CAN Policy Newsletter – Kick off 2024 with Advocacy!
January 19, 2024

Policy Newsletter
Sketch of justice woman with blind fold holding a justice scale

Welcome to CAN’s policy newsletter, where we will share state and federal updates, resources, webinars, events, and more to keep you up-to-date and well-informed! We are excited to re-launch this exciting resource this year.

January kicks off a flurry of policy activity as the Governor’s budget proposal must be released each year by January 10th. This year’s proposal protects all Expanded Learning funding at current levels, despite a challenging budget year. Check out the resources below to learn more, and how you can get involved!

CAN is also excited to release our first-ever Policy Framework! This framework sets a high-level, long-term vision that guides CAN’s annual priorities for advocacy and policy efforts. The goals outlined in this framework cannot be achieved by any organization alone. CAN looks forward to partnering with others across multiple sectors to advance this bold vision. Learn more below.

We recognize those most impacted by policy work are often the least likely to be engaged in the decision-making processes. We strive to build capacity and ensure access to advocacy opportunities for all members of our communities to advance policies that ensure we all thrive. If this resonates with you, please join us by sharing our newsletter and resources with your team and community!

Here are a few policy resources to get familiar with to kick off 2024:

In This Newsletter:

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Image of CAN's three policy framework pillars

CAN’s New Policy Framework
A Long-Term Vision to Guide Annual Priorities

We’re excited to share CAN’s Policy Framework

CAN believes the Out-of-School-Time (OST) field, including Expanded Learning, plays an essential role in advancing the health and well-being of every child. To achieve this, CAN and our partners focus on fundamentally redesigning systems to expand access to high-quality programs, support and nurture our workforce, and strengthen and align resources for children, families, and communities. We advocate for policy changes that address the root causes of inequity and create a more just and equitable landscape for all children and youth.

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California For All logo

We Commend Governor Newsom’s Commitment to Expanded Learning
January 2024 Proposed Budget

We commend the Governor for his continued dedication to transformative investments in public education in the 2024 January budget, in particular, the investments into Expanded Learning, despite California facing a significant budget deficit. At CAN, we envision compassionate communities collaborating with Expanded Learning/Out-of-School Time (OST) programs to support whole children, families, and communities so that every young person and every family is well-known, well-cared for, and prepared to thrive.

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20th Annual Afterschool & Summer Challenge March 11th-12th flyer with image of capitol

CA Afterschool & Summer Challenge – Register Today!
March 11-12, 2024

Registration is now open for the 20th Annual California Afterschool and Summer Challenge!

The Challenge is a fantastic opportunity for staff, students, parents, and community members to practice civic engagement and youth voice leadership. Join us and hundreds of advocates across the state to share your story with elected officials in Sacramento!

Click here for more event details

Get ready for the Challenge with the Challenge Webinar Series!