Dr. Terry K. Peterson and Dr. Deborah Lowe Vandell teamed up to highlight the evidence base that shows well-designed and well-delivered summer enrichment and comprehensive afterschool can address “learning loss,” accelerate learning and expand opportunities for student success. 

The findings are part of extensive research- and evidence-based that supports local and state leaders’ efforts to address learning loss and acceleration by investing ESSER III and other funds to expand access, as called out in the law, for “summer learning or summer enrichment” and/ or “comprehensive afterschool programs” and to improve existing opportunities in high-need neighborhoods and schools. 

In the conclusion of this report, Dr. Peterson and Dr. Vandell state unequivocally that investing in well-designed and well-delivered summer enrichment and comprehensive afterschool with ESSER III and other funds matches the intent of the American Rescue Plan.

This report will provide valuable background as K-12 and OST educators work with their state department of education and local education agencies. It is recommended to reference it as a definitive source that the evidence base exists to allow educators space to make the case for proposals and big ideas!