CEO of Attendly
Vikrant Duggal has spent 2 years working with California K-12 districts on after-school program operations, compliance, and funding recovery. He is the author of The Missing Manual for After-School Programs and has published over 130 articles on topics ranging from ELO-P compliance to attendance accounting and ADA funding recovery.
Vikrant is the CEO and founder of Attendly, where he leads a team building compliance and funding recovery software for after-school programs. He works directly with districts — from on-site training sessions to weekly product refinement — to ensure the software solves real operational problems.
Vikrant holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Washington.
Author of
The Missing Manual for After-School ProgramsThe desk reference for California afterschool program directors. Covers ELO-P, ASES, and 21st CCLC funding, compliance, and operations.
Author of
Making It Work: The CALPADS Handbook and Attendance Recovery PlaybookThe practical handbook for CALPADS compliance and attendance recovery in California K-12 districts.
February 16, 2026
Attendly launches its Trust Center — a single destination where California K-12 districts can verify our security practices, compliance certifications, and data privacy commitments.
February 13, 2026
California districts are leaving millions in LCFF funding on the table. Learn how Attendance Recovery lets you reclaim $200K-600K annually using programs you already run.
October 8, 2025
Every school day in California is worth $74-$84 per student—this guide shows how to protect every ADA dollar with airtight attendance accounting, documentation, and instructional time compliance. Learn the 2025-26 updates on Attendance Recovery, Instructional Continuity Plans, IS rules, residency, and P-2 reporting to safeguard funding.
September 15, 2025
ELOP funding is California's initiative providing resources for TK-6 enrichment programs outside regular school hours — targeting low-income, English learner, and foster youth students. How eligibility is determined and what's required.
September 13, 2025
An ELOP program is a school-based initiative offering before-school, after-school, and summer activities funded by Expanded Learning Opportunity Program (ELO-P) funds. These programs provide comprehensive academic, enrichment, and social-emotional support for TK–6 students, ensuring consistent care and learning opportunities throughout the year.
September 11, 2025
After school programs offer structured, supervised activities for children, providing a safe environment for learning, play, and social development. These programs help improve academic skills, foster personal growth, and ensure safety during critical after-school hours.
September 7, 2025
Starting an afterschool program involves assessing community needs, planning for staffing and facilities, and ensuring legal compliance to provide a safe and enriching environment for students. This guide covers the essential steps from budgeting to hiring and training staff.
September 5, 2025
Running a successful after-school program involves balancing engagement, logistics, and safety, with a focus on continuous improvement and staff retention. Effective programs offer a variety of activities, maintain strong daily operations, and measure success through ongoing evaluations.
September 3, 2025
The Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) is a California initiative designed to provide enriching before-school, after-school, and summer programs for elementary students, addressing learning loss and opportunity gaps exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
August 21, 2025
Boosting student engagement in Out-of-School Time (OST) programs is crucial for maximizing their benefits. By addressing barriers like transportation and registration, fostering an inclusive environment, and involving families, programs can enhance student participation and retention.
August 19, 2025
Explore the essential strategies for running successful Out-of-School Time (OST) programs in California, focusing on funding, program design, and compliance. Learn how to enhance student engagement and family involvement to ensure comprehensive student growth.
August 15, 2025
Strategic community partnerships are essential for enhancing California's Out-of-School Time programs by providing resources, expertise, and support systems. This article explores how to identify, develop, and sustain these partnerships to enrich student experiences and ensure long-term success.
August 12, 2025
California's Out-of-School Time programs must adhere to strict compliance standards to ensure stable operations and funding. This article outlines effective strategies for managing compliance across staffing, data reporting, and audit readiness to support successful program implementation.
August 8, 2025
California's Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) emphasizes the importance of data management to enhance program quality and student outcomes. By leveraging precise attendance data and integrating it with broader student information systems, Local Educational Agencies can improve decision-making, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement.
August 5, 2025
Designing impactful Out-of-School Time (OST) programs for California youth involves creating enriching environments that support academic, social-emotional, and physical development. By focusing on student interests and integrating community resources, these programs can enhance learning beyond the school day.
July 31, 2025
Discover how to secure essential grant funding for California's Out-of-School Time (OST) programs, ensuring their growth and sustainability. Learn about key funding sources, effective application strategies, and smart grant management to support underserved communities.
July 22, 2025
Get ready for CALPADS afterschool data changes—ensure compliance and quality for ELOP, ASES, and 21st CCLC programs.
July 20, 2025
Master CALPADS reporting timelines for afterschool programs to ensure compliance and secure essential funding.
July 18, 2025
Unlock funding, compliance, and impact for your afterschool program with accurate CALPADS student data.
July 16, 2025
Streamline afterschool data with seamless CALPADS and Aeries integration—boost accuracy and save staff time.
July 14, 2025
Essential guide for California afterschool programs on CALPADS data reporting, covering student demographics, participation, attendance, and funding.
July 12, 2025
Discover how accurate CALPADS reporting helps afterschool programs secure funding and ensure compliance in California.
July 10, 2025
Guide for CA afterschool & expanded learning programs on CALPADS: understand reporting, funding, compliance, SIS integration, and data management for
June 16, 2025
AI tools are transforming education, potentially shortening school days while after-school programs preserve holistic learning.
June 13, 2025
Learn how California's LCFF funds schools for equity and local control, supporting high-need students and community goals.
June 11, 2025
Avoid the top 5 mistakes with CA after-school funding - boost compliance, staffing, funding, and student outcomes.
June 9, 2025
Discover how California’s LCFF modernized school funding for equity, local control, and student-focused resource use.
June 4, 2025
Learn LCFF entitlement components—Base, Grade Span, Supplemental, and Concentration Grants—to maximize school funding.
June 4, 2025
Explore LCFF’s impact on California school funding, equity, student achievement, and local accountability planning.
June 2, 2025
Learn how LCFF class size changes impact funding, space, and afterschool programs—and how to plan for smooth operations.
May 30, 2025
See how LAUSD strategically manages LCFF funds to support equity, adapt to changes, and maximize student outcomes.
May 28, 2025
Learn how to identify, access, and use California LCFF supplemental funds to better support high-need student groups.
May 26, 2025
Learn the eight LCAP priority areas that guide California districts to improve student achievement and engagement.
May 23, 2025
Strengthen your LCAP with an effective advisory committee, ensuring meaningful community input and student success.
May 21, 2025
With Maya Deshpande, a look at how Oakland Unified's YES! Sports is reimagining after school with equity and joy.
May 16, 2025
Guide to California ELOP funding: requirements, budgeting, timelines, and tips for effective expanded learning.
May 14, 2025
ELOP funds afterschool and summer programs in California for TK-6 students to boost learning and development.
May 12, 2025
ELOP provides California TK-6 students with funded afterschool and summer enrichment to support whole-child development.
May 9, 2025
Online registration, secure payments, attendance tracking: Choose the right software for your afterschool program's unique needs.
May 7, 2025
Attendance Guide: Master tracking, compliance, & program optimization. Ensure funding and boost student success in afterschool.
May 7, 2025
Afterschool IT Success: Integrate Aeries, secure data, & simplify compliance. Build a reliable, efficient system for student support.
May 5, 2025
Site Coordinator Toolkit: Balance tasks, compliance, & student engagement. Expert tips to lead a thriving afterschool program.
May 3, 2025
Key takeaways from the 2025 BOOST Conference — CDE Director Michael Funk's message on Rate 1 changes, the leaders-vs-laggards mindset, and what expanded learning programs need to do now.
May 2, 2025
Director's guide to afterschool success: data, partnerships, compliance. Optimize your program with these expert insights and best practices.
April 30, 2025
Effortless emails for afterschool programs! Bilingual templates simplify parent communication. Customize and copy, all for free.
April 25, 2025
Everything California K-12 districts need to know about afterschool software — from evaluating features and compliance requirements to choosing the right platform for ELOP, ASES, and 21st CCLC programs.
April 23, 2025
Discover active learning strategies to boost student engagement, critical thinking, and knowledge retention. Transform your classroom today!
April 21, 2025
Whole Child Development nurtures all aspects of a child's growth. Focusing on social, emotional & academic success for engaged, resilient learners.
April 19, 2025
SEL fosters crucial skills like self-awareness, empathy, & relationship building. It boosts academics, mental health, and overall wellbeing, setting students up for lifelong success.
April 17, 2025
Creative staff retention boosts afterschool program quality, stability, and staff satisfaction while reducing turnover costs.
April 16, 2025
November 2024: Updates to California's ELOP grant application and requirements for school districts.
April 16, 2025
Craft clear job descriptions, use thorough hiring steps, offer support, and observe candidates to hire and keep top teachers.
April 9, 2025
Digital registration software for afterschool programs streamlines enrollment, attendance tracking, and compliance reporting for CA funding requirements.
April 4, 2025
Integrate Aeries SIS with afterschool software to streamline operations, reduce paperwork, enhance compliance, and improve data security.
April 3, 2025
Announcing "The Missing Manual for California Afterschool Programs," a comprehensive guide for administrators managing expanded learning.
March 24, 2025
How California's Attendance Recovery program works — CDE requirements, implementation steps, and compliance guidance for the 2025-26 school year.
March 20, 2025
How California's afterschool programs could thrive with state control following the Department of Education closure.
March 19, 2025
How to streamline ELOP and ASES funding audits with best practices for documentation and compliance.
March 16, 2025
Side-by-side comparison of California's three main afterschool funding programs — ELOP, ASES, and ASSETS — including eligibility, funding amounts, and which is right for your district.
March 15, 2025
Learn how to navigating federal and state funding requirements for afterschool programs while minimizing administrative burden.
March 14, 2025
Federal program funding academic enrichment outside school hours, improving student achievement and engagement in high-need communities.
March 13, 2025
Practical strategies for creating engaging ELOP after-school programs that balance requirements with student interests.
March 1, 2025
New reporting mandates for expanded learning programs begin July 2026. LEAs must track enrollment and attendance data for CALPADS.
February 21, 2025
Learn how to use data effectively to demonstrate program impact and secure funding for your afterschool programs through metrics-based reporting.
February 19, 2025
Funding STEM afterschool programs in California through federal grants, state resources, and private foundation support.
February 17, 2025
California's ASES program funds K-9 afterschool programs, offering up to $163K per school with focus on student enrichment and support.
February 15, 2025
Learn effective methods to measure student engagement in afterschool programs, from key metrics to assessment strategies.
February 11, 2025
Proposed FY2025 federal education budget cuts funding by 11% ($10-11B), affecting Title I and afterschool programs. 21st CCLC funding remains flat at $1.329B.
February 10, 2025
Learn how to secure ASES funding: Requirements, application tips, and program management for K-8 afterschool success
February 7, 2025
California's ASSETs program: Academic support, enrichment, and family services for high school student success
February 6, 2025
Securing ELOP funding: Learn eligibility requirements, program design, and compliance for K-6 afterschool success.
February 5, 2025
Complete list of ELO-P allowable expenses — staffing, materials, facilities, transportation, and more. What California districts can and can't spend expanded learning funding on.
February 4, 2025
Transform after-school programs with student-led learning, life skills development, and community partnerships that meet ELOP requirements.
January 29, 2025
Federal orders require parent consent, curriculum changes & new funding rules for CA afterschool programs by Sept 2025.
January 21, 2025
Learn how to maintain ELOP funding eligibility through proper documentation, staff ratios, and strategic program management.
January 20, 2025
ELOP stands for Expanded Learning Opportunities Program — California's largest funding source for before-school, afterschool, and summer programs serving TK-6 students. Here's how it works, who qualifies, and what districts need to know.
January 19, 2025
Learn effective strategies to boost student engagement through meaningful recognition, creating a positive after-school environment.
January 18, 2025
Learn how to enhance afterschool program participation by implementing effective parent communication and engagement strategies.
January 17, 2025
Discover how to measure afterschool program success using key performance indicators that go beyond basic attendance tracking.
January 16, 2025
Learn the essential steps to launch a successful afterschool program, from planning and funding to staffing and compliance.
January 15, 2025
Failure plays a vital role in teen leadership development, fostering resilience and accountability in supportive settings.
January 3, 2025
Afterschool programs build teen leaders through daily practice opportunities, mentorship, and creating safe spaces for learning from mistakes.
January 1, 2025
Learn how to leverage attendance data to identify engagement patterns, improve program scheduling, and boost student participation.
December 30, 2024
Learn effective strategies to boost student participation by streamlining parent communication in your after-school program.
December 27, 2024
Learn how giving students a voice in after-school programs boosts engagement by 45%, turning passive participants into passionate leaders.
December 25, 2024
Discover how morning gatherings and social connections boost student performance and create lasting bonds in the classroom.
December 23, 2024
Learn which after-school expenses qualify for tax benefits, what documentation parents need, and how to track qualifying costs.
December 20, 2024
Learn about California's ELO-P compliance monitoring process, what to expect, and how to prepare for successful program reviews.
December 18, 2024
Learn how to prepare for California ELO-P audits with essential documentation, compliance tips, and program implementation best practices.
December 16, 2024
Learn proven marketing strategies to grow your after-school program in 2025, from digital outreach to building community partnerships.
December 13, 2024
Learn 9 essential steps to start and run a successful out-of-school program that inspires growth and boosts achievement.
December 11, 2024
Discover how giving students choice in afterschool activities boosts engagement, attendance, and creates more meaningful learning experiences.
December 9, 2024
California's $4B ELO-P investment shows promising results with 97% program expansion and improved student engagement in after-school programs.
December 6, 2024
How expanded learning programs maintain required staff-to-student ratios while scaling up operations with ELOP funding support.
December 4, 2024
California's new bill streamlines afterschool program data reporting into CALPADS system, effective 2025, reducing redundant paperwork.
December 2, 2024
Learn how afterschool programs can leverage technology to create engaging learning experiences while building digital skills.
November 27, 2024
Requirements, best practices & solutions for after-school programs to maintain compliance & funding in California.
November 25, 2024
Learn how to design flexible afterschool activities that engage visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing learners simultaneously.
November 24, 2024
Learn how to select the best student engagement software for your afterschool program's tracking and reporting needs.
November 24, 2024
Guide to choosing afterschool program software: evaluate features, costs, and scalability for your program's needs.
November 18, 2024
How to meet 21st Century Community Learning Centers requirements and maintain compliance in afterschool programs.
November 15, 2024
Guide to state and federal regulations for afterschool programs, covering compliance, funding, and management strategies.
November 11, 2024
After school activities offer growth but can cause stress, time constraints, and financial burdens for families.
November 8, 2024
Only 14% of US students join afterschool programs, while 50% want to join. Cost and transportation are key barriers.
November 6, 2024
After-school programs boost academics, develop life skills, and create safe spaces for students to grow and explore new interests.
November 4, 2024
Compliance in afterschool programs ensures safety, quality, and funding, fostering student success and community trust.
November 1, 2024
Compliance in afterschool programs encompasses the essential standards and regulations that ensure children's safety and program quality. This comprehensive guide explores key compliance areas including safety protocols, staff-to-child ratios, activity standards, and financial management requirements. It also discusses how modern technology solutions can help programs maintain compliance while reducing administrative burden.
October 31, 2024
After school activities have evolved into essential programs that extend learning beyond traditional classroom walls, offering students opportunities in academics, arts, sports, STEM, and community service. These programs not only provide a safe environment after the school day ends but also help students develop crucial skills, explore new interests, and build confidence through diverse, engaging activities that complement their regular education.
October 28, 2024
Efficient ELOP reporting is crucial for program administrators looking to maximize funding and demonstrate program impact, but the complexities of data collection and compliance can be overwhelming. This guide explores practical solutions for streamlining ELOP reporting processes, with a focus on leveraging real-time data accuracy and SIS integration to reduce administrative burden while ensuring funding requirements are met.
October 25, 2024
Learn three essential practices for sustainable ELOP success: data-driven decision-making, cross-disciplinary approaches, and community resource mapping. This guide helps K-12 administrators overcome common challenges, meet funding requirements, and create more impactful after-school learning experiences.
October 23, 2024
This article explores how academic enrichment programs can lead to student success by offering diverse learning opportunities beyond the traditional curriculum. It provides insights into implementing effective enrichment programs and highlights how technology, like Attendly, can streamline program management and enhance student outcomes.
October 22, 2024
A comprehensive guide for California educators on maximizing funding and streamlining reporting for afterschool and summer programs. It covers primary funding sources, reporting requirements, and demonstrates how software like Attendly can help educational leaders manage these processes more effectively.
October 21, 2024
The hidden costs and inefficiencies of manual attendance tracking in after-school programs impact program quality, student engagement, and parent communication. Digital solutions are suggested to streamline the process and enhance overall educational experiences.
October 21, 2024
Building strong family engagement in after-school programs through multilingual digital communication tools. The post explores how these tools can break down language barriers, increase parent involvement, and ultimately lead to better student outcomes and a stronger school community.
October 21, 2024
Extended learning programs can significantly impact student success, but measuring their long-term effects poses challenges for educators and administrators. This article explores practical strategies for defining, tracking, and communicating the enduring value of these programs, helping school leaders demonstrate their impact and secure ongoing support.
October 16, 2024
This blog post provides a comprehensive overview of California's Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P), explaining its purpose, scope, funding, and impact on educational equity. It also discusses implementation challenges, program flexibility, and how tools like Attendly can help streamline ELO-P's complex reporting requirements.
October 14, 2024
Unlock the secrets to mastering the California ELOP grant application with our comprehensive guide, packed with insights from successful submissions and expert tips. Whether you're a first-time applicant or looking to refine your approach, this essential resource will help you navigate the complexities and craft compelling answers that showcase your program's strengths.
October 11, 2024
Learn how to navigate the complexities of ELOP funding requirements with confidence and ease. This practical guide empowers program directors with key insights and best practices to ensure your expanded learning opportunities not only meet state guidelines but maximize their impact on students' lives.
October 9, 2024
Discover how expanded learning programs are revolutionizing educational equity for English learners and low-income students in K-12 schools. Explore practical strategies for leveraging these programs to close achievement gaps and empower every student to thrive, all while simplifying administrative tasks and maximizing your district's funding potential.
October 7, 2024
We share essential strategies for managing ELO Programs effectively, from streamlining attendance tracking to improving communication with parents. This guide offers practical tips to help overwhelmed Site Coordinators reduce administrative burdens, enhance program quality, and ultimately make a greater impact on students' learning experiences.
October 7, 2024
Learn how data-driven insights can revolutionize after-school program management, from optimizing resource allocation to personalizing student support. This guide explores practical strategies for leveraging attendance data to enhance program effectiveness, improve student outcomes, and secure vital funding in both urban and rural school districts.
October 3, 2024
Directors managing ELOP face challenges like staffing ratios, compliance, and attendance tracking. Leveraging tools like Attendly can streamline operations, ensuring efficiency and program quality.
October 2, 2024
Explore how California K-12 districts are transforming after-school program management, from ELOP reporting to parent communication. This guide offers innovative solutions for Expanded Learning staff to improve efficiency, maximize funding, and enhance student experiences.
October 2, 2024
Effective attendance tracking is crucial for out-of-school time (OST) programs, impacting everything from funding and compliance to program quality and student outcomes. This post explores why attendance data is so vital and offers practical strategies for improving tracking methods, helping OST leaders make informed decisions and demonstrate their programs' impact.
September 27, 2024
Unlock the full potential of ELOP funding for your after school program with streamlined attendance tracking. Discover how to overcome common challenges, improve attendance rates, and ensure compliance while providing enriching experiences for your students.
September 25, 2024
How California calculates ELOP funding for each district — the role of ADA and unduplicated pupil percentage (UPP), planning your allocation, and strategies to maximize your share.
