A group of students explored winter biology, spending a weekend camping in rural Vermont.

A student applies trigonometry to metal fabrication design.

Chris researched the Underground Railroad, focusing on the use of quilting patterns as a secret mode of communication.

Students on expeditionary ELOs spend weeks in the wild while journaling, creating nature labs, and participating in rigorous physical activities.

Each ELO ends with a presentation on learning, where students explain their new skills and knowledge, how they grew in the process, and ultimately how they discovered more about themselves as learners.

You Can Create an
Extended Learning Opportunity!

5/17/12 We are currently updating this site. Over the next few weeks you will see a new home page and several more tools!

This website is written for New Hampshire educators who are ready to explore student learning outside the traditional classroom. Here you’ll find information, tools, and resources to help you understand what Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs) are, how they work, and how you can get started in your school.

The New Hampshire Department of Education supports and encourages local school districts to adopt policies that encourage “extended learning.” They define extended learning as “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

The vision of the New Hampshire State Board of Education is to harness community resources and technology to provide a world-class, personalized, student-centered education in a flexible, innovative learning environment that promotes active engagement to maximize the potential in every individual.  Extended Learning Opportunities are a great tool in this endeavor.

This website was developed at Keene State College through a partnership of educators passionate about supporting the implementation of ELOs in New Hampshire. It’s a place to learn the rules and explore best practices, recommendations, and ideas from around the state. Dive in!