This year’s Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is April 22-26 and we're excited to shine the spotlight on the Out-of-School Time (OST) heroes that make our organization happen! With over 200 youth development workers embedded in 6 different Hoosier school districts, our team goes above and beyond to ensure the wellbeing of students from Pre-K through 8th grade. These professionals aren't … [Read more...] about Celebrating Our Team: Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week
Reflection: 2024 Legislative Session for OST Programs
With more than a decade’s focus on early learning initiatives like On My Way Pre-K, there has been an increasing awareness of the importance of School-Age Out-of-School Time (OST) programs at the Statehouse. Thanks to previous efforts, the 2024 legislative session came and went smoothly for Afterschool programs in Indiana. While AYS operates within school buildings, OST programs are offered in … [Read more...] about Reflection: 2024 Legislative Session for OST Programs
10 Ways to Make Structured Study Time More Impactful
One of the cornerstone elements of out-of-school time (OST) is the provision of organized study periods but, after a long time sitting in the classroom or with the allure of a bright sunny day, it can be a challenge to leverage that time impactfully. As leaders in this space, AYS program staff have developed some innovative ways to supercharge structured study time while keeping things fun. Here … [Read more...] about 10 Ways to Make Structured Study Time More Impactful
Navigating School Choice: Selecting the Right High School
When it comes to your child's education, making the right 'school choice' can be a pivotal decision. We have been alongside our students’ learning journeys from Pre-K and now to 8th grade where we must say goodbye as they graduate on to high school, but we still care about where they go from here! For many of our Central Indiana parents of 7th and 8th-grade students, the process of selecting a … [Read more...] about Navigating School Choice: Selecting the Right High School
Walking the Walk: What Mentoring Youth in 2024 Means
It's a fact - digital interactions sometimes overshadow face-to-face connections in the 2020s. That doesn't mean it can't be a tool for building meaningful relationships. This is especially true for mentoring collaborations across generations. The role of mentors has evolved beyond providing guidance. These leaders understand and help navigate unique challenges young people face. They also help … [Read more...] about Walking the Walk: What Mentoring Youth in 2024 Means
