When you walk through the halls of Esparto’s elementary and middle schools after hours, you’re greeted not by quiet, empty corridors, but by the lively sounds of music, laughter, and conversation. Classrooms buzz with activities like dance, robotics, ukuleles, space exploration, and academic support, transforming after-school hours into a vibrant extension of the school day.

The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) Region 3 Regional Transformational Assistance Center (R-TAC) is supporting LEAs that have Community Schools implementation grants and Expanded Learning programs. They recently teamed up with Ethical Narrative and Esparto School District to create a short video to showcase the impact of braiding and blending funding streams.

From Dr. Navdeep Purewal, Director of Community Schools Initiatives at R-TAC: ”The Esparto’s after-school program exemplifies how expanded learning opportunities can uplift and unite a community. This dynamic initiative showcases the incredible outcomes when a community collaborates to nurture and support student growth. In October, participants in the Study Tour experienced this transformation firsthand hearing directly from students, families, educators, and community members about the unique environment Esparto has cultivated. The experience is beautifully captured in the video linked below, illustrating how the school and district have strategically leveraged diverse funding sources and community partnerships to create a program that goes far beyond childcare.

With 80% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch and a significant number of migrant families, Esparto has embraced the principles of Community Schools and Expanded Learning to meet unmet needs, foster a love of learning, and ensure every child has a safe and joyful place to thrive.

As Sherrie Vann, Director of the program, aptly says: “This isn’t just a program; it’s a community.”"