Complementary learning implies that school and afterschool are distinct but mutually supportive in a child’s growth and development. Out-of-school programs ought not to simply extend or duplicate school activities and environments, but rather should leverage their flexibility and unique strengths to provide children with what they might not get from school alone. Therefore, while school time is dedicated primarily to academic growth, afterschool programs can provide unique opportunities for children to receive supplemental academic support, engage in experiential learning activities, and develop meaningful relationships with caring adults and peers.

Working in collaboration with the PPS Afterschool Manager, OCD is building supports for students’ homework success through a series of activities designed to establish usable and effective pathways of communication between a middle school and the afterschool programs attended by its students.