Programs   Several major trends have taken place in communities across our nation over the last few years that have resulted in a more important focus and priority upon before and after school programs. The growing demand in almost every community for quality childcare, safe places for children and youth at the end of the school day, expanded learning, enrichment and recreational opportunities has not only added pressure on our communities and schools but has moved the topic of quality before and after school programs up on the educational agenda. These growing needs and demands are forcing us to redefine the traditional school day in order to better meet the needs of students, parents and communities. Recognizing the great benefits of after school programs and drastic need for them district-wide, the Los Angeles Unified School District created the Beyond the Bell Branch (BTB). The BTB Branch was charged with operating quality after-school programs in every elementary and middle school by 2005. In our effort to meet this mandate, BTB meets and works with many segments of the Los Angeles community to seek information, input, ideas, concerns, and more specifically, to identify critical issues that must be addressed to ensure quality programs district-wide. It is our goal to continue to engage the leadership of our Local Districts and the greater Los Angeles community to ensure that the plan brought forward is comprehensive, inclusive and doable.		EN ESPAÑOL
				• Quality Standards