Program Quality
The research is clear – children and youth participating in high-quality afterschool, out-of-school and summer programs have higher grades, better school attendance, greater skills and healthier behaviors. Colorado currently does not have a unifying set of quality standards for school-aged youth in afterschool programs. To help fill this gap, CAP is currently assessing Colorado’s landscape of quality systems, collaborating with state offices on credentialing and licensing, and seeking feedback from local providers.
Additionally, there are several programs from other states that follow local, state and/or national curricula, licensing standards, and/or accreditations. Examples may be found here:
California Afterschool Network Program Quality
Indiana Afterschool Network Program Quality Self-Assessment
New York State Network for Youth Success Quality Self-Assessment Tool
Youth and School Age Program Quality Assessment
Professional Development
Professional development is key to the delivery of quality programs that create better outcomes for all Colorado youth.
Interested in professional development? Learn more from these national resources:
National Afterschool Association Professional Development
National Afterschool Association Core Competencies
National Afterschool Association Code of Ethics
Professional Learning and Technical Assistance for 21st CCLCs
Are you a NAA member?
As you know, the National Afterschool Association is the professional membership association for people who work with and for youth during Out-of-School Time (OST). NAA is committed to providing its members with the resources and support they need to make a positive impact on the lives of young people, and our new membership model makes it easier than ever to find a membership option that fits your needs or those of your organization.
Why should you join or renew your membership with NAA?
- To learn, grow professionally, and expand your connections and circle of influence. NAA offers a variety of professional development opportunities, including conferences, webinars,and online courses. NAA also has a strong network of members who can provide you with support and mentorship.
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To contribute more broadly to the OST field. NAA is a leading advocate for OST programs and policies. By joining NAA, you can help to ensure that OST programs are high-quality and accessible to all young people.
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To support a thriving OST workforce because you believe in the power of afterschool. NAA is committed to developing and supporting the OST workforce. By joining NAA, you can help to ensure that OST professionals have the resources and support they need to be successful.
NAA offers several different options for those who are interested in joining or renewing their membership.
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Individual Membership, $100: NAA offers memberships designed to meet the needs of individual committed afterschool professionals and leaders looking to grow professionally, expand their network and build or share their knowledge.
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Individual Pay-it-Forward, $150: For those who can pay a higher rate without hardship. Helps offset costs to ensure resources are widely accessible.
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Individual Reduced, $25: For individuals who work for small organizations or programs that can’t subsidize membership, make a modest income, and are purchasing their membership, or are just starting their OST careers.
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Organizational or Program Account: Setting up an organizational account lets your organization manage and pay for individual memberships for your employees.
We encourage you to join NAA today and amplify the difference you make in the lives of young people.
In addition to the benefits listed above, NAA members also receive:
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A subscription to NAA’s award-winning Afterschool Today magazine
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Discounts on NAA products and services
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Access to NAA’s online member community
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Eligibility for NAA scholarships and awards
