We got to attend the National Afterschool Association’s 2023 Convention in Orlando this week on behalf of GPSN and be in community with afterschool and out-of-school time professionals from across the country and left:
- Inspired by all the ideas, best practices, tools, and strategies shared on how we can collectively increase student engagement, center student voice, and elevate the out-of-school profession.
- Energized by reconnecting with partners in-person and fostering new connections.
- Grateful for the chance to step outside of our typical spaces and focus on learning, connecting, and cross-pollinating ideas.
-Jasmine Ako, GPSN
It was a conference full of rich conversations around culture, barriers to equity, how leadership and boards across organizations and cities should bring youth to the table to inform policy and effect real long-lasting change. There were so many calls-to-action around social justice that impact our neuro-diverse youth, LGBTQ+ youth, migrant families, and other marginalized communities. From these intentional conversations and workshops, I feel inspired and motivated to continue these courageous conversations.
-Sully Diaz, Morningside Center for Teaching Social Responsibility
It was my first time attending the National AfterSchool Association Convention and I had an absolute blast!! From the incredible speakers, informative workshops, connecting with OST professionals, and forming greater bonds with my team members. It was absolutely a filling week and I can't wait for NAA24 in Dallas!!!
-Devin Swift, Chicago Youth Centers
#NAA23 was awesome! I'm so excited to share what I learned from the great thought leaders throughout the National AfterSchool Association. By working together, and developing strategies and solutions, while holding ourselves accountable, I know we can address some of the biggest issues in the after-school space.
-Gregory Facey, BellXcel
People shared a lot of great feedback and ideas this year, and we look forward to sharing them leading up to 2024’s Convention. We are incredibly grateful for the time we got to spend with everyone who joined us in Orlando, and we hope to see all of you and more in Dallas next year! Save the date for NAA24 - March 17-20, 2024.
