Think Together will introduce afterschool and expanded learning initiatives at 13 elementary schools starting in the 2026-2027 academic year.

, /PRNewswire/ -- Think Together, California's leading nonprofit provider of expanded learning services and a division of Think Education, is pleased to reveal a fresh partnership with Santa Maria-Bonita School District set to begin in the 2026-2027 academic year. This move will broaden opportunities for high-quality expanded learning programs serving students and families throughout the Central Coast.

Beginning this fall, Think Together will deliver after-school activities at 13 campuses, generating close to 100 new full- and part-time education positions. These roles will ensure students enjoy a secure and stimulating setting after regular hours, featuring academic assistance, enrichment activities, physical exercise, and positive youth development at no expense to families.

"We look forward to teaming up with Santa Maria-Bonita School District and becoming an integral part of this vibrant community," noted Katy Wallace, Director of District Partnerships at Think Together. "Our focus is on fostering solid connections with students, families, school personnel, and local residents while designing programs aligned with the district's goals and tailored to the specific requirements of Santa Maria students. We have already received an enthusiastic reception from families, district administrators, and school teams. We anticipate a successful inaugural year."

Ahead of the program rollout, Think Together personnel engaged with families and community members at area gatherings, such as a community fair at Arellanes Junior High and an open house at Taylor Elementary School. These sessions enabled families to gain insights into the forthcoming programs, pose inquiries, and connect with staff prior to the autumn start.

"Santa Maria-Bonita School District remains dedicated to offering enriching experiences that foster the academic and social-emotional development of our students outside regular class time," stated Superintendent Dr. Darren McDuffie of Santa Maria-Bonita School District. "We anticipate collaborating with Think Together to increase access to compelling after-school activities that support our students and families."

The alliance forms part of the district's wider expanded learning initiatives aimed at advancing student achievement and delivering valuable chances for students to learn, develop, and succeed after school.

After a thorough review process, district officials chose Think Together due to the organization's proven track record in delivering high-quality expanded learning programs in areas with comparable student demographics and requirements.

"We dedicated time to observing programs and witnessing the efforts directly in communities that share many of the same assets, difficulties, and diverse cultural elements as Santa Maria," explained Laurie Graack, Director of Teaching and Learning Supplemental Programs for Santa Maria-Bonita School District. "The standout features included robust student involvement, nurturing educational settings, and the organization's dedication to close collaboration with schools and families to address the distinct needs of every community."

The collaboration with Santa Maria-Bonita School District underscores Think Together's ongoing expansion throughout California, especially in the Central Valley, Central Coast, and Bay Area areas. In recent times, Think Together has grown its district partnerships from Santa Barbara County to Sacramento County, encompassing fresh alliances in the Central Valley and Northern California.

About Think Together

Over more than 25 years, Think Together has worked alongside schools and communities to advance educational access and achievement for every child. As a division of Think Education, Think Together develops, executes, and expands academic approaches that improve outcomes for hundreds of thousands of California students annually. Think Education's focus areas encompass early learning, afterschool initiatives, staffing support, school enhancement, and leadership training for educators and administrators.

For additional details, contact (888) 485-THINK.

SOURCE Think Together