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
Board Governance Can Make or Break a Non-Profit
The unfolding story of Dr. Burnette’s departure as Newfield’s CEO, after only 14 months, is garnering overwhelming interest across the community. Most longtime leaders in the non-profit sector have been through public relations crises, and it’s never easy, especially when it is a top news story. Even when it’s not you or your organization under fire, the risk is always there. Much of the … [Read more...] about Board Governance Can Make or Break a Non-Profit
6 Ways to Promote Youth Creativity
“Our task, regarding creativity, is to help children climb their own mountains, as high as possible. No one can do more.” - Loris Malaguzzi Children are naturally curious, experimental, and usually all too willing to get their hands in some paint, and as their parents, teachers, and program leaders, we sometimes assume that the best way to encourage a student’s creativity is simply to get out … [Read more...] about 6 Ways to Promote Youth Creativity