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Our blog features ExpandED staff and other contributors describing the latest efforts to ensure that every young person thrives and how we’re building a robust system of K–12 afterschool in New York City.

Brooklyn Book Bodega, ExpandED Schools, and Reading Partners Launch Free Literacy Workshops and Book Giveaways for Families
BROOKLYN, NY—Brooklyn Book Bodega, ExpandED Schools, and Reading Partners have partnered to host a series of free virtual workshops and “Big Book Parties” designed to support literacy at home through the NYC Reads Initiative. This collaboration aligns with the broader goals of the NYC Reads Initiative to enhance literacy culture and help more children enter school ready to learn. Through

Inside a Bronx School Where Relationships Power Academic Recovery
Educator fostering confidence, curiosity, and growth through risk-taking and reflection. By Andrew Fox, D12 & 19 High-Impact Tutoring Program Manager Being a student is hard work. In fact, it is a full-time job that requires dedication and determination to succeed. Unfortunately, not every student is set up with the tools they need in order to thrive in their academic environment. As

Funder Spotlight: Randy Nelson
Randy is our 2026 honoree and a longtime board member whose support has strengthened our work for years. This Q&A offers a glimpse into what drives his commitment to New York City’s young people. Q&A Q: You have been a dedicated supporter and board member of ExpandED Schools for many years. How did you first learn about our organization, and

Funder Spotlight: The Carmell Hill Fund
Itai Dinour, Executive Director of the Carmel Hill Fund, discusses our collaboration on the NYC Reads Initiative and our shared commitment to advancing literacy. Q&A Q: How did your path lead you to the Carmel Hill Fund, and what influenced your decision to contribute to its mission of helping young people become voracious readers? A: I’ve been fortunate to spend

When Afterschool Leaders Come Together, Young People Thrive
By Natalie Colón At ExpandED Schools, we are fortunate to support a wide range of afterschool programs throughout New York City. Some are large, multi-site nonprofits, while others are smaller, grassroots organizations rooted in their communities. Despite their size, they all share one mission: creating spaces where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. Last month, 61 afterschool site leaders—representing
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Brooklyn Book Bodega, ExpandED Schools, and Reading Partners Launch Free Literacy Workshops and Book Giveaways for Families
BROOKLYN, NY—Brooklyn Book Bodega, ExpandED Schools, and Reading Partners have partnered to host a series of free virtual workshops and “Big Book Parties” designed to support literacy at home through the NYC Reads Initiative. This collaboration aligns with the broader goals of the NYC Reads Initiative to enhance literacy culture and help more children enter school ready to learn. Through

After years of debate, high-impact tutoring gains ground in Albany
By: MADINA TOURÉ NEW YORK — New York is getting close to implementing an intensive tutoring program aimed at boosting reading and math performance, following a yearslong effort to bring it to fruition. Gov. Kathy Hochul earmarked $9 million in funding exclusively for high-impact tutoring for students in high-need districts in her $260 billion executive budget proposal introduced last month.

Celebrating School-Community Partnerships: ExpandED Schools’ 2024 Spring Gala
Last night was a memorable evening as we came together for our spring gala, joined by over 200 education and equity champions. The theme of this year’s gala was School-Community Partnerships, chosen to highlight the pivotal role these collaborations play in expanding the resources and support available for students beyond the classroom.

Celebrating Literacy: The Roger Blissett Learning Library Book Bundle
It brings us great joy to share that the Roger Blissett Learning Library book sets are now accessible to students and educators, a tribute to our esteemed board member and honoree at our 25th Anniversary Gala, Roger Blissett. In honor of his dedication, we’ve donated 25 book bundles to local schools. Each library features four books, a lesson plan, and

ExpandED Schools Promotes Candace Brazier-Thurman to Chief Operating Officer
Candace Brazier-Thurman NEW YORK CITY, April 15, 2024 – ExpandED Schools, the largest intermediary nonprofit in New York City exclusively focused on advancing educational equity and delivering full-scale learning and development opportunities to students and educators, is pleased to announce the promotion of Candace Brazier-Thurman to the position of Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. In her new role, Brazier-Thurman will
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Strengthening Youth Career Pathways for an Affordable New York City
Strengthening Youth Career Pathways for an Affordable New York City

Inclusive Educator Pathways: Educator Training in New York City—A Landscape Analysis
Inclusive Educator Pathways: Educator Training in New York City—A Landscape Analysis
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