Expanding the Learning, Expanding the Fun
Before school, after school, and during intersessions—learning never stops.
Our Daily Program
Catalyst ExpandEd Learning programs extend the school day to 9 hours with before and after-school programming, and additionally operate for at least 30 days during summer and intersession periods.
Five Main Components of Each Day
Tailored Support for Every Individual
Students begin with community circle and SEL activities that build confidence and connection.
Homework Support
Time for homework, plus academic games, arts, and STEM tied to Common Core.
Discovery Time
Student choice activities like dramatic play, art, and tinkering encourage independence.
Core Enrichments
Group projects develop 21st Century skills like communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.
Snack
Daily healthy snacks promote wellness and good habits.
Expanding Learning, Enriching Minds
Programs tailored to every developmental stage.
Our instructors collaborate with school staff to align programming to meet students’ academic and emotional needs.
Discovery, Literacy, and Fun
Focus
- Early Literacy
- Social-Emotional Learning
- Creative Exploration
Activities
- Vocabulary-Building
- Story-Based Play
- Music & Movement
- Arts & Crafts
Goals
- Encourage Self-Expression
- Strengthen Listening Skills
- Build a Nurturing, Structured Environment
Creativity, Confidence, and Skill Building
Focus
- Literacy
- Critical Thinking
- Creativity
- Independence
Activities
- STEM Challenges
- Hands-on Art
- Music
- Physical Activities
- Guided Homework Help
Goals
- Build Confidence
- Spark Curiosity
- Strengthen Academic and social-emotional skills
Collaboration, Communication, and Leadership
Focus
- 21st Century Skills
- Student Voice
- Peer Leadership
Activities
- Group Projects
- STEM & Creative Challenges
- Student-Led Activities
Goals
- Practice Leadership
- Reinforce Classroom Learning
- Expand Horizons Through Interest-Based Experiences
Trust, Connection, and Responsibility
Focus
- Belonging
- Peer Support
- Independence
Activities
- Community-Building Circles
- Collaborative Planning
- Interest-Led Projects
Goals
- Build Trusting Relationships
- Foster Ownership of Learning
- Create a Supportive, Inclusive Environment
Exploration, Self-Esteem, Creativity, and Imagination
Focus
- Executive Function
- Curiosity
- Cross-Curricular Enrichment
Activities
- STEM & History
- Sports & Recreation
- Art & Design
Goals
- Promote Self-Esteem
- Strengthen Problem-Solving
- Encourage Planning, Focus & Flexibility
Program Highlights
School Day
Extends to 9 hours
Curriculum
Includes educational, literacy, and enrichment elements
Instructor-to-student ratios
- 1:10 for TK and kindergarten
- 1:20 for grades 1 through 8
California quality standards
- Ensures a safe and supportive environment
- Provides active and engaged learning
- Encourages skill building through enriching activities
Calendar
Spans 180 school days + 30 intersession days
Leadership
Amplifies youth voice and student leadership
Healthy choices
Reinforces positive choices and behaviors
Inclusion
Advances diversity, access, and equity
For Families
Connect With Your Local Program Leader
Center Joint Unified
School District
Jennifer Maidl, Supervisor
jmaidl@catalystexpandedlearning.org
Dixon Unified
School District
Marisol Feliz Marquez, Supervisor
mfelizmarquez@catalystexpandedlearning.org
Hueneme Elementary
School District
Jennifer Escamilla, Manager
jescamilla@catalystkids.org
Irvine Unified
School District
Edith Toledo, Manager
etoledo@catalystexpandedlearning.org
Redwood City
School District
Sonia Villa, Supervisor
svilla@catalystexpandedlearning.org
River Delta Unified
School District
Stephan Koochou, Manager
skoochou@catalystexpandedlearning.org
Rocklin Unified
School District
Michael Landers, Manager
mlanders@catalystexpandedlearning.org
Tustin Unified
School District
Alondra Martinez, Manager
amartinez2@catalystexpandedlearning.org
Ventura Unified
School District
Robin O’Toole, Manager
rtoole@catalystkids.org
About Our Nonprofit
Catalyst Family Inc. is a nonprofit organization that fulfills its mission through Catalyst Kids, Catalyst Community, Catalyst Camps, and Catalyst ExpandEd Learning—each a core branch dedicated to supporting children, families, and communities.