News

A recent study, The Great Resignation Research Report, examines critical themes that have led to employees leaving their jobs at an all-time high. Wages may come top of mind, especially in our afterschool field, where we acknowledge that afterschool workers deserve to –but often don’t–earn a thriving wage. However, what's driving workers to quit goes beyond that. The PlanBeyond research concludes work environments and supervisors that make people feel appreciated, involve collaboration, and encourage people to show up as their authentic selves, making employees want to stay.

Afterschool programs (and the professionals who run them) provide valuable opportunities and experiences, build skills and relationships, support kids, families, and communities. 

Individual OST professionals positively impact young people and families every day. Together, through the power of OST, all of us are making a collective impact on communities across the nation.

While the OST field has seen a considerable investment of funds become available for afterschool programs to serve more young people and get them the support they need, one significant challenge remains, staffing. Organizations across the country continue to struggle with recruitment and retention of the skilled professionals necessary to run high-quality programs.