What is Learn24?
The Learn24 network is the Bowser Administration’s hub for all afterschool and summer program opportunities available for school-aged youth. Mayor Bowser launched the Learn24 network in 2017, to foster better coordination between public agencies, schools, service providers, funders, and businesses providing out-of-school-time (OST) programming, replacing a fragmented patchwork of service providers. The Learn24 network promotes access to high-quality OST opportunities available for District families, bringing DC one step closer to Mayor Bowser’s vision of Afterschool for All.
Who is part of the Learn24 network?
The Learn24 network is comprised of District agencies offering and supporting out-of-school-time programs and funding, including: the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME)’s OST Office, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), the DC Public Charter Schools, the Department of Employment Services (DOES), DC Public Libraries (DCPL), etc.
What is the difference between Learn24 and the OST Office?
Learn24 is a mayoral initiative, led by the Deputy Mayor for Education’s OST Office, that improves collaboration, problem-solving, and cooperation across District agencies, around out-of-school-time programs and funding. The OST Office is the largest OST grantmaking entity in DC government. The Office is tasked with improving both the quantity and quality of OST programs through targeted grant-making for service providers, as well as coordinating OST efforts across OST-affiliated government agencies.
What is out-of-school time (OST) programming?
Out-of-school time (OST) programming is defined as a structured, supervised learning, or youth development opportunity offered to District children and youth before school, after school, on weekends, or during seasonal school breaks. The Learn24 network partners with OST providers through the provision of funding, so they can offer a variety of programs for families to choose from that meet their needs and that support their students’ growth and positive youth development.
Why is out-of-school time (OST) programming important?
A decade of research indicates that children and youth who regularly participate in quality afterschool and summer programs benefit in terms of their academic performance, social and emotional learning, and health and wellness. In addition, youth who participate in OST programs have improved school attendance, higher graduation rates, lower dropout rates, stronger academic performance, and improved positive behaviors and work habits.