Executive Viewpoint

BEYOND THE BELL: EXTENDING LEARNING, STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES

Dr. Megan Duncan, AAEA Executive Director

Some of the most meaningful learning happens before or after school for our children. Time spent on the football field or basketball court where a coach serves as a mentor. In a school library during times where children need additional support. In the cafeteria at family literacy night or a community center where high school students partner to teach younger students.

Across Arkansas, educators understand that school doesn’t end at 3:30 p.m. It is ongoing for students, families, and the communities we serve. As leaders, we are constantly reimagining the role of schools in ways that better serve our children and families.

Extended learning opportunities, after-school programs, tutoring, summer learning, and internships are no longer considered the above and beyond, they serve as lifelines. Especially for children who need more time, more attention, and more opportunity. These experiences do more than improve test scores. They build relationships. They provide belonging. They keep children safe. They help to connect learning and bring it to life. For our working families, it provides a sense of peace knowing their children are cared for in a supportive environment.

Partnership Is the New Playbook

The best extended learning programs are powered by strong partnerships. Community-based organizations, local businesses, faith groups, libraries, and city departments are stepping up to cocreate solutions with school leaders. Education leaders are reimagining learning possibilities like transforming buses to be repurposed as mobile learning labs, libraries, or provide dental care. In other areas of the state, students are gaining work experience through paid apprenticeships. It’s not one-sizefits-all. It’s responsive, local, and centered on the needs of each child.

When schools welcome families as partners in learning, the entire community benefits. Whether through parent academies, financial literacy nights, or cooking classes that double as language support, we can create spaces where families grow alongside their children. These efforts show families: You belong here. You matter. And we’re in this together.

Leading With Heart

As school leaders, we have the privilege and the responsibility to build ecosystems of support beyond the bell. Yes, it takes resources. Yes, it takes coordination. And most of all, it takes vision. Let’s lead with heart. When we provide connections for our students we build on the trust, connection, and plan for the next generation.