Policy & Partnership

Why is Afterschool Important?

In Colorado, afterschool programs keep students safe, inspire learning, and support Colorado’s working families. Yet 140,009 school-age children in Colorado are alone and unsupervised during the hours of 3 pm to 6 pm. More than a decade of research confirms that quality afterschool programs are providing rich learning experiences for students, helping to narrow existing opportunity and achievement gaps, and positioning students toward a bright future as they move through school, career, and life.

Out-of-school time programs:

  • Improve engagement in school and conduct in school
  • Increase academic achievement
  • Immerse students in STEM
  • Promote health and wellness
  • Support working families

Find data and more supporting information in the This is Afterschool in Colorado fact sheet (from the Afterschool Alliance).

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Policy Development

Use the information on this page to support your understanding of partnerships and policy development.

State Policies

Colorado State Youth Development Plan

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Colorado Department of Education Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) 

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Colorado Office of Early Childhood Child Care Development Fund (CCDF)

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Afterschool Alliance Guidance for State Afterschool Policy 

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21St Century Community Learning Centers

Learn about the funding history, program outcomes and policy that defines the types of programs supported by this initiative in Colorado.

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Federal Policies

Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), now ESSA, is the law authorizing education programs, including 21st CCLC, Title I and other initiatives that support afterschool programs. ESEA, formerly No Child Left Behind (NCLB), was reauthorized in December 2015 as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The new law provides new opportunities for afterschool programs, community partners, and local input to support student learning.

ESEA Legislation Overview

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21st CCLC ESSA Information

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Afterschool Alliance Federal Afterschool Policy

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Advocacy

Find resources and tools to inform and support your advocacy efforts.

Policy Advocacy

If you are interested in taking a more active role in policy development, you can:

See policy alerts and calls to action, and stay informed about the latest policy news.

Policy News

Find resources and tools to inform and support your advocacy efforts.

Policy Advocacy

Building Partnerships

Learn how to develop and maintain partnerships to support your efforts.