Extras for Creative Learning, a nonprofit, 501 (c)(3) organization, was originally founded in 1979 as The Institute for Self-Active Learning by artist/educator, Dr. Walter Drew. Dr. Drew, initially inspired by observing African artisans transform simple materials into powerful art, started the organization in a crowded closet with very limited financial resources. Also known by many as the Boston Public Schools Recycle Center, the organization was the first of its kind in New England. Dr. Drewinfluenced thedevelopment ofother educational recycling centers in Massachusetts, Maine and Rhode Island, with the focus of cultivating ones sense of learning and exploration through the use of found objects.
ExCL annually collects and distributes for reuse, more than 65 tons of creative teaching materials to 1,000+ teachers and pre / after school providers who help over 70,000 children to learn on a daily basis. The use of reclaimed materials obtained through ExCL enables teachers and early educators andprogram providersto help kids realize their creative abilities while experiencing art, science, social studies and language arts through interactive means. Some of our materials can be seen in the work prepared by our valued 700+ BPS teacher members,andprograms such as ABCD Headstart, First Night, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and Spontaneous Celebrations.
ExCL provides unique services that include professional development for teachers and makes available materials that enhance and meet the standard goals of the Boston Public Schools curriculum. Our organization also develops, and fills critical gaps in the availability of innovative resources and services. One of the primary purposes of Extras for Creative Learning is to support the Boston Public Schools efforts to ensure that all students meet the standards set for academic learning (e.g. reading and literature, writing, mathematics, etc.) and for habits of mind and work (e.g. curiosity and critical thinking, respect for diversity, consideration and compassion, etc.) for elementary, junior high, and senior high school levels.
Low annual membership fees allow teachers, youth programmers and parents to select various quantities of material and to attend our affordable workshops that illustrate how reusable materials can build subject exploration kits, enhance curricula, and develop creative expression and critical thinking. Capitalizing on its strong ties to business, industry, environmental agencies, and educational communities, ExCL collects, sorts and redistributes valuable surplus materials annually to those who need it most.
