On October 26, schools from coast to coast will joyously light up for the Lights on Afterschool movement that celebrates the boundless learning avenues that the future holds for students beyond the traditional school day. AYS programs will stand out as a beacon among memorable celebrations across Indiana. 1,000+ students will navigate through immersive stations geared toward STEM learning. Each … [Read more...] about We Grow Better with the Lights On!
Fostering Bully-Free Zones in Afterschool
Now more than ever, the implications of bullying are more understood and widely discussed. Afterschool workers play a pivotal role in shaping a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for children aged 4-13. Being the guardians of a bully-free zone requires vigilant, compassionate, and educated approaches. Here are five actionable anti-bullying tips that afterschool workers implement to … [Read more...] about Fostering Bully-Free Zones in Afterschool
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Matt Cepican
Who: Matt Cepican, Program Director at Blue and Gold Academies Years of Experience: 7 years with AYS Favorite Color: Teal Favorite Seasons: Spring and fall. Favorite Ice Cream: Chocolate chip cookie dough. Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of working with AYS? A: For me, the most rewarding aspect of AYS is helping the kids succeed. Not just in school, but a multitude … [Read more...] about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Matt Cepican
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Sue Turner
Who: Sue Turner, Program Director at Crooked Creek Years of Experience: 22 years with AYS Favorite Color: Purple Favorite Season: Loves all the seasons for different reasons. “I love the change each one brings.” Favorite Ice Cream: Lemon ice cream, especially lemon custard Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of working with AYS? A: I think there is continuity here. … [Read more...] about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Sue Turner
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Denise Smeltzer
Who: Denise Smeltzer, program director at Pittsboro Elementary When: 18 years (16 years as program director) Favorite color: Blue, because it’s a calming color Favorite season: Spring, because it’s new every year Favorite ice cream: Kroger brand Death by Chocolate Q: What has been the most rewarding aspect of working with AYS? A: Seeing the kids grow and change; seeing … [Read more...] about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – Denise Smeltzer
