Extended Learning Opportunities

The NH Department of Education supports and encourages local school districts to adopt policies that encourage 'extended learning'. Extended learning means: the primary acquisition of knowledge and skills through instruction or study outside of the traditional classroom methodology, including, but not limited, to

• Apprenticeships
• Community service
• Independent study
• Online courses
• Internships
• Performing groups
• Private instruction

Department Comment: The local school board is required to adopt and implement written policies and procedures relative to extended learning if the district plans to offer extended learning opportunities, as per Ed 306.27(b)(4) . The local district's policy may define whether extended learning opportunities are offered in wide variety, in limited options, or not at all. The design of these rules gives School Boards and Districts permission to be flexible and creative in the way schools award credits to students for learning in a variety of settings. Technical Advisory #12 gives further guidance on Extended Learning Opportunities.

General information about extended learning:

• offering ELO is optional for school districts, but if offered, must be avaiable to all students
• developing a district level policy on ELO is required per Ed 306.27(b)(4)
• any/all activities are eligible for ELO learning if they meet the requires of ED 306.27(b)(4); school district policy defines which the district will approve
• ELO learning may be offered in any course area; school district policy defines which areas the district will approve
• ELOs must be pre-approved by the school before beginning
• certified school personnel must authorize and oversee the ELO and the awarding of credit
• credit for ELO must be based on student demonstration of mastery of rigorous, measurable course level competencies
• It is the purview of the local school district to identify/develop course level competencies, decide on appropriate competency assessment methods, and identifying necessary and sufficient evidence for students to demonstrate mastery
• ELO may provide credit for all or some of a core course

ECS Presentation on Competencies and ELOs	Frequently Asked Questions
Final Report of Evaluation Findings	Highlights of the New Hampshire Extended Learning Opportunities (NH ELO) Initiative (If you save this powerpoint to your computer you will be able to view the notes pages that go with each slide.)
Four Components of A Rigorous ELO	Supporting Student Success Through Extended Learning Opportunities

Microsoft PowerPoint format. You can download a free reader from Microsoft