About SSEL

Through the regional system of support, 16 County Offices of Education across 11 service regions, as designated by the California County Superintendents, receive funding to build the capacity of EXLPs. These efforts include developing peer networks, coaching, mentoring, resource brokering, consultation, facilitation and professional learning opportunities all designed to create effective and high-quality programs.

The California Department of Education Expanded Learning Division (EXLD) oversees SSEL and provides technical assistance funding, including ongoing, needs-driven support for After School Education and Safety (ASES) and 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC). This technical assistance model is grounded in California Education Code Section 8483.55 and Title 20 U.S.C. Section 7172(c)(3), which established the regional system of support to ensure equitable, field-based assistance.

The regional County Offices of Education (COEs) operate as part of the Statewide System of Field Support, serving local before school, after school and summer learning programs. Several regions such as Regions 7, 9 and 10 have multiple regional leads to address the unique needs of their counties. As of 2019, there are 16 regional COEs supporting expanded learning across California.

• SSEL members include:
  •  CDE Expanded Learning Division Staff: Education Consultants, Fiscal Analysts, Managers and Administrative Staff
  • County Leads & Staff: including STEM Hub staff
  • Contracted Technical Assistant Providers: such as the California Afterschool Network (CAN) and ASAP Connect