Missouri AfterSchool Network

We're pleased to announce applications are open for the ARPA Afterschool Enrichment Grant Program, supporting high-quality afterschool programs serving youth most impacted by COVID-19. Eligible organizations include community nonprofits, educational institutions, and municipal agencies. Grant packages focus on specialized staffing, professional development, and program enhancements. Interested organizations can learn more and apply on the MASN website: https://lnkd.in/dvF3vifE #afterschoolworks #moafterschool #EducationGrants #YouthDevelopment #ARPA #CommunityImpact

Missouri is taking bold steps to prepare its youth for high-demand STEM careers! With a $3.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor's Youth Workforce Pathways program, the Missouri AfterSchool Network (MASN), in partnership with the STEM Next Opportunity Fund, is launching an exciting initiative to help underserved students explore career pathways in science, technology, engineering, and math. This program offers work-based learning, mentorship, and access to internships, empowering the next generation of STEM professionals. Want to learn how this collaboration is shaping Missouri’s future workforce? Dive into the details! #moafterschool #afterschoolworks #STEMCareerPathways #EC2Intiative #STEMReady #AfterschoolSTEM

Today, STEM Next Opportunity Fund takes the next giant leap in our mission to prepare America's youth for the future of work. Supported by a $3.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, we’re launching the Exploring Career Connections in STEM (EC2) initiative with afterschool network affiliates in Missouri, Nebraska, South Carolina, and South Dakota — with an eye toward expansion nationwide. EC2 integrates out-of-school time STEM programs into workforce development systems, creating a new model for STEM career readiness that addresses critical national needs: ?? Responding to the rapidly growing demand for skilled STEM workers across the United States through sustainable, systems-level changes in workforce development; and ?? Providing rural and underserved youth with stronger pathways to high-demand, high-wage careers in fields like biotech, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Through partnerships with community STEM OST programs, EC2 will initially impact over 500 youth ages 14-21 and indirectly benefit 9,000 younger participants. EC2 is central to our strategy under the Institute for a STEM Ready America, which connects young people to the careers of tomorrow. The journey is just beginning. As we work toward our ambitious goal to excite 20 million young people with STEM opportunities by 2030, we invite you to co-invest with us in the OST field to ensure that every child has STEM opportunities that inspire curiosity, innovation, and the critical thinking skills for whatever comes NEXT. https://bit.ly/3zxJthI Missouri AfterSchool Network, South Carolina Afterschool Alliance, South Dakota Afterschool Network, Jobs for the Future (JFF) #STEMCareerPathways #EC2Initiative #STEMReady #AfterschoolSTEM

The Kirkwood School District Adventure Club is taking learning to new heights with their "Out of This World" summer program. Thanks to grants from the Missouri AfterSchool Network (MASN), students are exploring math, science, and even yoga in engaging ways. #MOAfterschool #AfterschoolWorks #STEM #KirkwoodMO #adventureclub Kirkwood School District

At the Missouri AfterSchool Network (MASN), we're more than just a resource—we're your partners in success. From Technical Assistance to the Youth Pitch Challenge and our annual Show Me Afterschool Day at the Capitol, our dedicated team collaborates with programs across the state to elevate afterschool education. But what makes MASN truly special? Our exceptional team spirit! Hear from Alicia Pierro, our Data & Project Support Coordinator, as she shares her perspective on our collaborative ethos: "MASN = Together" Together, we're shaping the future of afterschool programs in Missouri. Connect with us to learn how we can support your program's growth and impact! #Afterschoolworks #Moafetrschool #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork

The Missouri Afterschool Network's grant has played a crucial role in elevating the Carroll County Area YMCA's summer program. From enhancing educational activities to supporting inclusive staffing, the funding has made a significant difference. As Candice aptly put it, "What MASN does for programs is so important," underscoring the vital role of grants in empowering local communities and enriching the lives of children. #MOAfterschool #AfterschoolWorks

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

MASN’s Non-Grantee Technical Assistance (TA) launched at the 2023 Missouri School Age Conference (MOSAC)! In the months since, programs have sought help with licensing and administrative support.? Ashlee Liska, associate director of quality with MASN, reflects on afterschool program feedbaclk to this new resource. Ashlee Liska: Truly, connecting with program directors, watching them smile as we work through the TA hurdles together, is a highlight of my day! When I connect with a program seeking support, we start by going over their programming needs and ideal end goals. Then, we make action plans to implement a customized, realistic timeline.? The fun doesn’t end there! Regular check-ins are set so we can always adjust the action plan.? The key takeaway I hope program directors garner is that I am always available. Even if we reach the set end goal, I’m not going away. I’m always here to help in any capacity. The mind-blowing part about the Non-Grantee TA is there’s no set time for the program to work through their challenges. Ongoing check-ins, in any form, is a move in a positive direction.? Really, the single barrier a program faces is taking the time to make the initial reach out. Program directors, I encourage you to check out MASN’s Menu of Services, then let’s chat!

A recent change in Missouri law will make it easier for community-based afterschool programs to get started or expand, meaning more youth will be safe and supervised during the before and after school hours. Previously, child care licensing regulations required school-age programs that were neither located in schools, nor run by schools, to pass stringent physical space licensing regulations that are appropriate to protect infants and toddlers. The new legislation, SB 1111, recognizes that school-age youth have different abilities from early childhood youth, so they should have different regulations. Under the new legislation school-age programs will not have to have the same level of fire and sanitation inspections as early childhood centers, but will still be required to meet the fire and sanitation expectations of other buildings in the city or county where the program is located. Additionally, school-age programs will still have to pass licensing inspections ensuring that they are meeting other?non-physical licensing regulations, including staff training and education, background checks, ratio and more. This law will not impact programs serving children ages 0-5 who have not yet entered kindergarten. SB 1111 will also exempt programs serving only middle and high school students from all child care licensing regulations. The governor is expected to sign SB 1111 into law. If signed, it would go into effect August 28, 2024. Missouri AfterSchool Network is working on an outreach plan to communicate the new changes to potential providers of afterschool programs.

As the Youth Entrepreneur Pitch Challenge comes to a close the week of July 15, Robbie Toth-Cosby, chief operating officer with the Boys & Girls Club of the Heartland, reflects on the impact this experience has on youth. "The Youth Entrepreneur Pitch Challenge offers an exciting opportunity for young participants to innovate and showcase their product ideas. By encouraging them to think creatively without boundaries, this challenge nurtures a mindset that strives for excellence and encourages them to give their best presentations. Participants not only develop essential entrepreneurial skills but also gain confidence in their abilities through healthy competition. This experience can potentially propel them towards future success in business and innovation. Year after year, youth eagerly anticipate the Pitch Challenge, making it a highly recommended experience for any young person looking to explore their entrepreneurial spirit." Learn more about the breadth of the Youth Entrepreneur Pitch Challenge at moafterschool.org