Forum for Youth Investment’s Post

What is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week? ●     Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is a time to recognize, appreciate and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours.   Afterschool professionals deserve recognition, appreciation, and support for their work with kids, families, and communities.  ●      An estimated 7.8 million young people participate in afterschool programs yearly in the U.S.  ●      Over 850,000 afterschool professionals--those who work with children and youth during out-of-school time–are part of a highly skilled and valuable profession. However, they are often not recognized or appreciated for their essential work. ●      Research shows that afterschool professionals are the key to the program quality that mitigates risk factors and positively impacts youth outcomes.

Ebony Grace, NJSACC’s CEO, Honors #LightsOnAfterschool https://lnkd.in/gyhuVrGr NJSACC: New Jersey's Afterschool & Out-of-School Time (OST) Professional Network is highlighting the importance of supporting afterschool and out-of-school time professionals and programs across The Garden State. In this video, Ebony Grace wishes a Happy 25th Anniversary to this incredible national event! Why Afterschool Programs Matter Afterschool programs offer a safe, enriching environment for kids once the school day ends. From boosting academic achievement to fostering social skills and creativity, these programs provide critical support for students and working families alike. In New Jersey, thousands of children benefit from these programs, and with more resources, even more kids could have access to life-changing opportunities. Lights On Afterschool is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on these programs and their essential role in our communities. According to the Afterschool Alliance, participation in afterschool programs is linked to improved reading and math scores, better school attendance, and stronger support for working families. In fact, for every child currently in an afterschool program in New Jersey, three more are waiting for a spot. Events like Lights On Afterschool help raise awareness and support for expanding these opportunities. Learn more at: https://lnkd.in/dNeGjpzG

It’s very exciting to see the 5 C’s come to life for two year olds. Our curriculum focuses on the skills that endure for a lifetime. 🎙️ Communication 🧩 Critical thinking 🖌️ Creativity ⛹️♀️ Cooperation 👀 Curiosity Preparing children for life in the 21st Century 🚀 All 5 skills used in full on this project by Jo Nice, Caroline Clark, Amy Farquhar, Gemma Canham, Tracy Hollis, Sarah Eassom & Kathryn Reeve!

Today is a milestone day for G8 Education Ltd as CEO Pejman Okhovat formally signed the Multi-Employer Agreement that will deliver better conditions and a well-deserved 15% pay increase for G8’s educators and those in the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector. We are proud to be the only large provider involved in the MEB process advocating alongside others for increased rates of pay and better conditions for our team members who showcase their dedication and passion in our centres every day as they create the foundation for learning for life and shape the lives and minds of thousands of children. You can read more here https://ow.ly/e2hC50UkvgC

Something to think about

✅Start with Oral Language! ✅Build on intrinsic knowledge! ✅Transferable literacy skills for life! ✅Thinking children with literacy skills! So excited to share success! #earlyliteracy #earlychildhoodeducation #TACEE

Our recent webinar on the Action Learning Programme provided invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of civic engagement in higher education. The discussions during the webinar were enlightening, addressing complex challenges and innovative approaches in fostering meaningful university-community partnerships. Our webinar, "Becoming Civic: Reflections on the First Phase of NCIA's Action Learning Programme," served as a critical platform for disseminating key findings from our extensive research. The event highlighted the transformative potential of collaborative learning in advancing civic initiatives within the higher education sector. The session brought together programme participants and civic engagement specialists, facilitating in-depth discussions on shared experiences and evidence-based practices. We explored strategic approaches for universities to amplify their civic impact and cultivate sustainable community partnerships. We extend our sincere appreciation to all contributors and participants. Your expertise and commitment are instrumental in shaping the future trajectory of civic universities. We look forward to continuing this collaborative effort to advance knowledge, foster partnerships, and drive innovation in civic engagement. For those unable to attend, a recording of the webinar is available here. https://lnkd.in/eEBzZp5i Read our report here: https://bit.ly/41hC9lU

April 22-26, 2024 is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week (APAW), a dedicated week to recognize, appreciate and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours. Research shows that skilled and knowledgeable program staff are the backbone of program quality and are key to desired positive youth outcomes. We hope everyone joins us April 22-26 in celebrating afterschool professionals and then continues to advocate for job quality in support of these essential professionals throughout the year. Why is it important to recognize Afterschool Professionals? An estimated 7.8 million children participate in afterschool programs each year; for every child in an afterschool program, two more are waiting to get in. Every young person deserves quality afterschool experiences that positively impact their development. It takes skilled professionals to create these experiences. Because of the important role afterschool professionals play in kids’ lives, they deserve recognition and support! What is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week? Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is a time to recognize, appreciate and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours. The week is marked by celebrations, public relations, and advocacy efforts encouraging appreciation and support for afterschool professionals who make a profound difference in the lives of young people. Get your FREE communication kit here: https://lnkd.in/ehGdpiiS

Excited to share my recent ACS WASC Initial Visit experience at Family Academy - a groundbreaking educational school redefining learning boundaries! 📚 Family Academy has crafted an innovative hybrid model where certified Teacher Consultants partner with dedicated parents to create truly personalized learning journeys. Their "Learning Centers without walls" concept brilliantly adapts to diverse settings - from homes to community spaces and parks. What truly sets them apart? Their remarkable expansion across seven states (WA, CA, NV, OK, NE, MD, and HI), plus an incredible network of 18 world language teachers spanning 19 countries! Their main campus in Arlington isn't just a traditional school - it's a 10-acre agricultural wonderland complete with an active FFA Club, offering unique hands-on learning experiences. Under tammie elliott's visionary leadership, they're pushing educational boundaries even further - developing exciting dual enrollment partnerships with Jessup University and in talks with George Fox University. Their program especially resonates with military families through flexible online high school options. It's inspiring to see an educational model that so effectively combines professional guidance with parental involvement, creating pathways for student success while maintaining full compliance with state regulations. Family Academy isn't just teaching - they're transforming education! https://lnkd.in/dzQCEdyd

Education is the foundation of growth, empowerment, and a brighter future. On this National Education Day, let’s celebrate the power of learning and the role it plays in transforming lives. 🌟📚 #EmpowerThroughEducation #NationalEducationDay #LearningForLife #BuildingBrightFutures #KnowledgeIsPower #EducationMatters