Operation Xcel recently underwent a program review by the NC Department of Public Instruction (DPI).  The review is required of all after-school programs to retain their Extended Learning and Integrated Student Supports (ELISS) grant.  The review focuses on three compliance categories: Program Management, Program Implementation, and State and Local Statutes.  Each category is rated as either Meets Requirements, Meets Requirements with Recommendations, or as Findings. 

Charlene Gladney, our Executive Director, shares her enthusiasm and well deserved recognition for the exceptional results of each site director and our program director who made it happen. Here is a part of her commendation that she sent to the team: 

Operation Xcel achieved the outstanding results from its most recent ELISS Comprehensive Program Monitoring Review. The State ELISS Team officially confirmed that Operation Xcel met all federal and state statutory compliance requirements, with no findings or recommendations for improvement. 

The site visits were incredibly impressive. Everyone came prepared, the documentation was in order, and your interviews reflected deep knowledge, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our students and families.

The state specifically commended our:

Differentiated services tailored to diverse student needs

Strong collaboration with feeder schools

Highly experienced and engaged staff

Thoughtful and aligned instructional services across sites

This is more than a compliance win—it’s a clear validation of the excellence, care, and consistency each site director brings to the work every day. Thank you for upholding the mission of Operation Xcel and ensuring our ELISS program truly changes lives.  Let’s take a moment to celebrate this milestone together. You’ve earned it.

These results mean that 100% of the criteria audited were found to be according to the state's standards.  This is a major accomplishment of which all involved personnel should be extremely proud. Congratulations, Site Directors and our Program Director, for all your hard work! We are proud of you!

Now, more than ever, we need your advocacy. President Trump’s proposed education budget released last Friday evening sends shockwaves through the world of afterschool and summer programs. The bold plan outright eliminates dedicated funding for these vital initiatives under the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC), threatening the futures of countless youth and families who rely on them. While the plan casts a shadow over community programs, our elected officials in Washington, DC hold the power to decide their fate—this is where your voice matters.

Speak up for our youth by contacting your Congressional Representatives and Senators to oppose this proposed budget! Tell them loud and clear: “Don’t eliminate funding for afterschool and summer programs in FY2026!” Together, we can ensure that our families continue to benefit from enriching programs that empower and uplift.

Do you work for an organization that offers donor matching or provides financial support to charitable organizations? Is your network connected to philanthropic funding? If so, we would love to hear from you. We are eager to collaborate with community organizations to jointly support our programs and the families involved in them.

Please reach out to Valerie Jones-Robinson, our Community Relationship Specialist, at vjones-robinson@operationxcel.org if you have information to share or you want to partner with us. Whether it's financial support, sponsorships, or advocacy, your partnership ensures that the exceptional tools and resources we provide can continue serving our families, even in uncertain times. Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success!

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers for both the Summer and Fall sessions!  

Ready to impact the lives of young learners? Here are the roles you can fill:

          Academic Tutors/Teachers (K-8 Math & ELA) 

          Enrichment Facilitators (K-8) - Lead fun activities in SEL, STEAM, and more! 

          Youth Mentors - Share your experiences and empower the next generation. 

          Program Assistants - Help support, monitor, and promote our programs. 

          Project Volunteers - Lend a hand with various projects as needed!

Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of our youth? Join us at Operation Xcel to inspire and empower the next generation!  Our coordinators are eager to connect with you!