Opportunity Should Not End When the School Bell Rings

Board President James Breedlove makes the case for expanded learning as an essential extension of education, not a luxury, and shares how Bridge Builders Foundation is closing the opportunity gap for Los Angeles youth beyond the school day.

From Our Board President

Los Angeles County is one of the most innovative and diverse regions in the world, yet far too many young people continue to face educational and economic disparities simply because of where they live.

Schools remain the cornerstone of student success, but they cannot address every academic, developmental, and social need during the instructional day alone. High-quality expanded learning opportunities have become an essential extension of education—not a luxury.

Countywide research estimates that more than 1.4 million parents want after-school and expanded learning opportunities for their children, yet fewer than 500,000 students currently participate. Families consistently recognize these programs for improving academic engagement, strengthening social-emotional development, developing leadership, and providing safe, supportive environments for youth while helping working families.

Bridge Builders Foundation experiences this demand every day.

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