Vikrant Duggal

Protecting Every ADA Dollar: Your Complete Guide to California's 2025 Attendance Accounting Rules

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.

What is the best software for managing after-school schedules?

Discover the best software for managing after-school schedules, featuring platforms like Attendly that offer seamless integration, real-time tracking, and compliance reporting to enhance student safety and program efficiency.

How do leading tools handle daily check-in and check-out for after-school care?

Leading after-school care tools enhance daily check-in and check-out processes using kiosks, apps, and digital verification to ensure compliance and safety. These platforms integrate with school systems for accurate reporting and streamline operations with features like QR codes and PINs.

What is ELOP Funding?

ELOP Funding is a California state initiative providing resources to schools for enrichment programs outside regular school hours, targeting TK-6 students, especially those who are low-income, English learners, or foster youth. The funding is calculated based on attendance and the percentage of high-need students, with specific requirements for program implementation.

What is an ELOP Program?

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.

What is an after school program?

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.

How to Start an Afterschool Program?

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.

How to Run an After School Program?

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.

What is ELOP?

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.

Boost Student Engagement in Your OST Programs

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.

Your Comprehensive Guide to California OST Program Success

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.

Building Strong Partnerships for Your OST Program Success

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.

Effective California OST Program Compliance Strategies

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.

Leveraging Data for ELOP Success

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.

Designing Quality OST Programs for California Youth

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.

Secure California Grants for Your OST Programs

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.

The CALPADS Afterschool Data Implementation Roadmap

Get ready for CALPADS afterschool data changes—ensure compliance and quality for ELOP, ASES, and 21st CCLC programs.

CALPADS Timelines for Afterschool Programs

Master CALPADS reporting timelines for afterschool programs to ensure compliance and secure essential funding.

Why CALPADS Data Matters for Your Afterschool Program

Unlock funding, compliance, and impact for your afterschool program with accurate CALPADS student data.

Syncing Your Afterschool Data Seamlessly with CALPADS and Aeries SIS

Streamline afterschool data with seamless CALPADS and Aeries integration—boost accuracy and save staff time.

What Afterschool Programs Must Report for CALPADS

Essential guide for California afterschool programs on CALPADS data reporting, covering student demographics, participation, attendance, and funding.

What Afterschool Programs Need to Know About CALPADS

Discover how accurate CALPADS reporting helps afterschool programs secure funding and ensure compliance in California.

The Comprehensive CALPADS Guide for California Afterschool Programs

Guide for CA afterschool & expanded learning programs on CALPADS: understand reporting, funding, compliance, SIS integration, and data management for

If AI Shrinks the School Day, Who Fills the Gap? (Guest Post)

AI tools are transforming education, potentially shortening school days while after-school programs preserve holistic learning.

What is the Local Control Funding Formula?

Learn how California's LCFF funds schools for equity and local control, supporting high-need students and community goals.

5 Big Mistakes Districts Make with California After-School Funding (And How to Avoid Them)

Avoid the top 5 mistakes with CA after-school funding - boost compliance, staffing, funding, and student outcomes.

History Behind Local Control Funding Formula

Discover how California’s LCFF modernized school funding for equity, local control, and student-focused resource use.

Understanding LCFF Entitlement Components

Learn LCFF entitlement components—Base, Grade Span, Supplemental, and Concentration Grants—to maximize school funding.

Understanding Local Control Funding Formula Impact

Explore LCFF’s impact on California school funding, equity, student achievement, and local accountability planning.

Navigating Class Size Changes After LCFF

Learn how LCFF class size changes impact funding, space, and afterschool programs—and how to plan for smooth operations.

How LAUSD Manages Local Control Funding Formula

See how LAUSD strategically manages LCFF funds to support equity, adapt to changes, and maximize student outcomes.

Understanding, Finding, and Using Supplemental LCFF Funds

Learn how to identify, access, and use California LCFF supplemental funds to better support high-need student groups.

Understanding the LCAP Priorities

Learn the eight LCAP priority areas that guide California districts to improve student achievement and engagement.

Strengthen Your LCAP with an Effective Advisory Committee

Strengthen your LCAP with an effective advisory committee, ensuring meaningful community input and student success.

Best Afterschool Program Software - What to Look For

Find the best afterschool program software—key features for attendance, registration, payments, and safety.

Equity, Joy, and the Courage to Challenge the Status Quo (Guest Post)

With Maya Deshpande, a look at how Oakland Unified’s YES! Sports is reimagining after school with equity and joy.

ELOP Funding California Guide

Guide to California ELOP funding: requirements, budgeting, timelines, and tips for effective expanded learning.

California ELO-P FAQs

ELOP funds afterschool and summer programs in California for TK-6 students to boost learning and development.

What is ELOP? A Comprehensive Guide

ELOP provides California TK-6 students with funded afterschool and summer enrichment to support whole-child development.

Choosing Afterschool Registration Software

Online registration, secure payments, attendance tracking: Choose the right software for your afterschool program's unique needs.

The Meticulous Attendance Specialist Guidebook

Attendance Guide: Master tracking, compliance, & program optimization. Ensure funding and boost student success in afterschool.

The IT Director & Tech Team Guide

Afterschool IT Success: Integrate Aeries, secure data, & simplify compliance. Build a reliable, efficient system for student support.

The Site Coordinator & Program Leader Toolkit

Site Coordinator Toolkit: Balance tasks, compliance, & student engagement. Expert tips to lead a thriving afterschool program.

Leaders vs. Laggards: Why Mindset Matters Now in Expanded Learning

Data, Partnerships, and Compliance—A Director’s Guide to Success

Director's guide to afterschool success: data, partnerships, compliance. Optimize your program with these expert insights and best practices.

Introducing the Afterschool Program Email Generator (beta)

Effortless emails for afterschool programs! Bilingual templates simplify parent communication. Customize and copy, all for free.

Software Tools in Afterschool Care

Enhance safety, engagement, and efficiency. Learn how afterschool software simplifies tasks and creates better learning experiences for kids.

What is Afterschool Software

Stay compliant with afterschool regulations. Discover software for easy attendance tracking, reporting, & grant management solutions.

Active and Engaged Learning in Modern Classrooms

Discover active learning strategies to boost student engagement, critical thinking, and knowledge retention. Transform your classroom today!

Whole Child Development, Nurturing Minds and Hearts

Whole Child Development nurtures all aspects of a child's growth. Focusing on social, emotional & academic success for engaged, resilient learners.

Why Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is Essential

SEL fosters crucial skills like self-awareness, empathy, & relationship building. It boosts academics, mental health, and overall wellbeing, setting students up for lifelong success.

Creative Approaches to Staff Retention in Afterschool Programs

Creative staff retention boosts afterschool program quality, stability, and staff satisfaction while reducing turnover costs.

Understanding the latest updates to the ELOP grant applications

November 2024: Updates to California's ELOP grant application and requirements for school districts.

Best Practices for Hiring Afterschool Teachers

Craft clear job descriptions, use thorough hiring steps, offer support, and observe candidates to hire and keep top teachers.

Afterschool Registration Software Guide

Digital registration software for afterschool programs streamlines enrollment, attendance tracking, and compliance reporting for CA funding requirements.

How Attendance Software Supports Afterschool Programs

Afterschool program attendance software streamlines compliance reporting, enhances student safety, and simplifies payment tracking for administrators.

Afterschool Care Software Guide

The right afterschool management software streamlines operations, enhances parent communication, and ensures accurate reporting for grant-funded California programs.

Integrating Aeries SIS with Afterschool Program Software

Integrate Aeries SIS with afterschool software to streamline operations, reduce paperwork, enhance compliance, and improve data security.

Introducing "The Missing Manual for California Afterschool Programs"

Announcing "The Missing Manual for California Afterschool Programs," a comprehensive guide for administrators managing expanded learning.

California's New Attendance Recovery Program: A Comprehensive Guide for Districts

Complete guide to California's new Attendance Recovery program: requirements, implementation, and compliance for the 2025-26 school year

Why Dismantling the U.S. Department of Education Could Strengthen California's Afterschool Programs

How California's afterschool programs could thrive with state control following the Department of Education closure.

A Guide to Preparing for Funding Audits in Schools

How to streamline ELOP and ASES funding audits with best practices for documentation and compliance.

Afterschool Funding in California: A Comparison of ELOP, ASES, and ASSETS

Compare California's key afterschool funding options - ELOP, ASES, and ASSETS - to find the right program for your district's needs.

A Guide to Funding and Compliance for California's Afterschool Programs

Learn how to navigating federal and state funding requirements for afterschool programs while minimizing administrative burden.

What is the 21st CCLC Program?

Federal program funding academic enrichment outside school hours, improving student achievement and engagement in high-need communities.

ELOP Ideas to Shape Your Afterschool Programs

Practical strategies for creating engaging ELOP after-school programs that balance requirements with student interests.

New CALPADS Data Collection Requirements for Expanded Learning Programs: AB 1113 Implementation

New reporting mandates for expanded learning programs begin July 2026. LEAs must track enrollment and attendance data for CALPADS.

How to Use Data to Justify Funding Requests for Afterschool Programs

Learn how to use data effectively to demonstrate program impact and secure funding for your afterschool programs through metrics-based reporting.

What Afterschool Funding Programs are Available for STEM?

Funding STEM afterschool programs in California through federal grants, state resources, and private foundation support.

What are ASES, the Afterschool Education and Safety Program?

California's ASES program funds K-9 afterschool programs, offering up to $163K per school with focus on student enrichment and support.

Measuring Student Engagement in Afterschool Programs

Learn effective methods to measure student engagement in afterschool programs, from key metrics to assessment strategies.

DOGE’s Funding Proposal for Dept. of Education and the Impact on Afterschool Programs

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.

How to Secure ASES Funding for Afterschool Programs

Learn how to secure ASES funding: Requirements, application tips, and program management for K-8 afterschool success

What are ASSETs After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens Programs?

California's ASSETs program: Academic support, enrichment, and family services for high school student success

How to Secure ELOP Funding for Afterschool Programs

Securing ELOP funding: Learn eligibility requirements, program design, and compliance for K-6 afterschool success.

Understanding ELO-P Funding and Allowable Expenses

Learn what expenses are allowed, from staffing and materials to facilities, to enhance K-6 learning programs.

ELOP Ideas to Shape Your Afterschool Programs

Transform after-school programs with student-led learning, life skills development, and community partnerships that meet ELOP requirements.

Good News: Your After-School Programs Can Thrive Under New Executive Orders

Federal orders require parent consent, curriculum changes & new funding rules for CA afterschool programs by Sept 2025.

ELOP: Keeping Your District's Funding

Learn how to maintain ELOP funding eligibility through proper documentation, staff ratios, and strategic program management.

What is ELOP: Expanded Learning Opportunity Program? 

Discover how California's ELOP funding transforms K-12 education through expanded learning programs, enrichment, and student support..

Recognizing Student Achievements in After School Programs

Learn effective strategies to boost student engagement through meaningful recognition, creating a positive after-school environment.

Leveraging Parent Engagement to Boost Student Participation

Learn how to enhance afterschool program participation by implementing effective parent communication and engagement strategies.

Performance Indicators in Afterschool Activities: Measuring What Matters

Discover how to measure afterschool program success using key performance indicators that go beyond basic attendance tracking.

How To Start An Afterschool or Extended Care Program

Learn the essential steps to launch a successful afterschool program, from planning and funding to staffing and compliance.

Using Failure to Teach Leadership Skills in Teens

Failure plays a vital role in teen leadership development, fostering resilience and accountability in supportive settings.

Building Leadership Skills for Teens: A Guide for Afterschool Programs

Afterschool programs build teen leaders through daily practice opportunities, mentorship, and creating safe spaces for learning from mistakes.

Using Data-Driven Insights to Improve Student Engagement

Learn how to leverage attendance data to identify engagement patterns, improve program scheduling, and boost student participation.

Engaging Parents to Increase Student Participation in Afterschool Programs

Learn effective strategies to boost student participation by streamlining parent communication in your after-school program.

Three Examples of Student Voice in After School Programs

Learn how giving students a voice in after-school programs boosts engagement by 45%, turning passive participants into passionate leaders.

Programs to Build Strong Student Relationships

Discover how morning gatherings and social connections boost student performance and create lasting bonds in the classroom.

Are After School Activities Tax Deductible?

Learn which after-school expenses qualify for tax benefits, what documentation parents need, and how to track qualifying costs.

What Directors Need to Know About ELO-P Program Monitoring

Learn about California's ELO-P compliance monitoring process, what to expect, and how to prepare for successful program reviews.

Preparing for the California ELO-P Audit

Learn how to prepare for California ELO-P audits with essential documentation, compliance tips, and program implementation best practices.

Strategies For Marketing After School Programs In 2025

Learn proven marketing strategies to grow your after-school program in 2025, from digital outreach to building community partnerships.

Start and Run an Out-of-School Program: 9 Essential Steps for Success

Learn 9 essential steps to start and run a successful out-of-school program that inspires growth and boosts achievement.

Why Implement Student Choice in Afterschool Programs?

Discover how giving students choice in afterschool activities boosts engagement, attendance, and creates more meaningful learning experiences.

A Data-Driven Look at ELO-P for Program Directors

California's $4B ELO-P investment shows promising results with 97% program expansion and improved student engagement in after-school programs.

Meeting Staffing Requirements for ELOP Funding Compliance

How expanded learning programs maintain required staff-to-student ratios while scaling up operations with ELOP funding support.

Understanding California's 2025 Afterschool Data Reporting Reforms

California's new bill streamlines afterschool program data reporting into CALPADS system, effective 2025, reducing redundant paperwork.

Engaging Students Through Technology in Afterschool Programs

Learn how afterschool programs can leverage technology to create engaging learning experiences while building digital skills.

Innovative Activities to Engage Students in Afterschool Programs

Learn effective strategies for engaging students in afterschool programs through flexible, multi-pathway activities and hands-on learning.

How to Ensure Compliance with California's ASES Program

Requirements, best practices & solutions for after-school programs to maintain compliance & funding in California.

How to Cater to Different Learning Styles in Afterschool Programs

Learn how to design flexible afterschool activities that engage visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing learners simultaneously.

Best Software to Track and Improve Student Engagement in Afterschool Programs

Learn how to select the best student engagement software for your afterschool program's tracking and reporting needs.

How to Choose the Best Afterschool Student Engagement Software

Guide to choosing afterschool program software: evaluate features, costs, and scalability for your program's needs.

Navigating 21st CCLC Compliance for Afterschool Programs

How to meet 21st Century Community Learning Centers requirements and maintain compliance in afterschool programs.

Understanding State and Federal Regulations for Afterschool Programs

Guide to state and federal regulations for afterschool programs, covering compliance, funding, and management strategies.

7 Disadvantages of After School Activities

After school activities offer growth but can cause stress, time constraints, and financial burdens for families.

What Percentage of Students Have After School Activities?

Only 14% of US students join afterschool programs, while 50% want to join. Cost and transportation are key barriers.

7 Benefits of After-School Activities

After-school programs boost academics, develop life skills, and create safe spaces for students to grow and explore new interests.

The Importance of Compliance in Afterschool Programs

Compliance in afterschool programs ensures safety, quality, and funding, fostering student success and community trust.

What is Compliance in Afterschool Programs?

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.

What are After School Activities?

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.

Streamlining ELOP Reporting: Tips and Tools for Program Administrators

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.

Sustainable Practices for Long-Term ELOP Success

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.

The Importance Of Enrichment In School & Best Practices

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.

Maximizing Funding and Streamlining Reporting for California Schools: A Comprehensive Guide with Attendly

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.

The Hidden Costs of Manual Attendance Tracking in After-School Programs

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.

Building Strong Family Engagement in After-School Programs Through Multilingual Digital Communication

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.

Measuring the Long-Term Impact of Extended Learning Programs

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.

Understanding ELO-P - California's After-School Funding Program

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.

California ELOP Grant Application Question Analysis

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.

Expanded Learning Opportunities Programs: A Practical Guide for Directors

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.

Where Expanded Learning Fits In The Case for Educational Equity in K-12

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.

ELO Program Essentials: A Guide for Overwhelmed Site Coordinators

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.

New Trends in Extended Learning Programs

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.

Managing ELOP Requirements

Directors managing ELOP face challenges like staffing ratios, compliance, and attendance tracking. Leveraging tools like Attendly can streamline operations, ensuring efficiency and program quality.

Innovative Approaches for Today's Academic Enrichment Programs

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.

Why OST programs care so much about attendance tracking

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.

Accurate Attendance Tracking for ELOP Funding Reimbursements

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.

Maximizing Impact with Afterschool Management Software That Actually Helps

Guide to choosing afterschool program software that streamlines attendance, communication, and enrollment management tasks.

Understanding the ELOP Funding Formula

This guide explains California's ELOP funding formula, helping school districts plan and allocate resources for expanded learning programs. Key factors include ADA and UPP.