Join AfterSchool21 In Celebration of After-School Professionals Across the Country

By Phillip Smith | Apr 18, 2018 11:07:00 AM | 21CCLC, After School Programs

    

TransACT’s AfterSchool21 Program Data Management Software team is joining the National AfterSchool Association (NAA) to celebrate the professionals that are at the heart of after-school programs during “Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week” April 24-28, 2023.

We truly believe that after-school professionals have a profound impact on the lives of young people, and we invite everyone to join us this week in expressing gratitude towards the dedicated individuals who play such a vital role in children's lives.

Why is it Important to Recognize After-School Professionals?

An estimated 10.2 million children participate in after-school programs each year. Today, after-school programs are viewed as much more than just childcare. They are widely credited as the way to enhance education in STEM, literacy, the arts, social and emotional learning, health and wellness, and more. With that demand comes increased responsibility on the estimated 850,000 of professionals who are making a difference in the lives of our children.

What is After-School Professionals Appreciation Week?

After-school Professionals Appreciation Week is a joint effort of community partners, after-school programs, youth and childcare workers, and individuals who have committed to dedicating time to recognize and appreciate those who work with youth during out-of-school hours. The week is marked by celebrations and public relations efforts to encourage people to thank after-school professionals serving children in programs and organizations across the nation.

Who is an After-School Professional?

An After-school Professional is someone who works with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide a wide variety of extended learning opportunities and care during out-of-school hours. Currently, there are an estimated 850,000 after-school professionals in the US.

How Can I Thank an After-school Professional?

  • Declare on social media: I appreciate the After-school Professionals who make a difference in the lives of young people: #heartofafterschool
  • Give a hand-written card from you and/or your child to the after-school professional in your life.
  • Send an email to an after-school professional’s supervisor describing why that person is appreciated. 
  • Help your local programs in their fundraising efforts by sending a letter to your senator or congressman expressing your support of after-school programs in your community, or donating time and resources to local programs. 
  • Donate simple supplies like paper, crayons, or glue to your local after-school programs. Even common household items like egg cartons can help educators create fun and engaging learning experiences for students. 

For more information about After-school Professionals Appreciation Week visit: http://www.heartofafterschool.com

 
Phillip Smith

About The Author

Phillip leverages his extensive software and education industry experience to share innovative solutions for many of our valued TransAct customers and partners. As leader of AfterSchool21 and OutOfSchoolTime-Tracker sales, he helps support after-school program administrators in parent pay management and accurate 21APR reporting. Phillip also leads the ActPoint KPI team and the Council of Great City Schools (CGCS) partnership. ActPointKPI supports district and state business leaders nationwide in their efforts to manage costs and drive resources back to where they belong–the classroom.