Join the ND Afterschool Network!

Are you passionate about expanding high-quality out‑of‑school programming across ND?

The South East Education Cooperative is seeking a strategic, action‑oriented professional to serve as the visionary leader for the statewide Afterschool Network. In this impactful role, you’ll:

• Drive implementation of the ND Afterschool Network Strategic Plan
• Forge partnerships across schools, community organizations, and policymakers
• Provide coaching, technical assistance, and training to youth programs
• Advocate for funding, policies, and quality standards to elevate afterschool programming across the state

Why this role matters:

As the face of the network, you’ll elevate experiences outside the classroom by connecting programs, raising visibility, and shaping lasting policies and systems. Join us in making a statewide impact.

FY25 21CCLC Funding Update

Thanks to strong advocacy by families, community members, programs, and elected officials, the Trump Administration reversed its withholding of 21CCLC funding for FY25. At the end of July, the Administration announced that the funding would be released to state education agencies. Read more about the release of funding here.

FY26 Education Spending Bill Released by Senate Appropriations Committee

The Senate Appropriations Committee recently released its proposal for education spending in Fiscal Year 2026 which includes funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers at its current FY25 level of $1.329 billion. This bill still needs to be approved by the full Senate, reconciled with the House bill, and then signed by the president to become law. Read more about FY26 funding here.

ND Quality Standards for OST Programs

As the summer transitions to back-to-school, we recommend reviewing the ND Quality Standards for OST Programs to help your program start the year off with a growth mindset!

The ND Quality Standards for OST Programs are designed to acknowledge the work you do, help take your program to the next level, and guide discussions on improving program quality. They will provide timely and meaningful feedback on program quality and help you determine program priorities.

As a community of afterschool professionals, together we're supporting North Dakota's young people today while strengthening our state's workforce of the future.

Access FREE Cypherworx On-Demand Training

Putting Youth Voice Into Practice with Afterschool Alliance & ND Afterschool Network

August 14 | 10:00 - 11:00am (CST) | Zoom

Sign up for the Amplifying Youth Voice training series for out-of-school time educators and program partners! This series is designed to equip out-of-school time educators and program partners with foundational knowledge and practical tools to engage young people effectively with youth voice initiatives. For OST educators working with youth from elementary through high-school levels, join this live interactive session on August 14th to learn how to put youth voice into practice! Attendees will also learn how to access two on-demand virtual modules: Foundations of Youth Voice and Youth Voice Across Ages and Stages.