We develop and pilot models for after-school and expanded learning time that support kids’ intellectual, creative and healthy development and that can be scaled to reach large numbers of kids. Our models address elementary, middle school and high school students.
We independently evaluate models to identify replicable core elements of quality and effectiveness, and share the most promising approaches with policymakers, educators, foundations and after-school organizations in other cities and states.
The last decade has seen great expansion of after-school programs that meet the needs of kids and parents. TASC’s elementary and middle school program model has been widely adopted in New York City and State, New Jersey and elsewhere. Yet continuing variability in program quality and sustainability puts kids and parents at risk.
We’re piloting an expanded learning time approach because it’s time to re-think the school day and year and give kids more time to learn. We’re piloting high school models because we urgently need to engage kids who might drop out or leave school unprepared for college or careers. Because kids do better in school when they’re engaged, we’re piloting enrichments in areas such as literacy, science and service learning.
We draw on our grassroots and systems-level expertise to develop practical, cost-effective models that can be successfully implemented by community and school partners, and supported through public funding. Our laboratory is New York City, where we have longstanding relationships with more than 150 community organizations that operate after-school programs, as well as more than 350 public schools, cultural institutions and a network of organizations that develop curriculum and train staff. We work with these partners to develop strategies. And we provide financial support and extensive technical assistance to organizations that operate TASC model programs.
We adapt and replicate initiatives that have worked in other parts of the country, and offer technical assistance to share our models with other cities, states and regions.
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