California AfterSchool Network Honors Expanded Learning Leaders at 2025 Lights On Afterschool Awards

On October 23, the California AfterSchool Network (CAN), a collaborative impact partner of FoundationCCC, hosted its annual Lights on Afterschool Leadership Awards to honor educators and program leaders advancing learning across California.

In partnership with the California Department of Education and the System of Support for Expanded Learning, the event brought together programs, kids, families, and community leaders from across the country to celebrate the impact of afterschool and summer programs on student success, community engagement, and educational equity. 

The program featured reflections from educators and leaders whose work has shaped student experiences through expanded learning. As a national leader in Expanded Learning, California showcased stories ranging from students discovering new interests in STEM and the arts to site coordinators building safe, inclusive spaces where young people feel seen and supported. 

“Today, we’re shining the light on you—our amazing leaders whose passion, dedication, and vision make expanded learning thrive across California. You are the mentors and champions who inspire our students and strengthen our communities every single day. Expanded learning is an essential part of our educational system. These programs extend learning beyond the school day, surrounding students with caring mentors and transformational experiences that truly change lives. Every day, expanded learning leaders foster belonging, creativity, collaboration, imagination, and critical thinking.” — Erika Torres, Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction, California Department of Education

Awardees were recognized for their leadership in creating student-centered programs that foster belonging, resilience, and achievement. Each honoree reflected the values at the core of CAN’s mission: equity, collaboration, and continuous learning. Leaders such as Bobbie Wion of Redding School District shared insights and encouragement for future leaders:

“Lead with love. Each of these kids that we meet has their own story. And sometimes what they need most isn’t a lesson or a plan, it’s to know that somebody cares, that somebody wants to listen to them, believe in them, and show up for them day after day. It’s also helping us grow as leaders. We have to stay curious. We have to keep learning.”

FoundationCCC collaborates with CAN to expand access to high-quality afterschool and summer learning opportunities. Together, we are building systems that reduce barriers and accelerate paths to economic and social mobility for all Californians. This work directly supports the goals of Vision 2030, which calls for deeper cross-sector partnerships to improve student outcomes and build more equitable communities. 

Learn more about the California AfterSchool Network >