National AfterSchool Association (NAA)

Join us next Wed. at 2pm ET for a webinar about our new OST Job Quality Standards! Learn how to use the Standards to address recruitment and retention challenges. Register today: https://loom.ly/y8BZYGc

Do you remember when an adult’s words made a positive difference in your life? Your words are powerful—lives are changed by Absolutely Incredible #KidDay? and the simple act of your attention, generosity, and kindness. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eQJh2pG

?? New Podcast Episode: Lessons from Rural Communities ?? What does high-quality summer learning look like in rural areas? Two school districts—Eufaula Public Schools (OK) & Mountain Empire Unified School District (CA)—are proving that innovation and community-driven solutions can transform summer programs for kids! In the latest episode of The Wallace Foundation’s A Hot Time for Summer Learning Podcast, hear how these districts are expanding access and reinventing summer learning to meet the unique needs of their rural communities. ? Creative solutions for rural education ? Expanding high-quality learning opportunities ? Community-driven innovation in OST Listen now: https://loom.ly/VHDaWiA #AfterschoolMatters #SummerLearning #OSTInnovation #RuralEducation #Podcast

?? Meet Healthy OST Champion Enrique Garcia! At NAA, we know afterschool professionals go above and beyond to support the health and wellness of kids and staff in OST programs. That’s why The Collaborative for Advancing Healthy Experiences in OST (CAHE-OST) is highlighting leaders making a real impact! Enrique Garcia, Healthy Kids Director at United Way of El Paso County, TX, is doing incredible work to create healthier, more supportive environments for young people. His story is proof that small changes can lead to big transformations in OST programs! Want to learn more? Keep reading here: https://loom.ly/_kMoS0g #AfterschoolMatters #HealthyOST #OSTChampions #AfterschoolWellness

Funding your afterschool program just got easier! With shifting priorities at the federal, state, and local levels, securing afterschool funding is more challenging than ever. But you don’t have to navigate it alone! The Afterschool Funding Database—powered by our partners at Afterschool Alliance—helps programs find and secure the resources they need. ? Explore funding opportunities ? Stay informed on policy changes ? Unlock new private & philanthropic investments At NAA, we know that strong funding fuels strong programs—and that means more opportunities for youth to thrive. Start your funding search today! Learn more: https://loom.ly/FEiCbH8 #AfterschoolMatters #FundingOpportunities #OST #AfterschoolFunding #SupportYouth

? NAA25 Recap: Igniting People, Unlocking Potential, Creating Possibilities ? This year's convention was amazing! We had four incredible days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Our time in Nashville was filled with: ? Engaging workshops and leadership intensives ? Thought-provoking keynotes and discussions ? Recognition of emerging leaders in OST ? Unforgettable moments of connection and celebration Attendees are heading home energized and ready to implement new ideas in their programs and communities. Thank you to everyone who made #NAA25 such a powerful gathering! Get the full recap: https://loom.ly/P-eLfVE ?? We can’t wait to see you at #NAA26! #AfterschoolMatters #NAA25 #OSTLeadership #ProfessionalDevelopment

Thank you #NAA25 participants for sharing your voice! Now it's your turn LinkedIn: 3to6.co/congress! ??

And that's a wrap on #NAA25! ?? Our team at the National AfterSchool Association is filled with gratitude for every participant, presenter, and exhibitor who made this Convention such an incredible experience. Over the past few days, we’ve connected, learned, and celebrated the people, potential, and possibilities that drive the afterschool field forward. We hope you’re leaving NAA25 feeling inspired, energized, and equipped with new ideas to take back to your programs and communities. But the momentum doesn’t have to stop here! Stay connected, continue learning, and keep growing as a leader in afterschool by becoming an NAA member. If this experience has reinforced your passion for afterschool, consider joining our year-round community of professionals dedicated to advancing the field. Learn more about membership here: naaweb.org/page/Membership Safe travels home, and thank you for being part of #NAA25! Until next time! ??

Chronic absenteeism blocks student success, but afterschool programs help keep kids engaged & learning! Research shows OST programs boost attendance and equity—but we've got to invest in both programs and workforce to make a real impact. Learn more: https://loom.ly/2KNmng4 #AfterschoolMatters #OSTWorks OSTJobQualityStandards

Make your voice heard on Capital Hill! Federal funding for afterschool programs is at risk. Take action now by clicking through to 3to6.co/congress to use use a template to compose your own short message to your senators and representative about the need to protect and increase funding for quality afterschool and summer learning programs. Since sharing this link at our third #NAA25 general session, 229 people sent 687 emails to Congress. Let's keep that momentum going and make your voice heard today!