The Out of School & Summer Learning Network is dedicated to increasing equitable access and enrollment in out-of-school and summer learning opportunities. We use data to drive targeted action and make high-quality program training available to all community program providers.
Increase student engagement through youth program quality tools.
Address barriers and promote opportunities for students and families, particularly those in underresourced areas.
Measure who OOSSLN partners serve and the impact of programs on youth development.
Out of School Summer Learning Network was established in 2013 to increase the positive impact and the cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic diversity of the expanded learning opportunities for Tacoma students. The Network is dedicated to ensuring students have access to the community’s quality out-of-school and summer programs, focusing on students furthest from opportunity. During the Summer, the network strives to prevent summer slide, which is the tendency for students to lose some learning and achievement gains made during the school year. By focusing on values of equitable access, quality, and data, the Network continues to improve outcomes for students furthest from educational justice.
In partnership with the Tacoma Urban League, Graduate Tacoma hosts an online directory connecting families and students to youth programming and Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) in Tacoma and Pierce County. To date, community partners have listed over 800 programs on the page.
Professional development opportunities for partners such as “Summer Blast,” our 2-day workshop series, and Winter Workshops in partnership with Schools Out Washington have provided this opportunity to support and elevate how partners engage within their youth programs and with families.
Since 2013, the Network has helped direct more than $300,000 from the Foundation for Tacoma Students to community-based organizations that reach students where summer learning participation is at its lowest.
Out of School and Summer Learning Network partners know the importance of fostering and supporting young people in and out of school. In working towards the 2030 Goal, OOSSLN recognizes at least two deeply connected indicators to the Expanded Learning Space and has set sights on identifying intervention strategies that support Social & Emotional Learning and Positive Adult Relationships for all Tacoma students.