The Alabama Afterschool Quality Standards Project
“Afterschool” is often used interchangeably with “Out-of-School” time (OST). Out-of-School time refers to youth development programming that occurs beyond the traditional school day - including before and after school, weekends, holidays and summers. Programs are structured and offer a wide range of learning and enrichment activities that promote academic, artistic, physical, social and emotional development for all participating children and youth.
The goal of the Alabama Afterschool Quality Standards Project, an agreement with the Alabama Department of Human Resources and the Truman Pierce Institute (TPI) at Auburn University, is to assist school-age programs in our state to work with the specific needs of school-aged children. TPI offers professional development based on the Alabama School-aged Quality Standards to ensure children are provided a safe environment and quality programming during the out-of-school time. Through professional development and resources, we strive to advance the competencies of the school-age childcare providers to provide age appropriate, developmental activities to allow our youth to meet their potential.
Click below to download the Quality Standards:
Alabama Afterschool Quality Standards.pdf
2021 Live Virtual Professional Development Calendar
Trainings are also offered through the Regional Childcare Centers. Check your area center for dates and times.
Challenge Kids with Robots and Coding
Dash and Dot are the perfect way to bring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) into a new light for children. Robots teach kids age five and up how to code while they play. Using cool, free apps and a compatible tablet or smartphone, kids learn to code while they make Dash sing, dance, and move all around the room. Dash and Dot are exciting, hands-on learning tools for students in grades K-5! Targeted at teaching creative problem solving and computational thinking, Dash and Dot help students learn fundamental processes relevant for all 21st-century skills. Students send commands to the robots to move them, light them up, and have them detect the world around them using four free coding applications available on iPad and Android tablets. Join us to learn more!
Date
Location
Time
01/28/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenters
Kendra Allene & Michelle Denney
Spark Curiosity and Interest through STEM
The curiosity and creative thinking of children produce natural STEM, science, technology, engineering and mathematics, learners. Children construct knowledge through observation, exploration and experimentation. STEM learning uses teachable moments and children’s long-term investigations to build knowledge through developing children’s inquiry, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. By cultivating these critical skills teachers and childcare providers can positively influence children’s learning in the STEM disciplines. Join us to discover resources and strategies to prepare our school-age children (4 to 12 years old) for school and beyond.
Date
Location
Time
02/04/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenters
Kendra Allene & Michelle Denney
Structures and Strategies to Meet the Needs for Newcomers, ELs and All (PLU for Alabama Education Leaders)
Information will be added to PowerSchool
Date
Location
Time
02/17/2021
AMSTI
12:00-4:00 PM
Presenters
Dr. Jason Bryant & Sandy Resa
Building Teams and Relationships
How can you build positive, productive, caring teams in the workplace? It begins with building positive relationships and setting clear expectations within your organization along with injecting a bit of humor along the way. Team building has several major objectives one of which is enhancing good communications with participants as team members and individuals. There is also increased productivity and creativity which only supports the morale and positive rapport within your organization. Research has found when teams are at their personal best, they follow these five practices: model the way, inspire a shared vision, challenge the process, enable others to act, and encourage the heart. This training offers a powerful opportunity for you to reflect on each essential element, think beyond your personal agenda, and to involve others in the planning and the doing while having fun along the way.
Date
Location
Time
02/18/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenter
Dr. Jason Bryant
Spark Curiosity and Interest through STEM
The curiosity and creative thinking of children produce natural STEM, science, technology, engineering and mathematics, learners. Children construct knowledge through observation, exploration and experimentation. STEM learning uses teachable moments and children’s long-term investigations to build knowledge through developing children’s inquiry, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. By cultivating these critical skills teachers and childcare providers can positively influence children’s learning in the STEM disciplines. Join us to discover resources and strategies to prepare our school-age children (4 to 12 years old) for school and beyond.
Date
Location
Time
02/23/2021
CCRC Opelika- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenters
Kendra Allene & Michelle Denney
Positive Behavior Supports in Out-of-School
Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS) is an evidence-based approach for establishing the social, cultural and behavioral supports needed to establish an effective learning environment for all students. Consistency is key to success and the afterschool program can help improve the school climate and reduce behavior management issues by integrating PBS strategies beyond the school day.
Date
Location
Time
03/02/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenter
Sandy Resa
Keeping Kids Safe: Physically, Socially, and Emotionally
A safe environment is essential for children of all ages. The gap in time between the ringing of the school bell and when adults arrive home from work has long been a concern of families and community members due to the potential dangers and risky behaviors that take place after school. The COVID breaks from school coupled with other breaks in the school calendar offer a greater challenge to keep our children safe. In the session, Keeping School-Age Kids Safe: Physically, Socially and Emotionally, we will explore the revisions and additions to the Health and Safety Guidelines, Requirements and Procedures for Out-of-School Time Facilities Participating in the Child Care Subsidy Program that were made so a greater number of children may be served in our state. In addition, we will examine strategies and best practices to address the needs and increase engagement to offer a better experience for all.
Date
Location
Time
03/09/2021
CCRC- Opelika
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenter
Sandy Resa
Community: Building Partnerships for Sustainability
Would you like to see additional programs at your site without having to plan them? Or maybe get free treats for your students and staff? Join us as we discuss how to leverage partners in your community to create more successful programs. Topics discussed will include how to find partners, the initial ask for partnership, including your partners in planning, and more.
Date
Location
Time
03/11/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenter
Erika Rucker
Implementing Best Practices to Increase Engagement
Are you seeking new strategies to engage your school-age children? Let’s explore best practices to help increase achievement for struggling students, reduce disruption and allow a positive, productive environment.
Date
Location
Time
03/23/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenter
Sandy Resa
Implementing Best Practices to Increase Engagement
Are you seeking new strategies to engage your school-age children? Let’s explore best practices to help increase achievement for struggling students, reduce disruption and allow a positive, productive environment.
Date
Location
Time
04/06/2021
CCRC- Opelika
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenter
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Structures and Strategies to Meet the Needs for Newcomers, ELs and All (PLU for Alabama Education Leaders)
Information will be added to PowerSchool
Date
Location
Time
04/07/2021
AMSTI
12:00-4:00 PM
Presenters
Dr. Jason Bryant & Sandy Resa
Equity in Stem Education
Children are often exposed to gender and ethnic stereotypes in STEM education from an early age. These stereotypes can be unintentionally reinforced through routines and practices. By increasing our awareness of these stereotypes and recognizing and respecting the diversity in our out-of-school programs, we can learn to cultivate an environment in which all students are empowered, challenged, supported, and provided full access to STEM education. Join us as we explore ways to bridge the gender and ethnic gaps often found in STEM fields. Increasing excitement about STEM and improving accessibility to STEM learning will boost student confidence and ultimately have a positive impact on students’ future life choices.
Date
Location
Time
04/08/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenters
Michelle Denney & Kendra Allen
SEL: Taking Care of Staff
Childcare providers and educators work hard to bring their best selves to the classroom every day while they juggle individual student needs, set ambitious goals, and often work long hours. Many providers also face escalating job demands with few resources while they work with students who face complex trauma, behavioral difficulties and learning challenges. The stress level of childcare providers and teachers can
affect their health and well-being as well as their job satisfaction and teacher retention. It is essential for educators take time to prevent burnout, promote health, and protect themselves from the negative effects of stress. Discover strategies and practices to take care self and staff create a positive environment for all.
Date
Location
Time
04/20/2021
AU- Zoom
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenter
Sandy Resa
Community: Building Partnerships for Sustainability
Would you like to see additional programs at your site without having to plan them? Or maybe get free treats for your students and staff? Join us as we discuss how to leverage partners in your community to create more successful programs. Topics discussed will include how to find partners, the initial ask for partnership, including your partners in planning, and more.
Date
Location
Time
05/06/2021
AU- Zoom
1:00-3:00 PM
Presenter
Erka Rucker
Structures and Strategies to Meet the Needs for Newcomers, ELs and All (PLU for Alabama Education Leaders)
Information will be added to PowerSchool
Date
Location
Time
05/12/2021
AU-Zoom
1:00-3:00 PM
Presenters
Dr. Jason Bryant & Sandy Resa
Challenge Kids with Robots and Coding
Dash and Dot are the perfect way to bring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) into a new light for children. Robots teach kids age five and up how to code while they play. Using cool, free apps and a compatible tablet or smartphone, kids learn to code while they make Dash sing, dance, and move all around the room. Dash and Dot are exciting, hands-on learning tools for students in grades K-5! Targeted at teaching creative problem solving and computational thinking, Dash and Dot help students learn fundamental processes relevant for all 21st-century skills. Students send commands to the robots to move them, light them up, and have them detect the world around them using four free coding applications available on iPad and Android tablets. Join us to learn more!
Date
Location
Time
05/17/2021
CCRC- Opelika
6:30-8:30 PM
Presenters
Kendra Allen & Michelle Denney
Building Teams and Relationships
How can you build positive, productive, caring teams in the workplace? It begins with building positive relationships and setting clear expectations within your organization along with injecting a bit of humor along the way. Team building has several major objectives one of which is enhancing good communications with participants as team members and individuals. There is also increased productivity and creativity which only supports the morale and positive rapport within your organization. Research has found when teams are at their personal best, they follow these five practices: model the way, inspire a shared vision, challenge the process, enable others to act, and encourage the heart. This training offers a powerful opportunity for you to reflect on each essential element, think beyond your personal agenda, and to involve others in the planning and the doing while having fun along the way.
Date
Location
Time
05/20/2021
AU- Zoom
1:00-3:00 PM
Presenter
Dr. Jason Bryant
Positive Behavior Supports in Out-of-School
Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS) is an evidence-based approach for establishing the social, cultural and behavioral supports needed to establish an effective learning environment for all students. Consistency is key to success and the afterschool program can help improve the school climate and reduce behavior management issues by integrating PBS strategies beyond the school day.
Date
Location
Time
05/25/2021
Au- Zoom
1:00-3:00 PM
Presenter
Sandy Resa
Positive Behavior Supports in Out-of-School
Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS) is an evidence-based approach for establishing the social, cultural and behavioral supports needed to establish an effective learning environment for all students. Consistency is key to success and the afterschool program can help improve the school climate and reduce behavior management issues by integrating PBS strategies beyond the school day.
Date
Location
Time
05/26/2021
CCR- Birmingham
1:00-3:00 PM
Presenter
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Keeping Kids Safe: Physically, Socially, and Emotionally
A safe environment is essential for children of all ages. The gap in time between the ringing of the school bell and when adults arrive home from work has long been a concern of families and community members due to the potential dangers and risky behaviors that take place after school. The COVID breaks from school coupled with other breaks in the school calendar offer a greater challenge to keep our children safe. In the session, Keeping School-Age Kids Safe: Physically, Socially and Emotionally, we will explore the revisions and additions to the Health and Safety Guidelines, Requirements and Procedures for Out-of-School Time Facilities Participating in the Child Care Subsidy Program that were made so a greater number of children may be served in our state. In addition, we will examine strategies and best practices to address the needs and increase engagement to offer a better experience for all.
Date
Location
Time
06/03/2021
Dothan
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Positive Behavior Supports in Out-of-School
Positive Behavioral Supports (PBS) is an evidence-based approach for establishing the social, cultural and behavioral supports needed to establish an effective learning environment for all students. Consistency is key to success and the afterschool program can help improve the school climate and reduce behavior management issues by integrating PBS strategies beyond the school day.
Date
Location
Time
06/08/2021
CCRC- Opelika
6:30-8:30 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Challenge Kids with Robots and Coding
Dash and Dot are the perfect way to bring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) into a new light for children. Robots teach kids age five and up how to code while they play. Using cool, free apps and a compatible tablet or smartphone, kids learn to code while they make Dash sing, dance, and move all around the room. Dash and Dot are exciting, hands-on learning tools for students in grades K-5! Targeted at teaching creative problem solving and computational thinking, Dash and Dot help students learn fundamental processes relevant for all 21st-century skills. Students send commands to the robots to move them, light them up, and have them detect the world around them using four free coding applications available on iPad and Android tablets. Join us to learn more!
Date
Location
Time
06/10/2021
Dothan
6:00-8:00 PM
Presenters
Kendra Allen & Michelle Denney
Financial Literacy: Prepare Our Youth in Money Management
Financial literacy lessons teach children the basics of money management: budgeting, saving, debt, investing, and giving. That knowledge lays a foundation for our youth to build strong money habits early on and avoid many of the mistakes that lead to lifelong money struggles. Explore the benefits and importance of teaching financial literacy to our youth. Learn about resources to employ and steps you can implement to ensure an impactful experience to prepare our children for life.
Date
Location
Time
07/01/2021
AU-Zoom
1:00-3:00 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Heroes Get Tired Too: Caring for Self and Staff
Whew- Let’s Start Next School Year Off Right! Childcare providers and educators work hard to bring their best selves to the classroom every day while they juggle individual student needs, set ambitious goals, and often work long hours. Many providers also face escalating job demands with few resources while they work with students who face complex trauma, behavioral difficulties and learning challenges. The stress level of childcare providers and teachers can affect their health and well-being as well as their job satisfaction and teacher retention. It is essential for educators take time to prevent burnout, promote health, and protect themselves from the negative effects of stress. Discover strategies and practices to take care of self and staff and to create a positive environment for all.
Date
Location
Time
07/13/2021
AU-Zoom
3:00-5:00 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Do All Stakeholders Feel Safe? Creation of a Safe, Supportive Environment
Does your program have structures and strategies in place to create a safe and supportive environment for all? It is important to foster a safe physical environment coupled with a comfortable learning environment in which children feel safe, relaxed, and willing to take risks, especially for learners who may have had negative experiences. Children often describe supportive learning environments as places that expand their sense of family and in which they feel safe to take risks. We will explore routines and strategies to employ in order to provide a safe, supportive environment where children can grow.
Date
Location
Time
07/15/2021
AU-Zoom
3:00-5:00 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Do All Stakeholders Feel Safe? Creation of a Safe, Supportive Environment
Does your program have structures and strategies in place to create a safe and supportive environment for all? It is important to foster a safe physical environment coupled with a comfortable learning environment in which children feel safe, relaxed, and willing to take risks, especially for learners who may have had negative experiences. Children often describe supportive learning environments as places that expand their sense of family and in which they feel safe to take risks. We will explore routines and strategies to employ in order to provide a safe, supportive environment where children can grow.
Date
Location
Time
07/15/2021
CCRC- Opelika
6:30-8:30 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Preparation + Communication = Staff Success
Hiring and retaining quality staff is essential to achieving program excellence. Join us as we discuss strategies for preparing your staff for success. We will address topics that include how to plan effective orientation procedures for new staff and how to conduct a needs assessment in order to provide ongoing professional development that reflects individual needs and promotes personal growth. We will also share suggestions for how to provide constructive feedback regarding individual performance goals. Positive communication between program leaders and staff will help your program employ best practices to meet the needs of the whole child.
Date
Location
Time
07/26/2021
AU-Zoom
3:00-5:00 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Preparation + Communication = Staff Success
Hiring and retaining quality staff is essential to achieving program excellence. Join us as we discuss strategies for preparing your staff for success. We will address topics that include how to plan effective orientation procedures for new staff and how to conduct a needs assessment in order to provide ongoing professional development that reflects individual needs and promotes personal growth. We will also share suggestions for how to provide constructive feedback regarding individual performance goals. Positive communication between program leaders and staff will help your program employ best practices to meet the needs of the whole child.
Date
Location
Time
07/26/2021
CCRC-Opelika
6:30-8:30 PM
Presenters
Sandy Resa & Michelle Denney
Alabama Quality Afterschool Standards
STANDARD 1: Environmental Safety, Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Healthy Lifestyle Initiatives
STANDARD 2: Staff and Youth Relationships
STANDARD 3: Youth Participation, Learning, and Engagement
STANDARD 4: Family and Community Partnerships
STANDARD 5: Programming and Alignment with Regular School Day Learning
STANDARD 6: Administration and Organizational Development
STANDARD 7: Staffing and Professional Development
STANDARD 8: Evaluation for Continuous Quality Improvement
Making the Case for Afterschool
http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/Making_the_case_for_afterschool.cfm
Alabama Department of Human Resources Coronavirus Information
https://dhr.alabama.gov/child-care/
Teacher’s Guide for Remote Learning
https://blog.westerndigital.com/teachers-guide-remote-learning-covid-19/dcvhj
America After 3 PM
https://afterschoolalliance.org/aa3pm/detail.html#
This is Afterschool Alabama
http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/documents/AL-afterschool-facts.pdf
Afterschool Statistics
Contact Us
Dr. Jason Bryant
Director of Truman Pierce Institute
Sandy Resa
Project Director