Subject: VPOST at the General Assembly and New Program Resources in our December News!

VPOST Advocates for Investments in Quality at the General Assembly

In late November, VPOST shared the newly released Quality Standards for Virginia's Out-of-School Time Programs with the Virginia Commission on Youth. Comprised of state senators and delegates, the commission plays a vital role in shaping policies for Virginia's youth. Our presentation highlighted the importance of bridging the gap in quality support for school-age programs. With recent investments of $9 million since 2022, it’s clear that Virginia is committed to enhancing afterschool and summer learning opportunities for our youth. Our Quality Standards will help ensure these investments see a positive return for children, families, and communities across Virginia! Thanks again to the Commission on Youth for the opportunity to share!

Want to listen to some of the remarks? Check out the coverage on Virginia Public Radio!

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Podcast: Virginia's Journey to State Funding for Summer and Afterschool

In 2024, Virginia became the 23rd of 26 current states to secure public funding through its state legislature. Our Executive Director, Blaire Denson had the opportunity to speak with Hillary Oravec, Subject Matter Expert at the Appalachia Comprehensive Center. Blaire talked about the journey in Virginia to secure $5 million for OST programs across the Commonwealth.

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Opportunity to Showcase Your Commitment to Quality Programs!

Organizations are invited to adopt the Quality Standards for Virginia Out-of-School Time Programs formally. By doing so, your organization will receive a comprehensive tool to guide your quality improvement efforts, gain visibility for its commitment to excellence, and join a growing movement that fosters cohesion across Virginia’s OST programs. View the Sign-On Form here.

Congrats to the First Cohort of VCU PYD Certificate!

Congratulations to the first cohort of the Advanced Certificate in Youth Development at VCU for wrapping up their fall semester. The program provides essential training in the workforce and positive youth development skills for professionals across various sectors, including OST. It spans three semesters and combines coursework with on-site field placements. This semester the cohort members have learned about ACES (adverse childhood experiences), Theory of Change, embodied positive youth development, and more! Special congrats to the program leaders, Dr. Vaughn Garland and Dr. Misti Muller for their leadership in bringing the program to fruition!

Happening Today and Wednesday! Explore Mizzen's Free Learning Resources Platform

Mizzen Education and the New Hampshire Afterschool Network invite you to explore Mizzen's free learning resources platform—filled with 1,800+ lesson plans for grades K - 12 across 10 different content areas.

Through an interactive session, we'll play, connect, and dive into grade-specific content from our trusted partners to fit the needs of your program. This is open to everyone in the United States. Snag your spot here!

NAA 2025

VPOST is the state affiliate for the National Afterschool Association. Join us at their convention in March! Did you know that NAA25 registration prices go up after Dec. 14, 2024? Register today for the lowest rate available! We can’t wait to be together in Nashville next March.

On-Demand Learning from Childcare Aware

Childcare Aware of Virginia has just released a new learning management system to provide asynchronous online training modules tailored specifically for childcare professionals to access at their convenience. Learn more here.

Computer Science Education Week is December 9-15, 2024

CSEdWeek is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity in computer science education, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the field. Check out the CSED Week website for resources including activity plans and professional development for more.

Join ACRES for Monthly Math Tasters

ACRES is kicking off their new Math Taster mini-series with "Numeracy in Nature" perfect for building on youth's natural curiosity and encouraging rich, authentic math conversation. REGISTER HERE

Crayola Creativity Week is January 27-February 02, 2025

Crayola Creativity Week is a free program for schools, libraries, and homes. Join the free celebration, Jan 27-Feb 02, 2025. Get access to seven days of downloadable resources, celebrity activity videos, and giveaways! Learn more here.

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Subject: VPOST at the General Assembly and New Program Resources in our December News!

Opportunity to Showcase Your Commitment to Quality Programs!