“When we gather across communities, we create new possibilities for children and families.” 

The Ecosystem Plan Design Team has been hard at work planning the next steps of developing the Ecosystem Plan. Collective imagination gives us the power to envision more than isolated programs; it allows us to design systems that connect schools, afterschool, housing, health, and nutrition. With California’s historic investments, this moment calls us to move beyond competition and toward collaboration, building pathways where every young person can learn, belong, and thrive.

Why This Matters

California is investing $4 billion in Expanded Learning for TK–6 students, a historic opportunity to reimagine how we support children and families. At the same time, protecting 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) is critical to ensure high school youth aren’t left behind.

This moment demands alignment: investments in schools, afterschool, housing, health, and nutrition must work together so every young person has access to safe, enriching opportunities.

The Invitation - Join the Ecosystem Advisory Team

Multi-sector leaders from education, health, housing, nutrition, youth development, and more are coming together to shape the future of California’s Expanded Learning Ecosystem through 3 convenings and virtual workgroups to keep the momentum moving.

This isn’t just another meeting—it’s a rare opportunity to co-design California’s next chapter for youth well-being at the intersections of our work.

The Ecosystem Advisory team will:

• Build strategies that connect school-day and Expanded Learning.
• Partner with community-based organizations to deepen and expand supports.
• Protect and elevate 21st CCLC funding for older youth.

Be Part of the Change!

Sign up to be a part of the Ecosystem Advisory Team by September 12th.

Join us in shaping California’s Ecosystem Plan, the third iteration of the Expanded Learning Strategic Plan.