Spring 2026 EXL Academy

Overview

Spring 2026 Expanded Learning Academy
April 2, 7 & 8, 2026

Spring 2026 EXL Academy Promo

The California AfterSchool Network, in partnership with the California Department of Education’s Expanded Learning Division, was proud to co-host the Spring 2026 Expanded Learning (ExL) Academy!

The Spring ExL Academy brought together district, school, and community partner practitioners for a multi-day virtual learning series focused on the design and ongoing implementation of California’s Expanded Learning programs (ASES, 21st CCLC, and ELO-P). Each workshop was intentionally designed as an interactive learning space — prioritizing practical application, peer learning, and real-time collaboration rather than webinar-style attendance.

Workshop Series Recap:

  • Wednesday, April 2: The Science Behind the Quality Standards for Expanded Learning
  • Tuesday, April 7: Data, Compliance, and Alignment: Navigating CALPADS & PASE for Expanded Learning
  • Wednesday, April 8: Making ELO-P Work for Your District: Collaboration Between Program, Finance & Leadership

Workshop recordings and resources are shared below. Catch up on any session you missed or revisit key takeaways anytime.

Post

Spring 2026 EXL Academy Details & Resources

Day 1: Thursday, 4/2

Topic: The Science Behind the Quality Standards for Expanded Learning

Description: This session grounds participants in the core principles of Youth Development (YD) and how they show up in high-quality Expanded Learning programs. Participants will explore developmentally appropriate practices, asset-based approaches, and the conditions that support belonging, voice, and growth—laying the foundation for academic success, engagement, and positive school climate.

Moderator: 

  • Michael Funk, Director, Expanded Learning Division, California Department of Education 

Presenters/Panelists:

  • Dr. Horatio Blackman, Vice President, K-12 Policy, Education Reform Now
  • Dr. Deborah Moroney, Vice President, American Institutes for Research® (AIR)
  • Dr. Sandi Simpkins, Professor, School of Education, UC Irvine

This 2-hour workshop included a presentation on the topic and opportunities for participant engagement. 

Resources

Day 2: Tuesday, 4/7

Topic: Data, Compliance, and Alignment: Navigating CALPADS & PASE for Expanded Learning

Description: This workshop provides timely updates from the California Department of Education CALPADS and School Fiscal Services teams related to Expanded Learning. Participants will gain clarity on reporting requirements, timelines, and common challenges, with an emphasis on alignment between program implementation, data reporting, and fiscal accountability.

Presenters:

  • Lindsey Castillo, ASES and 21st CCLC Program Consultant, Expanded Learning Division, California Department of Education
  • Lien Chew, Education Fiscal Services Consultant, School Fiscal Services, California Department of Education
  • Paula Mishima, Educational Data Management Division, California Department of Education
  • Shawna Shepley, Administrator, School Fiscal Services, California Department of Education
  • Liberty Van Natten, Director, Educational Data Management Division, California Department of Education

This 2-hour workshop included a presentation on the topic, along with opportunities for participant engagement. 

Resources

Day 3: Wednesday, 4/8

Topic: Making ELO-P Work for Your District: Collaboration Between Program, Finance, & Leadership

Description: ELO-P works best when it is an essential component of a district’s vision to support students and families. Hear from a school district superintendent and school business officials about how they align budgets, staffing, and partnerships to build high-quality, impactful programs for students and the broader district community. 

Moderator: 

  • Michael Funk, Director, Expanded Learning Division, California Department of Education 

Presenters/Panelists:

  • Jeffrey Dixon, Assistant Superintendent, Chief Business Official, Newport-Mesa Unified School District
  • Paula Ford, Assistant Superintendent, Business Services, Jurupa Unified School District
  • Socorro Shiels, Assistant Superintendent, Achievement, Innovation, & Continuous Improvement, Newport-Mesa Unified School District
  • Dr. Wes Smith, Superintendent, Newport-Mesa Unified School District

This 2-hour workshop included a presentation on the topic, along with opportunities for participant engagement. 

Resources

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CA Regional Map

Learn About the System of Support for Expanded Learning

The California Department of Education Expanded Learning Division (CDE EXLD) formed a statewide, comprehensive System of Support for Expanded Learning (SSEL). The SSEL provides field-based, comprehensive Technical Assistance (TA) focused on meeting program requirements and enhancing capacity to establish and maintain high-quality California Expanded Learning opportunities. The SSEL offers a diverse range of tools and resources to aid in this process.