IUSD board waives second reading, approves Expanded Learning Opportunities Program policy

The Irvine Unified School District Board waived a second reading and approved proposed Board Policy 5148.2, implementing the state-funded Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) and setting a three-year evaluation cycle.

Stan presented the policy and described program details, including that "it's almost close to 5,000 students are being served in ELOP," and that the program is currently implemented at all district schools. He explained eligible services include at least 30 non-instructional days outside the regular school year and that the policy includes language to allow flexibility in the event of funding changes. Stan said the district will conduct an evaluation in the 2025-26 school year as required and will follow state guidelines for assessment while also measuring Irvine-specific program outcomes.

Trustees asked clarifying questions about how the district measures economic disadvantage (free and reduced-price meal eligibility is one measure among others such as foster youth and homelessness), whether administrative regulations (ARs) would spell out provider expectations, and how the district will assess outcomes for English language learners and parent engagement. Stan said ARs and vendor compliance language exist from procurement and can be incorporated; he described planned assessment activity beginning in January through spring to analyze program effectiveness.

A trustee moved to waive the second reading and approve the policy on first reading; the motion passed by voice vote.