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COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions 2020-21

Expanded Learning frequently asked questions related to COVID-19.

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  1. If a campus is closed for in-person instruction and operating in a Distance Learning (DL) mode, can the campus be used by the Local Educational Agency (LEA) and/or Community Based Organization (CBO) to operate an in-person program of any type using After School Education and Safety (ASES), 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) Elementary/Middle, and 21st CCLC After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens (ASSETS) funding?

    Yes, this is allowable, however the program would need to work with the school to determine campus operability. In addition, if a location that is off the school campus is being considered for use, this location also needs to be approved by the LEA in consultation with public health officials. The California Department of Education (CDE) approval of the off-school-campus location is required. The Off-site Program Information form (PDF) is located on CDE website.

  2. If a campus is closed for in-person instruction and the LEA is operating in a DL mode, can the campus be used by the LEA and/or CBO to operate a program to serve the school-age children of critical infrastructure workers and use Expanded Learning (EXL) funds to operate that program?

    Yes, this is allowable and is a local decision. In addition, school-age children of critical infrastructure families from outside of the LEA also may be served by the program. Students in foster care or students that are homeless must be given priority access. As space allows, the EXL program needs to also serve other eligible students from the LEA area in addition to serving school-age children of critical infrastructure workers from outside of the LEA area.

    These programs should follow the same health and safety guidelines outlined in Executive Order (EO) N-45-20 External link opens in new window or tab. (PDF), located on the Department of Social Services website. The Senate Bill (SB) provides the same flexibility to both ASES and 21st CCLC Elementary/Middle School grant-funded programs.
  3. Many schools/districts are considering offering on-campus in-person services for the most vulnerable students (i.e. special education, English Learners, homeless and foster youth, etc.). To implement this model, some LEA’s have asked district or CBO EXL staff to be on campus with instructional aides to support the students while they participate in DL as defined in SB 98, Statutes of 2020 or other enrichment activities.

    Yes, this is allowable and is a local decision. EXL funds can be used to pay staff who support students who are engaged in an LEA DL program that counts towards instructional minutes. These programs should follow the same health and safety guides outlines in EO N-45-20. (Please see link in number 2.)

Questions:   Expanded Learning Division | expandedlearning@cde.ca.gov | 916-319-0923
Last Reviewed: Friday, December 15, 2023
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