the educational journey of countless students in California. For more information, contact Think Together at (888) 485-THINK or visit their website.