Maximize
Student Recovery

Community-based afterschool and summer programs accelerate student learning.

ESSER Funding Map
View COVID & Recovery Funds Map
Across the country, schools have been teaming up with community-based afterschool and summer program providers to support students during the pandemic, from providing remote learning help and enrichment to meals, to mentoring and well-being check-ins. These partnerships draw on decades of research that show afterschool and summer programs boost academic, social, and emotional learning.
With new support from the American Rescue Plan, schools have an opportunity to leverage support from community-based afterschool and summer programs to help students re-engage, re-connect, and recover.
Learn more about how you can take action today to make the most of this opportunity.

American Rescue Plan

provides funds to state and local education agencies to support students and learning recovery through afterschool and summer enrichment programs.

ESSER Funding Timeline
Download full ESSER Timeline

Funding

States received ARP dollars in March 2021 and are encouraged to begin dispersing funds to LEAs within 60 days. See US Dept of Ed fact sheet on funding allocation for more detail. State education agencies must complete the ESSER III State Plan Template and submit it to the US Dept of Education by June 7, outlining plans for responding to students' academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs, including afterschool and summer programs.

State education agencies must allocate:

  • 1% for afterschool programs
  • 1% for summer enrichment
  • 5% for learning recovery strategies, to include comprehensive afterschool and summer enrichment programs

Districts must spend at least 20% of funds on learning recovery strategies, including comprehensive afterschool and summer enrichment programs.

Resource: Defining "comprehensive afterschool programs"

Leveraging Evidence-Based Programs

Decades of research shows students who regularly participate in quality afterschool and summer programs

lightbulb Improve their school attendance, grades and work habits
update Are less likely to repeat a grade and more likely to graduate
groups Gain social skills, build confidence and learn to think critically
verified Have opportunities to earn college credits and explore careers

Ensuring An Equitable Recovery

All students, especially those who have been most harmed during the pandemic, should have access to the supports they need for a robust recovery:

location_city Deep reach and strong connections in underserved, low-income and rural communities
escalator_warning Caring staff trained to help kids build social-emotional skills and heal from trauma
maps_home_work Extra support for students who are English language learners, experiencing homelessness and have other special needs
food_bank Meals and safe opportunities for physical activities

Explore the evidence base

Experts in Your State

State afterschool networks and local programs in your area are ready to partner and serve.