Learning Beyond Paper has announced the official launch of Learning Beyond the Bell, a fully digital, bilingual curriculum platform built specifically for afterschool, out-of-school time (OST) and camp programmes serving students aged five to 12.
Developed by the educator-led team behind Learning Beyond Paper, a platform trusted by more than 100,000 teachers, administrators and families nationwide, Learning Beyond the Bell extends that same mission into the hours after the school day ends.
Learning tools designed for afterschool programmes
Afterschool environments are dynamic. Programmes frequently operate with flexible schedules, mixed-age groups and staff members who care deeply about children but may not have formal teaching backgrounds.
Learning Beyond the Bell was designed with those realities in mind.
The platform delivers project-based, play-centred activities across six learning domains:
• Creative Arts and Expression
• STEAM
• Language and Literacy
• Physical Play and Wellness
• Social Studies and Civic Engagement
• Soft Skills and Life Skills
All curriculum content is fully bilingual in English and Spanish.
Professional learning is embedded through Learning Beyond University, allowing staff members to deliver high-quality programming from their first day, regardless of experience level.
Programmes can implement Learning Beyond the Bell immediately. The platform is fully digital, accessible from any device and requires no printing or specialised hardware. Many programmes can begin using the curriculum the same day they enrol.
Teachers using Learning Beyond Paper platforms report saving an average of three hours per week on lesson planning. A straightforward pricing model eliminates hidden costs, printing expenses and unexpected fees.
Built by educators, for educators
Learning Beyond the Bell was developed by a team with more than 300 years of combined experience in early childhood and elementary education. The team includes former Department of Education leaders, Early Learning Coalition Directors and classroom teachers.
Each activity and professional learning resource was designed for the real conditions of out-of-school time programmes. These conditions include flexible schedules, mixed-age groups and staff members who need to implement programming quickly.
The result is a curriculum grounded in classroom experience and shaped by the voices of educators who understand afterschool programmes.
Peter Smith, CEO and President, Learning Beyond Paper, said: “Afterschool programmes play an important role in advancing educational opportunity, yet they have historically lacked dedicated curriculum resources. These programmes are not simply childcare. They are learning environments that deserve tools designed specifically for their needs.”
“We did not convert a paper curriculum into a digital format. We built something new that works within the realities of out-of-school time programmes. At the same time, we maintained the bilingual support and professional learning educators expect from Learning Beyond Paper.
“We encourage programme directors to experience the platform firsthand by scheduling a demonstration and seeing how a curriculum designed for their environment can support afterschool learning.”
