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As the professional membership organization for those who work with or for youth in OST, NAA is moving forward, defining the components of our profession’s identity as a knowledgeable and skilled workforce providing essential services and opportunities. In addition, we’re promoting workforce advocacy through our Thriving OST Workforce Initiative.

In my 25-year OST career, I’ve often heard that our field needs professionalizing. I view all who work in OST as professionals, so I’m curious about what people mean when they comment about professionalization. I have spent hours searching for answers.

There has been a clear need to expand and implement diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) strategies across workplace sectors since the continued, deep-seated racial disparities were painfully illuminated with injustices in 2020. Diversity spurs business discussion and creativity, helping organizations stay resilient through challenging internal and external times. Approaching organizational transformation with a DEIA-focused lens also widens employee and managerial perspectives, allowing people’s life experiences to be considered, which in turn enhances productivity and innovation. Getting into the DEIA space for an out-of-school time organization can seem daunting, but there are a few stepping stones that lead toward an impactful DEIA approach.

Considering bringing robotics into your Out of School Time (OST) programs? You’ve come to the right place! During the February 16th, at 2 PM ET webinar, panelists from a museum, community outreach, and enrichment center will share how they've used innovative STEAM robotics in OST settings – providing kids with engaging, hands-on fun, practicing critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Hear about how KIBO, a screen-free STEAM robot, is easily (and playfully) implemented into elementary-level programs and how you can integrate these experiences into your learning environments – creating programs learners won't want to leave!

Register today!