Petaluma City Schools staff told the board on Nov. 18 that state allocations for the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) were reduced by roughly $613,000 compared with the prior year — a shortfall that forced the district to cap enrollment at some after‑school sites.

Presenter (S15) said current contracts total about $1.5 million while the initial ELOP allocation was about $1.3 million, leaving a funding gap that required immediate adjustments. Staff reported applying for two rounds of additional ACES funding (about $300,000 targeted to McKinley and McDowell) and submitted over $800,000 in applications for new ACES site funding. The state also approved an increase in per‑student ELOP allocation from $1,280 to $1,575, but staff cautioned those funds are not yet in hand and should not be relied on for immediate cash flow.

On programming, expanded‑learning coordinators reported summer 2025 programming at McDowell (in partnership with Boys & Girls Club) served 247 students (a 17% increase from 2024), provided transportation and food, and included morning academic 'brain gain' modules and afternoon enrichment. Staff presented parent‑survey results showing high satisfaction (96% would re‑enroll, 93% would recommend) and a small sample analysis (60 attendees vs. 248 non‑attendees) using STAR Reading measures that showed larger scaled‑score and percentile improvements for attendees; staff characterized the results as promising but noted the sample size and selection method.

Why it matters: After‑school and summer programs provide academic support and enrichment for unduplicated students. Cuts to ELOP allocations forced caps on enrollment this year and risk limiting access if additional funds are not secured.

What’s next: Staff will continue pursuing state grant rounds and adjust enrollment caps as funding permits. They plan earlier enrollment windows and to leverage new literacy screening (MCAS/DIBELS) for priority outreach to TK–2 families.