FAQ's
21 Century Extended Learning Opportunites
What is the 21st. Extended Learning Opportunities Program?
The 21st. Extended Learning Opportunities Program offers students (K-8) exciting afternoon and summer programming within the four schools of the Caledonia Central Supervisory Union: Barnet, Peacham, Danville, and Walden. Support for this program comes from the State of Vermont, 21st. Century, Community Learning Center. For more information about this Agency of Education program go to State of Vermont 21Century. Or, visit the CCSU program website.
When is the Extended Learning Opportunities program expected to begin?
We have set the first full week in October as our goal for Barnet and Peacham schools, and the first full week in November for Danville and Walden. To meet these targets we need Site Coordinators and other program staff in place at each of the schools, and programs lined up to fill afternoon schedules.
What days and times will the program be offered?
Once up and running, programs will begin at dismissal and end with parent pick up at 5:30PM, Monday - Friday. During the school year, there will be four eight week sessions. Programming will not be offered during breaks. During the summer months, six weeks of programming will occur at two of our schools.
How will parents register for the program? Where can we find out more information?
Further information and registration materials will be sent home with students prior to the program starting. Updates and further information will be provided in school newsletters, on school websites, and on the program's website and facebook page. The Pogram Director Hank Ruppertsberger can be reached at the supervisory union office: 802.684.3801 (ext. 207), or h.ruppertsberger@ccsuonline.org
Is there a theme or focus for our 21C Extended Learning Program?
Yes, hands on learning opportunities that engage imagination, promote health and creativity, and build excitement for learning. Our guide in doing this will be the exploration of science topics, the use of technology as a learning and communication tool, the application of engineering concepts, the exploration of the arts, and the principles of math (STEAM). Learning will be active and occur within and beyond the walls of the regular classroom. Collaborating with us to develop this programming are the Montshire and Fairbanks Museums, Catamount Arts, Lyndon State College, Northern Skies Observatory, and the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum.
How will parents and community members be involved?
In order to provide students with meaningful learning opportunities, strong connections to the people and places of our school communities must exist. These ties will allow us to further develop a strong base of volunteers to help as an extra pair of hands, or initiate activities such as crafts or clubs.
Other than the Site Coordinator, what other staff positions are needed to support the program?
Because the size of programs will vary, two core staff positions will assist at Barnet, two at Danville, one at Peacham, and one at Walden. This will help to ensure that students can be grouped and supervised in appropriate age activities. Staff will also include teachers that are interested in using the afternoon hours to extend learning beyond the day's regular classroom.
What should teachers do if they are interested in getting involved?
Teachers interested in becoming involved should have a conversation with their school's Site Coordinator. In making their proposals, teachers should consider what portion of the eight week schedule is needed for extended student learning. Depending upon these needs, weekly schedules can be two or three days a week, for either two, four or all eight week of the session.