Introduction
Out-of-school time learning consists of any organized program available to children and youth outside of the school day, including afterschool and summer learning programs. In addition to providing safe and supportive environments for youth outside of school, out-of-school time programs promote social, emotional, and academic development.
Historically, youth success has been measured mostly with test scores and school-related outcomes. However, youth success cannot solely be defined by test scores. In order to better support our children and youth for the future, we must redefine education to include learning that takes place outside of the classroom and redefine success to include social-emotional and 21st century skill development. This story will examine the importance of out-of-school time learning in Rhode Island and the role it plays in promoting youth success.
