| | | As we look towards school districts reopening in the fall under different scenarios, primarily under virtual and hybrid models, so much remains tentative. One thing is clear. Out-of-school time programs have so much to offer, as we have been there since the pandemic hit. Programs across Virginia have been charting new territory in what meaningful virtual engagement and outreach, as well as what in-person safety looks like, all the while fostering culturally responsive practices and emotional supports. This practical insight, along with the fact that out-of-school time hours have, and continue to increase, equates to the necessity of OST programs being key partners in the planning efforts to support youth and families during this shift. Here at VPOST, we celebrate your ingenuity and dedication and encourage you to advocate for the value of what you have always done best- working within your communities to meet the holistic needs of children. | | In Case you Missed It, Watch the Virginia OST Town Hall | | On Tuesday, July 21, 2020, 250 out-of-school time professionals and advocates joined Dr. James Lane, Superintendent of Public Instruction at the Virginia Department of Education to discuss out-of-school programs partnering with schools during their reopening. Facilitated by Shanelle Ebanks of the Richmond Out-of-School Time Alliance and Blaire Denson of VPOST, hot topics included different reopening scenarios, funding, and the role of the out-of-school time community. | | VPOST Presents to the Virginia School Boards Association | | Because so much of the designs of what schools will look like in the fall and how OST fits in depends on decisions made at the local level, VPOST presented a live, interactive webinar to members of the Virginia School Boards Association. The presentation informed school board members on how OST programs have been responding to the pandemic since day one, potential ways they can partner going forward, including considerations for planning, funding, and resources. Out-of-School Time Educators and advocates can also reach out to their local school board to encourage partnership and planning. On our Resource Exchange Site, we have a template outreach letter for those wishing to reach out to school administrators and board members, along with other reopening resources. | Funding Updates CARES Funding through Locals Schools: Under the CARES Act, school divisions may use ESSER (Elementary Secondary School Emergency Relief) formula funds for any program under ESEA (Elementary and Secondary Education Act ), including 21st CCLC grant programs. Funding applies to both virtual and in-person instruction. Here is the press release from July 17, 2020, announcing the application window of those funds. School Divisions must submit them by August 14th. Rebuild Virginia: The Rebuild VA Grant Fund is a program to help small businesses and non-profits whose normal operations were disrupted by COVID-19. Rebuild VA grantees may receive up to 3 times their average monthly eligible expenses up to a maximum of $10,000. Applications become available on August 10, 2020. Learn more here. Federal 21st CCLC Funds: Last week, the Afterschool Alliance and the Bipartisan Policy Center, along with a host of other organizations, called on Congress to include at least $6.2 billion in 21st CCLC support in the upcoming COVID relief package. Learn more here about making your voice heard. | | | |
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