Implementing a Quality Improvement System: Changing Process, Changing Mindset, Changing Outcomes.

Adopting a continuous program quality improvement model is challenging; change can be uncomfortable, and system implementation can be a long process.

Starting with the End in Mind—Using School and Community Needs Assessments to Design High-Impact Afterschool Programs.

 In this episode, we talk with Derryck Fletcher of the Y of Central Maryland—the state's largest provider of youth development programs. During our conversation we discuss the importance of cultivating strong partnerships with schools and families to develop high-quality afterschool programs that meet children where they are.

The theme of ‪#‎NAA2015‬ is "Passionate Professionals, Powerful Stories" because we all have a story—and it's time to share yours! In a few words, tell your story in our downloadable graphic, snap a picture, and share using ‪#‎MyAfterschoolStory‬. Inspire others today!

The National Afterschool Association has been awarded funding from the Noyce Foundation to develop the first afterschool STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) credential.

The investment centerpiece—a STEM-related micro-credential and digital badge series—offered by NAA and developed with Click2SciencePD, will serve as a validated, industrywide indicator that afterschool staff have the requisite competencies to facilitate STEM learning across a variety of settings.

How to Conference like a True Afterschool Professional: Tips for NAA Convention Attendees

As a convention attendee, you'll experience informative and varied professional development sessions, exhibits, and the best networking with like-minded afterschool professionals. These tips will help you personalize your learning and plan a fun and engaging experience:

When was the last time you thought about how employees' e-mails represented your program? With the increased use of social media, texting, and Google docs or other project management software, you may have allowed your or your employees' e-mail standards to slide. But be careful: E-mail is still the most used communication tool in business today, which is why sharing e-mail etiquette and format standards is critical.

The National Afterschool Association (NAA) has been awarded funding from the Noyce Foundation to develop the first-ever afterschool STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) credential. The investment centerpiece -- a STEM-related micro-credential and digital badge series -- offered by NAA and developed with Click2SciencePD, will serve as a validated, industry-wide indicator that afterschool staff have the requisite competencies to facilitate STEM learning across a variety of settings.

The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge is calling all students in grades five through eight for another year of groundbreaking science exploration.

The #NAA2015 Exhibit Hall will be transformed into an Afterschool Learning Expo where Passionate Professionals have opportunities to share Powerful Stories, network, and learn about innovative ideas and products to help support quality and professionalism in out-of-school time.

"Building American Skills Through Community Colleges" Proposal Presents Huge Opportunity for Afterschool