Blog Posts

NJSACC Highlights Ayana Bell For Shining in the Field! Ayana Bell writes: “Afterschool programs are more than just a place to go; they are where potential meets opportunity. As a former attendee and now director, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of these programs in shaping young minds and nurturing dreams. OST isn’t just an…

NJSACC’s Technical Assistance Specialist Dorine Francis Shares Her Thoughts on Afterschool! Dorine Francis writes: “The world of Out-of-School Time, OST, is nothing short of amazing! Whether it be a traditional afterschool program, a Saturday program, or a 6-week summer camp, the opportunity for youth to explore interests and learn new skills in a safe space…

NJSACC’s Quality Team Director Dagmar Wojcik Shares Her Afterschool Story! Dagmar writes: “In the field of Out-of-School Time, we all have the wonderful opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of the kids in our care and the adults they will become. My own summer experiences as a camper, CIT, and camp counselor…

NJSACC’s Director of Administrative Services Jessica Heiberg Shares Her Afterschool Story! Jess writes: “Providing and maintaining quality afterschool and out-of-school time programming is an ongoing process. The field is always changing and as such, there is always more to be learned. NJSACC remains ready to help programs continue on the path of continuous improvement.” Did…

NJSACC Highlights Alexis Mathieson For Shining in the Field! Alexis Mathieson writes: “Afterschool and out-of-school programs are more than just a place to pass the hour. As a product of impactful afterschool programs, I can truly say these experiences saved my life. From tutoring to life skills these empowering organizations shaped my path, opened doors,…

NJSACC’s Quality Support Coach Kandece Francis Shares Her Afterschool Story! Kandece writes “Afterschool helps with youth development and it can reiterate what is taught during school hours. ” Did you attend an afterschool program in your youth? Tell us what you did after school usually. Yes – Homework help, tutoring, cooking, theater, swimming, dance, chorus,…

It’s Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week: Ways to Celebrate Like A Professional! https://youtu.be/HCMzjiq2VDshttps://youtu.be/5E4QPoO7zYEhttps://youtu.be/gqVpSux2WG8https://youtu.be/SYE44qeCBSM Celebrate Afterschool Professionals April 21-25 NJSACC is celebrating Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week, April 21-25, to recognize, appreciate and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours. We are joining the effort because research shows that Afterschool Professionals make a profound…

Welcome to this National OST Program Director Survey on OST STEM Workforce! This online survey is part of a study conducted by the National Institute on Out-of-School Time (NIOST) at Wellesley College with support from the Overdeck Family Foundation and in partnership with the National Afterschool Association. NIOST is investigating effective strategies for recruiting, training,…

The 2025 Lights On Afterschool poster contest is officially open! This year, we’re looking for any artwork that represents the spirit of afterschool programs. Think about how your program has opened doors to new opportunities, whether it’s discovering something you love, learning new skills, or making friends. Show us how your afterschool staff have inspired, mentored, or…

Watch: 2025 Summer Youth Camp Season: Provider Informational Overview The federal Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Reauthorization Act increases the health and safety requirements for all child care and early learning settings that accept child care subsidies, including summer youth camps. These provisions include pre-service and annual trainings, comprehensive criminal background checks, written…