Missouri AfterSchool Network

Beautiful day to spend with Missouri AfterSchool Network advocating for afterschool programs across the state #AfterschoolWorks

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators at Operation Breakthrough At Operation Breakthrough, students are gaining more than just knowledge—they are developing the skills, confidence, and experience needed to become future entrepreneurs and leaders. Young minds are integrating STEM, sustainability, and business acumen to create real-world solutions. The Youth Pitch Challenge, facilitated by the Missouri AfterSchool Network, has been instrumental in helping students refine their business models, develop marketing strategies, and secure funding for their ventures. A standout example is Bytes with Soul Food Truck, a student-led initiative that successfully navigated market competition, secured paid events—including a feature at Travis Kelce’s CarJam—and demonstrated the power of entrepreneurial thinking. From urban farming innovations to business development, these students are proving that with the right resources and mentorship, they can create meaningful change. How is Operation Breakthrough equipping students with the skills to shape their futures? Read more! Young Entrepreneur Institute at University School #moafterschool #afterschoolworks #entrepreneur

?? The future of STEM in Missouri is brighter than ever! Take a look at the excitement from STEM Day at the Capitol ?? ?? A huge thank you to Orscheln Products, Meta, Kansas City National Security Campus, Chamber Benefit Plan, Hitachi Energy, Missouri AfterSchool Network, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Watlow, Pfizer and Learning Blade for making this event possible.

Hear from Jason Patrie, data and evaluation coordinator, on his view of "Who is MASN". #afterschoolworks #moafterschool

Investing in Missouri’s Future Through STEM Education The Missouri AfterSchool Network (MASN) is dedicated to expanding access to high-quality STEM learning opportunities for students across the state. Through strategic partnerships, hands-on learning experiences, and professional development for afterschool professionals, MASN is strengthening Missouri’s STEM workforce pipeline and preparing students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Key STEM Initiatives: STEM Mobile Lab – Delivering interactive STEM learning directly to afterschool programs. Missouri Manufacturing Academy – Providing industry-focused STEM experiences for middle school students, in partnership with Missouri S&T and industry leaders. STEM Professional Learning Community (PLC) – Equipping educators with coaching, resources, and training to enhance STEM instruction. Leadership Summits & Pitch Challenge – Empowering students with career exploration, leadership development, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Mini Grants & Chamber Grants – Supporting partnerships between schools, businesses, and communities to promote workforce development in STEM and related fields. Through these initiatives, MASN is fostering innovation, curiosity, and career readiness among Missouri’s youth. By connecting students, educators, and industry leaders, we are building a stronger foundation for the future of STEM in Missouri. #STEMEducation #Afterschoolworks #FutureWorkforce #Innovation #MissouriSTEM #moafterschool

Unlocking Quality: How MASN Supports Your Afterschool Program Running a high-quality afterschool program comes with many challenges—staffing, enrollment, licensing, and overall program quality. But you don’t have to do it alone! The Missouri AfterSchool Network (MASN) offers free Afterschool Technical Assistance to help programs like yours thrive. With over 23 years of experience in school-age programming, Ashlee Liska, MASN’s Associate Director of Quality, provides customized support to meet your program’s unique needs. Whether you need administrative guidance, program quality improvement, or tailored solutions, MASN is here to help. Learn how MASN can support your afterschool program and schedule a free consultation today. ?? Read the full article here #AfterschoolWorks #Education #MASN #Childcare #ProgramQuality #Moafterschool

In rural communities, afterschool programs aren’t just enrichment—they’re essential. But with no local YMCAs or Boys & Girls Clubs, how can schools fill the gap? Crocker R-II’s LEAP program is leading the way. By partnering with neighboring districts, securing key grants, and tapping into community resources, they’ve built an afterschool program that’s transforming student success. - Providing transportation - Expanding activities (Esports, archery, volunteering, career skills) - Offering tutoring & leadership opportunities This is what innovation in rural education looks like. Read how they’re making it happen! #AfterschoolWorks #MOAfterschool #RuralEducation #StudentSuccess #K12Leadership #CommunityImpact

In Missouri’s rural communities, afterschool programs aren’t just an extra—they’re essential. These programs provide students with critical academic support, leadership development, and hands-on experiences like eSports, screen printing, and archery. More than just activities, they create a sense of belonging and opportunity. Afterschool strengthens communities by offering: - Academic support to keep students on track - Career exploration in fields like entrepreneurship and skilled trades - Enrichment activities that build confidence, teamwork, and leadership But too many rural families don’t have access. 59% of Missouri’s rural families would enroll their kids in afterschool if they could—but only 11% have access to a program. Afterschool is more than what happens after the bell—it’s an investment in Missouri’s kids, workforce, and future. Let’s work together to expand access and ensure every child has the opportunities they deserve. #IHeartAfterschool #AfterschoolWorks #MoAfterschool #StrongerCommunities #InvestInKids

Mental Health in Afterschool Day 2025 was a huge success thanks the Mental Health and Health committee, supporting legislators and amazing afterschool ambassadors who are committed to help Missouri youth.? ? Studies show children and adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media face double the risk of mental health problems including experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Afterschool programs support youth with these experiences. ? Just ask Rep. Burt Whaley.? ? “The idea of an afterschool program, for me, is that you create a safe environment, you create a learning environment, you create an affiliation,” he said. ? Thank you, Rep. Whaley, and everyone else for supporting our mental health efforts. #moafterschool #afterschoolworks