Program Evaluation: Examining 21st-Century Learning Centers' Efforts to Provide All-Day Kindergarten Programming to Address Achievement Gaps

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 59
  In Roundtable Session: Studies That Highlight Essential Features of Approaches and Programs for Reducing Achievement Gaps: Lessons From All-Day Kindergarten, Teacher Leadership, Early College, Gifted Education, and Alternative Programs

Abstract

Program evaluations from multiple districts using 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) grants were studied to identify indicators of effective practices related to the implementation of grant-funded all-day kindergarten. Research shows that participation in high-quality out-of-school time (OST) programs like 21st Century Learning Centers help to close the achievement gap, have positive long-term effects on school attendance and task persistence, have positive effects on school grades and academic work habits, and improves achievement test scores (Durlak & Weissberg, 2007; Vandell, 2013). This study provides evidence in understanding the impact of 21st Century Community Learning Centers in addressing underlying causes of achievement gaps and access to quality early childhood education.

Author

• Heather P. Williams, Boise State University