Communication Initiative -
Bridging Early Childhood/K-12/Out-of-School Time

In May 2008, the Minnesota Afterschool Summit, sponsored by the Department of Education, Governor
Pawlenty’s Office and several key stakeholders, brought together business leaders, educators, public
safety representatives and funders to make the case that high-quality afterschool learning opportunities
are essential for all children and youth as they learn, grow and develop. One important outcome of the
event was a call from participants in the education and business communities to use common language
and messages to discuss how classroom and out-of-school time learning opportunities complement one
another.

Youth Community Connections, Minnesota’s Statewide Afterschool Alliance (YCC) in partnership with
The Sheltering Arms Foundation and Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP)
agreed to pilot a project to develop a clear, engaging story that builds support for a continuum of high
quality learning opportunities in Minnesota for children and youth ages 0 to 21. Stakeholders
representing early childhood education, K-12 and out-of-school time have worked together over the past
several months to identify messages that link, bridge or connect these learning experiences and
opportunities into one common story. Action Media has provided consultation on this effort with financial
support from the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

• Purpose Statement
  
• Agenda
• Communication Framing Memo
• Meeting Summary