Rhode Island’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers Initiative (RI 21st CCLCs) is a federally funded program to create high quality comprehensive out-of-school-time programs that provide students with academic, enrichment and school engagement opportunities designed to complement their regular academic program.

The Rhode Island Department of Education provides funds through a competitive grant process to schools, prioritizing those with high poverty populations and schools that are designated in need of improvement.  All 21st CCLCs must demonstrate a partnership between the target school(s) and a community or faith based agency.  RIDE currently supports out-of-school-time programs in 30 elementary, middle and high schools, serving over 8000 students each year.  The programs provide activities before and after school, during school vacation weeks, and during the summer.

These programs provide a broad array of opportunities for students and their families including such things as:

• Academic support, e.g.  homework help, tutoring, hands-on science, math clubs, literacy activities, SAT preparation, among other academic opportunities;
• Arts, e.g. dance, theatre, painting, ceramics, music, etc.
• Physical Activity, e.g. martial arts, sailing, swimming, skating, sports, etc.
• Youth Development, e.g. leadership development, social skills, violence prevention, mediation skills, community service, etc.
• Health Promotion, e.g. nutrition education, healthy cooking, substance abuse prevention, etc.
• Family Engagement, e.g. family events, family field trips, adult education, etc.

• Career Exploration and Preparation, e.g. community service, internships, job shadowing, etc.

 

The programs all participate in a continuous improvement process, a national data collection and analysis system, professional development opportunities, and other statewide, regional and national program improvement and sustainability strategies.

Currently Funded Sites and Contact Information

For more information, contact the RI 21st CCLC Co-Managers:

Jackie Ascrizzi, 401-222-8953, Jackie.ascrizzi@ride.ri.gov
George McDonough, 401-222-8940, george.mcdonough@ride.ri.gov