LAUSD Prioritizes Academic Support and Enrichment in Free After-School Programs
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is emphasizing academic support and enrichment activities in its free after-school programs. According to Ana Estevez, executive director of Beyond the Bell, the department overseeing these programs, a key priority is providing homework help and high-dose tutoring from educators. Estevez highlighted that program leaders collaborate with principals to ensure after-school learning complements the regular school day without being repetitive, aiming for engaging and fun experiences for students. These programs also offer enrichment opportunities such as arts, robotics, STEM activities, and recreation like sports. LAUSD's after-school programs are free for families and are funded through a combination of federal and state dollars, including the $4.6 billion-a-year Expanded Learning Opportunities program (ELOP) established in 2021 by Governor Gavin Newsom. The district directly runs some programs and partners with other organizations to offer additional options, se... 
