This is your weekly newsletter featuring program spotlights, innovative resources, and training opportunities for the out-of-school-time industry in Florida. Together, we can ensure all children and youth in Florida have access to affordable, available, high-quality expanded learning opportunities to foster their success in school and beyond. | |
STEM Peer Learning Community Mini-Grant | We are recruiting ten afterschool professionals to participate in the next Florida STEM Peer Learning Community (PLC) through the Million Girls Moonshot Initiative. Selected individuals will receive $500 to support their participation. | | | | |
If you have an idea for an afterschool spotlight or would like to be featured, email Holly to help share your story! | |
Florida program will send struggling readers free books to boost literacy | A Florida program will send Central Florida students reading below grade level free books and other reading-related activities until they graduate fifth grade. Even though 4% more students are reading at grade level in Florida this year compared with last, 47% of third to tenth graders in the state are still reading below grade level. Florida program New Worlds Reading wants to help by sending VPK to fifth graders reading below grade level a free book every month of the school year. | | | | |
Florida Virtual School and National Center For Simulation partner to transform STEM education with cutting-edge simulation training | This initiative will provide FLVS students enrolled in the full time option with virtual tools like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), 3D printers, robotics, and various simulators, allowing students in the online learning environment to become more confident in STEM and develop problem-solving skills. | | | |  |
Miami Heat, Dolphins host giveaways to children across South Florida in anticipation for the holiday season | South Florida sports organizations did their part to spread holiday cheer to children across the region in preparation for the holidays. | | | | |
Foundation for Lee County Public Schools receives $10K for 'STEM' education | The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools is getting $10,000. That money will support STEM-focused education in Positively Southwest Florida. | | | | |
It's a Very Merry Chimpmas for STEM Students | Christmas with the Chimps! For at least ten years, the School District of Palm Beach County and Lion Country Safari have teamed up for a special event that allows students to explore their creativity and teamwork by designing and building enrichment gifts for the chimpanzees. | | | | |
December resources from Million Girls Moonshot | Check out trainings, ACRES Monthly Math Tasters, Transformative Practices, and activities for December 2024. | | | | |
The 2025-26 FAFSA Is Now Available to Everyone. Here Are 5 Things to Know Before You Apply | Don't wait to fill out this financial aid form. Getting an early start can help maximize your award. | | | | |
After$chool Funding: Full-Service Community Schools | Welcome to our series on funding and sustainability for afterschool and summer learning programs! The Full-Service Community Schools (FSCS) Program helps schools provide a comprehensive range of services to children and families. These services include family engagement, mentoring, youth development programs, job training, career counseling, and mental health services. | | | | |
LEARNING FROM OTHERS: Detroit after-school program mentoring children through art, music looking to expand | A unique after-school program in Southwest Detroit combines tutoring, music and mentorship. Now in its fourth year, New City Kids is looking to expand. | | | | |
Exploring STEM career pathways in afterschool | Without clear pathways into STEM careers, many young people—especially those from underrepresented communities—are missing out on opportunities in fields that are shaping the future. The ACRES program illuminates these pathways using virtual coaching to equip afterschool educators with strategies for facilitating career-connected STEM experiences with youth. | | | | |
|
|
|
ACRES Monthly Math Taster Events: Numeracy in Nature
Webinar: Thursday, December 19 from 1PM-2PM
| ACRES (Afterschool Coaching for Reflective Educators in STEM) is excited to be offering monthly Math Tasters! December's session, Numeracy in Nature, will focus on ways to use natural materials to represent math problems, finding and understanding math in nature, and using math to investigate authentic outdoor math problems. You will gain access to a hub of resources to explore as well as activities you can use immediately. | | | |
|
NAA: Promote digital learning in afterschool | Learn how to create or improve your messaging about digital learning in your program for different audiences so you can more effectively promote how your program incorporates digital learning and uses technology. | | | |
|
|
Youth Mental Health First Aid Course | Youth Mental Health First Aid is a course for participants 18 years and older who want to learn how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who may be experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. This course is designed for adults who regularly interact with young people, including parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens. | | | |
|
|
WATCH: Empowering Youth Through STEM & Civic Engagement: Tools for Educators in Out-of-School Time Programs | This session features insights from experts at the Collective for Youth Empowerment in STEM & Society (CYESS), Earth Force, and Teen Science Café Network, offering you practical tools and fresh ideas to engage older youth in innovative ways. | | | |
|
Afterschool Virtual Resource Fair
Wednesday, February 26 at 11:30 AM
| Join us for a Virtual Resource Fair where you'll discover valuable tools, services, and partnerships to support your programs. Connect with vendors, explore new resources, and gain insights-all from the comfort of your home or office! | | | |
Celebrate yourself and others at NAA 2025 Convention from March 9-12, 2025 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee! Learn & Connect: Afterschool professionals will be recognized in their work and gain practical tips, proven strategies, and new ideas at NAA25. Every learning session values human connection and inspired learning. | | | |
REGISTRATION OPENS IN JANUARY | |
|
Florida After School, Inc. | FLafterschool.com
For more information about Florida After School, Inc. and its many partners, connect with us on social media.
| | | | |
