Expanded Learning Program
“Expanded learning” refers to after-school, intersession, or summer learning programs that focus on developing the academic, social, emotional, and physical needs and interests of students through hands-on, engaging learning experiences. Stone Bridge School maintains its Expanded Learning Program in accordance with California Department of Education guidelines and requirements.
During calendared school days, our Expanded Learning Program is held in conjunction with our Aftercare program, open from 12:30 - 5:30 pm, and available to students in all grades. The Program is also available for full days during the calendared February and spring breaks, as well as during summer break.
Held on the SBS campus and staffed by qualified school personnel, our Expanded Learning Program includes the following elements:
- Nourishing snacks and/or meals consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, organic whenever possible, and made fresh daily. The children help with the preparation and serving of these foods, acquiring skills and a sense of community.
- Physical activity includes lots of outdoor time for open-ended imaginative play or activities using a wide variety of sports equipment.
- Crafts and projects are an important element of our program and the "open studio" environment gives children access to many materials and inspiration for creative expression. Possibilities include sewing, weaving, painting, multi-media constructions, and more.
- Story time is held daily, and a wide variety of books are also available for independent readers to explore different authors and topics.
- Science is explored in multiple ways, such as caring for native caterpillars, tending plants in the raised beds, exploring the chemistry of cooking, or a host of other possible STEM activities (e.g., water rockets, magna blocks, etc).
- Leadership opportunities present themselves daily, especially given our multi-age program where older students take on the role of modeling skills and helping the younger children. A family-like atmosphere is nurtured in which all are invited to pitch in and contribute their unique strengths.
- Academic support is available, whether simply a quiet space to work on homework or assistance with academic content.
- Safety is of paramount importance. Children are supervised with a minimum 1:12 staff to student ratio. Staff are live-scanned and appropriately trained before working with children. They are also chosen for their experience and aptitude for supporting children, including personal qualities of warmth, patience, and enthusiasm.