
Tag: Expanded Learning Opportunities
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This Could Not Have Been An Email: Social Emotional Learning Makes Meetings Meaningful

A common complaint heard after many work meetings is, “This could have been an email”. For Expanded Learning providers participating in Tacoma’s Whole Child partnership under COVID-19 conditions, virtual team meetings have been something they actually look forward to. After 3 years of providing programs on-site at 12 elementary schools across Tacoma, Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) had to shift to an online format under COVID-19 conditions. This meant that ELO providers wouldn’t see > Continue Reading
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The Legacy of Mr. Rogers In Tacoma’s Whole Child Virtual Expanded Learning

For more than 30 years Mister Rogers used his groundbreaking PBS television show to make a personal connection with millions of children. Speaking directly into the camera, he invited his viewers to join him in learning new things, playing together, and reflecting on what it means to be a good “neighbor”. “Expanded Learning Opportunities have always provided a unique space for students to make connections with each other and with a caring adult.” Building on > Continue Reading
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Local Online Learning Adapts For Youth Who Don’t Want To Feel Alone

‘I just don’t like feeling alone.’ The youth Choreographer’s Workshop at Tacoma Arts Live looked a lot different this summer. Gathering on screen via Zoom, instead of in a dance studio, each student rehearsed their routine in their own individual square with their sound settings on mute. Whenever a classmate had a question or needed > Continue Reading
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Parents See the Difference Caring Adults Make for Their Students

Members of the Vision Step team at Edison Elementary School marched into the cafeteria as they wrapped up their after-school step dance session on a recent afternoon. As the girls waited for their rides to arrive, Codi Scharry and Danielle Bryant, parents of team members, handed out Rice Krispy treats to everyone. “I bring snacks > Continue Reading
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20 Minutes Can Make All The Difference For Students In Expanded Learning

When school lets out at Tacoma’s Birney Elementary, Sergio Beltran can be found outside the cafeteria greeting students as they head into Expanded Learning at the All-Star Center. On a recent Thursday, Sergio noticed one student looked a little down as he entered the space. Sergio took a few minutes right away to talk one-on-one > Continue Reading
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Working Together, Tacoma Organizations Remove Barriers to Expanded Learning Opportunities

When the bell rings at the end of the day at Tacoma Public School’s DeLong Elementary, some students head home with their parents, some get on the bus, and some of them go to Dragon’s Club. Dragon’s Club is an after-school program that provides Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) like dance, art, and mentorship. Located in > Continue Reading
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Community Partnerships Expand Expanded Learning Opportunties for Tacoma Students

This Fall, elementary students at 22 Tacoma Public Schools will have on-site access to Expanded Learning Opportunities with the support of wide-reaching community partnerships and funding from national and local sources. These Expanded Learning Opportunities – like visual and performing arts, dance, robotics, STEM, mentorship, sports, and more – take place before and after school, > Continue Reading
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Expanded Learning Opportunites Lead to Growth for Students and the Adults Who Work With Them

Students and parents from 12 Elementary Schools in Tacoma celebrated a school year worth of Expanded Learning Opportunities with an event at Edison Elementary on May 30. The students showcases their learning through art, dance, writing, and song. Parents noticed the difference these Expanded Learning Opportunities made for their kids. “My son has always been > Continue Reading
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Failure is a Necessity for Youth in Alchemy’s Skate In School Program

As his knee hit the ground, Alex Miles quickly tucked and rolled from forearm to shoulder, immediately popping up to his feet and right back onto his skateboard. “I don’t really get that frustrated anymore when I fall,” Alex said, ” I’m just used to it now.” Alex is one of a few students learning > Continue Reading
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KBTC Uses Marbles, Paint, and Dr. Seuss to Make After-school Science Fun

On a recent afternoon at Jennie Reed Elementary School, first-grader Sadie’Sade was one of about a dozen students using a tray filled with paint and marbles to try to create a picture. As she rocked the tray back and forth she said, “I like it because it’s fun!” But the activity was more than just > Continue Reading