On October 20th, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson recognized the California Department of Education 2016 California Expanded Learning Award winners. The award ceremony was a part of the Lights on Afterschool celebration. Improving and expanding afterschool has been a top priority for Superintendent Torlakson and states, ”Expanded learning programs help students thrive acadamically and socially.” The awards are divided into two areas: California Expanded Learning Visionary Leadership and Emerging Leadership.  There were six participants selected based on their outstanding commitment to improving and enriching the lives of young people through their Expanded Learning Programs. Click here for the complete list of Expanded Learning Leader Awardees.