WHAT'S NEW
Introducing Our Exciting New Podcast:
Inside Out-of-School Time
Preparing Young People for a Changing Workforce: Career Exploration and Readiness
What does workforce readiness look like in a rapidly changing career landscape? In Part 1 of this three-part conversation, host Karin Wolfe sits down with Shanika Peck of Foundations, Inc. and TA Liaison for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers National Technical Assistance Center (NTAC), to explore how out-of-school time (OST) programs can help young people build transferable skills, connect learning to future careers, and begin exploring career pathways early. Shanika also addresses common misconceptions about workforce readiness and shares why OST programs are uniquely positioned to create safe spaces for young people to explore, take risks, and discover what’s possible.
To see more Inside Out-of-School Time podcast episodes, click here.
Spotlight on OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME: BEYOND SCHOOL HOURS CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
Trends Shaping Today’s Afterschool and Summer Programs
Dr. Tongia Sanders reflects on emerging trends in afterschool and summer programs, including growing demand for enrichment, meaningful peer interaction, and academic support that goes beyond “summer school” remediation to meet a variety of student needs.
Meaningful Youth Engagement Starts with Student Leadership
What does meaningful youth engagement look like in practice? Ruth Pittard shares how giving students opportunities to lead instruction, collaborate with peers, and take ownership of learning creates more engaging and meaningful experiences in OST programs.
Using Youth Advisory Boards to Elevate Student Voice
Ashley Cortez and April Dugay discuss how their Youth Advisory Board helps shape programming. Their approach demonstrates how authentic student voice can strengthen OST programs.
