Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs) are hands-on, credit-bearing experiences outside of the traditional classroom with an emphasis on community-based career exploration. They are highly personalized opportunities for students to engage in learning in ways that make sense for them and connect their learning to everyday life in meaningful ways. ELOs are a unique mix of academic instruction and assignments, such as papers and presentations, and combine experiential learning components like project-based learning, internships, and job shadows.
Outside the Classroom
The basis of an ELO is that it is a personalized experience that is done in a non-traditional way. Any experience that happens exclusively in a classroom context—while valuable—is not a true ELO.
Credit Bearing
What sets ELO opportunities apart from traditional enrichment options (clubs, sports, etc.) is that they are designed as credit-bearing options. This requirement is important to increasing equity in our schools.
Community Based
ELOs require the support of local communities and are designed to highlight local expertise, expose students to career options in their communities, and offer real-life application of student learning.
For more information about the Extended Learning Opportunities Program,
please contact Mrs. Sanborn!
Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) is a program supported by the Maine Department of Education and within the Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG) educational nonprofit organization.
