May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month
Supporting youth mental health in out-of-school time programs
Youth mental health remains a growing concern as young people navigate academic, social and digital pressures, with many reporting increased stress and disconnection. Insights from the Afterschool Alliance and guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics highlight the critical need for safe, supportive spaces beyond home and school. Out-of-school time programs play a vital role by providing trusted relationships, meaningful engagement, and opportunities for connection—helping reduce stress, build resilience, and support overall youth well-being.
Youth perspectives on designing equitable out-of-school time programs
This youth-led research project provides an indication of how young people from marginalized communities may experience out-of-school-time programming, including that they are sometimes treated differently because of race, gender identity, or other factors.
Youth perspectives highlight that equitable out-of-school time programs must be designed with young people, not just for them, by prioritizing their voices, experiences and leadership. This report emphasizes shifting from deficit-based approaches to strengths-based models that foster belonging, dignity, and meaningful engagement, particularly for youth from marginalized communities. It also calls for systems and funding structures that support equity, elevate youth voice, and ensure programs reflect the needs and identities of the communities they serve.
If you did not register, you can still join us at 11 a.m. for the rally on the Capitol steps. Hear from students, legislators and community leaders and show your support for quality afterschool programs!
Flight Crew Alum Neha Shukla, now a leading AI ethicist, on what’s missing from AI education
A recent feature from STEM Next Opportunity Fund highlights Neha Shukla, a former PSAYDN STEM Next Flight Crew member, now a nationally recognized leader in AI ethics and youth advocacy. The article emphasizes that true AI literacy goes beyond using tools—it requires understanding how AI works, questioning its outputs, and using it responsibly. It also underscores the powerful role of afterschool programs in building this knowledge, empowering youth voice, and preparing young people to shape the future of AI.
Nine Pennsylvania educators selected for STEM Pioneers Teacher Corps
The Penn State College of Education’s Center for Science and the Schools (CSATS) has announced the 27 members selected for the STEM Pioneers Teacher Corps, a program made possible by a $5 million grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) National STEM Teacher Corps Regional Alliance Pilot Program. Representing Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and West Virginia, these educators will engage in multi-year professional development and serve as leaders advancing K–5 STEM education in their schools and communities. Nine teachers are from Pennsylvania. The program emphasizes building a strong network of teacher leaders to expand high-quality STEM learning and inspire the next generation of innovators.
Shapiro-Davis Administration invests more than $65 million in grants to reduce gun violence and expand afterschool initiatives across Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency recently announced more than $65 million in funding to support 177 community-based projects aimed at reducing gun violence and expanding afterschool opportunities across Pennsylvania. This investment highlights the critical role of programs like BOOST in keeping youth safe, engaged and supported during out of school time. By pairing violence prevention strategies with expanded youth programming, the initiative reinforces the importance of investing in young people and strengthening communities statewide.
Afterschool programs facing growing uncertainty according to recent survey
A new survey from the Afterschool Alliance reveals that afterschool programs nationwide are facing growing uncertainty, with concerns about funding stability and long-term sustainability reaching levels not seen since the early days of the pandemic. At the same time, providers report rising concerns about youth mental health, food insecurity, and learning loss, while continuing to serve as critical supports for students and families. The findings underscore the urgent need for sustained investment to ensure programs can remain open, support youth well being, and meet increasing demand.
Proposed federal "skinny budget" would eliminate 21st CCLC funding
On April 3, the Trump Administration released the proposed federal budget for fiscal year 2027. While the budget proposal is a “skinny budget” that does not include all funding details, it does suggest consolidation of federal education funds and elimination of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program, the only federal funding that exclusively supports local, school and community afterschool and summer learning programs. The budget proposal is similar to the one introduced by the Administration last year, however Congress passed a bipartisan spending bill that rejected last year’s proposal and instead maintained and protected federal 21st CCLC afterschool and summer program funding for summer 2026 and the 2026-2027 school year.
A new issue of the Journal of Youth Development, highlighted by the National AfterSchool Association, features the latest research and innovative practices shaping the youth development field. The publication explores topics such as career readiness, civic engagement, and inclusive programming, offering insights that help strengthen out of school time programs and better support diverse youth populations. The issue reinforces the importance of bridging research and practice to advance high quality, impactful youth development efforts.
Low compensation is a big challenge for early educators
New evidence from the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment highlights that low compensation remains one of the biggest challenges facing early educators, impacting their well being and the stability of the workforce. The research shows that improving wages and benefits leads to better recruitment, retention and overall program quality—directly benefiting children and families. It also underscores the need for sustained public investment and policy solutions to ensure early educators are fairly compensated for their critical role in supporting early learning.
States are suing social media companies for harming young people’s mental health. Let's make sure young people benefit.
More than 40 states are taking legal action against major social media companies, alleging their platforms were intentionally designed in ways that harm young people’s mental health. As these lawsuits move forward and potential settlements emerge national partners, including the Afterschool Alliance, are advocating for funds to be invested directly into out-of-school time programs that support youth well-being, connection, and healthy development. The effort highlights a critical opportunity to turn accountability into meaningful investments that help young people thrive beyond the screen.
Research-backed practices for jumpstarting your summer learning program
A recent article from the The Wallace Foundation highlights how high-quality summer and out-of-school time programs can create meaningful opportunities for youth growth and engagement. The research emphasizes that successful programs combine strong instruction, enriching activities, and a positive, supportive climate built on relationships and consistency. It also underscores the importance of intentional planning, skilled staff, and strategies that boost attendance to ensure all young people—especially those furthest from opportunity—can benefit from impactful summer learning experiences.
Vermont’s child care subsidy program expands access and reduces cost
Recent policy changes in Vermont have expanded families’ access to child care subsidies while making care more affordable for families with lower incomes. The number of families in Vermont who received child care subsidies increased by 55% from July 2022 to May 2025, according to a Child Trends brief that explores the effects of Vermont’s policy changes on families’ child care cost burden.
Understanding how much families pay for child care can help states and territories design family payment structures that offer better access to care for families with lower incomes while expanding eligibility to families with higher incomes.
New research from the National Institute on Out-of-School Time (NIOST) highlights the urgent need to strengthen recruitment for the out-of-school time (OST) STEM workforce. The brief underscores ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining qualified staff, while emphasizing the importance of professional development, clear career pathways, and competitive compensation. It also points to OST programs as critical spaces for engaging youth in STEM and building a more diverse future workforce calling for coordinated efforts across policy, funding, and practice to elevate and sustain this essential field.
New policy brief: Afterschool programs are essential partners to build AI literacy and proficiency
A new policy brief from the Afterschool Alliance highlights afterschool programs as essential partners in building AI literacy and preparing a future-ready workforce. The brief emphasizes that these programs uniquely combine STEM learning with critical life skills, youth leadership, and positive relationships, while promoting healthy technology use. It calls on policymakers to invest in funding, professional development, and partnerships to fully leverage afterschool programs as key contributors to emerging technology education.
A recent article from the Mark Cuban Foundation emphasizes that AI is no longer a future concept—it is already shaping how students learn, work, and solve problems today. The piece highlights the urgent need for schools and out of school time programs to move beyond basic tech use and focus on building true AI literacy, including critical thinking, ethics, and real-world application. It reinforces that preparing youth to understand and responsibly use AI is essential to ensuring they are ready for the evolving workforce and future opportunities.
Practical ways to incorporate AI into afterschool programs
A recent resource from STEM Next Opportunity Fund highlights practical ways to incorporate AI into afterschool programs by making learning approachable, hands-on, and relevant for youth. The guidance emphasizes starting with curiosity, building true understanding of how AI works, and connecting learning to real-world careers rather than just tools. It also points to a growing ecosystem of free resources that help educators confidently introduce AI, ensuring young people are prepared with the knowledge and skills needed for an AI-driven future.
The Lights On Afterschool (LOA) poster contest is officially open, and this year, we’re looking for any artwork that represents the spirit of afterschool programs. This includes murals, paintings, graphics on social media, and anything else that celebrates afterschool.
Be creative! We encourage students to think of how your program has opened new opportunities for you and your friends. Look for artwork that can represent how afterschool staff has been an inspiration or a mentor to you. Did your program help you find your passion for learning how to code? Is your favorite part of afterschool sharing a snack with your best friend? Let us know in the form of art! Be sure to include the entry form and the name or program name of the person who designed the artwork.
The Lights On Afterschool poster contest is open to everyone. If you know of a program that may be interested, please spread the word!
There's never been a more important time in our lives to advocate for effective public education. With over 700 graduates from the past 27 years, the Pennsylvania Education Policy Fellowship Program is a unique 8-month learning experience that deepens your understanding of state and federal education policy, refines your leadership and communication skills in the advocacy environment, and expands your network of professionals.
A cohort of about 25-30 Fellows each year includes leaders from early childhood, K-12, postsecondary and higher ed, the PA Department of Education, the U.S. Army War College, the PA General Assembly, and many public education advocacy and membership organizations. They strive to create a diverse cohort of various perspectives and representation from across the Commonwealth.
OBPP Community Youth Organization (CYO) Coach Course
Save the Date! Sept. 22-23 | Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program (OBPP) Community Youth Organization (CYO) Coach Course provides youth-serving organizations with practical strategies to prevent bullying, reduce incidents of bullying, and enrich peer relationships in out-of-school settings. The CYO Coach Course prepares youth program leaders to train and support a community youth organization with implementation of the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program.
Community Asset Mapping: Creating Empowering Pathways to Community Development
May 27, 10:00 AM-11:30 AM | Virtual
Community asset mapping is a tool for anyone looking to build stronger, more connected, and more resilient communities. Rather than focusing on deficits or gaps, this strengths-based approach helps identify and map the resources, relationships, and capacities that already exist in our communities—offering a more empowering path to community development.
Whether you’re starting a new initiative, seeking additional services for students, or fostering cross-sector collaboration, asset mapping can help you unlock the potential already present in your schools and communities. In this session, you will learn strategies for implementing community asset mapping in your communities, including gathering data, connecting with key community stakeholders, and brainstorming steps to take action. We encourage you to bring a colleague to support next steps in action! Act 48 is available.
Why your students need (some) extrinsic motivation
A recent article from Edutopia highlights that while extrinsic motivation—such as rewards or incentives—often gets a negative reputation, it can be an effective tool to help students get started, especially on low-interest tasks. The piece emphasizes using extrinsic motivators strategically and temporarily, with the goal of transitioning students toward intrinsic motivation, where curiosity and personal interest drive learning. When used thoughtfully, this balance can increase engagement, persistence, and overall student success.
Youth sports as a path to mental health, physical wellness, and equity
A recent article from Positive Coaching Alliance highlights how youth sports can play a powerful role in supporting mental health, physical wellness, and equity. Participation in sports is linked to higher self esteem, improved academic outcomes, and stronger overall well-being, while also building critical life skills like teamwork and resilience. The piece emphasizes that creating positive, inclusive, and accessible sports environments is key to ensuring all young people—especially those from underserved communities—can benefit from these opportunities.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Connections Corner is a centralized resource hub designed to connect educators, families and community partners with the Office of School Climate and Well-Being. It provides easy access to supports, tools and guidance across key areas such as mental health, school safety, and family engagement. The resource reinforces the importance of collaboration and coordinated support systems to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students.
Pennsylvania's investments in student mental health
The Pennsylvania Department of Education highlights the Shapiro Administration’s continued investments in student mental health, including expanded school-based supports and increased access to counselors and services. These efforts are already improving student outcomes by creating safer, more supportive learning environments that help students stay engaged and succeed. The initiative reinforces that prioritizing mental health is essential to strengthening education systems and preparing students for long-term success.
The U.S. Department of Education’s OSEP (Office of Special Education Programs) Fast Facts provide key data on children and youth with disabilities served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). These snapshots highlight trends in enrollment, educational settings, personnel, and outcomes—offering a clear, data-driven view of how states are supporting students from early childhood through age 21. The resource helps policymakers, educators, and advocates better understand needs and drive improvements in special education services.
Proposed legislation to support young entrepreneurs in 21st CCLC programs
U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) introduced legislation to connect students enrolled in 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) with mentors from the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) to develop their professional skills in entrepreneurship.
The National AfterSchool Association recently recognized the top-rated sessions from its NAA26 Convention, highlighting standout presentations that delivered engaging, practical, and impactful learning experiences for youth development professionals. These sessions reflected the field’s focus on belonging, resilience, and innovative strategies, while elevating diverse voices and real-world applications. The recognition underscores the importance of high-quality professional development that equips providers with tools and inspiration to strengthen out of school time programs.
The Collective for Youth Empowerment in STEM & Society (CYESS), an initiative of the Afterschool Alliance, is elevating youth voice through its Youth Consultants program—engaging young people ages 13–22 as leaders, advisors, and changemakers in their communities.
As young leaders affiliated with CYESS partners and related organizations, the Youth Consultants are self-identified experts on a variety of topics, and are eager to provide their input and expertise to policy, industry, and program professionals. Adults can request to tap the expertise of the Youth Consultants, and youth can sign up to become one!
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s Gun Violence Data and Resource Hub provides a centralized collection of data, tools and research to better understand and prevent gun violence across the Commonwealth. Framing gun violence as both a public health and public safety issue, the hub offers insights on trends, impacts, and key risk factors—along with resources to support community-based prevention efforts. It highlights the importance of data-driven strategies, cross-sector collaboration, and targeted investments to reduce violence and improve safety for Pennsylvania communities.
Best Day Ever! brand new summer 2026 OST lesson plans from The Learning Lamp
Best Day Ever! is designed to support out-of-school-time providers with easy-to-use, standards-aligned lessons that make the most of summer time and reduce lesson planning burdens on staff. Written by certified teachers and tested (and loved!) by kids, the plans are offered at NO COST to Pennsylvania providers. The program offers a ready-made solution for preschool and school-age summer camps. Each lesson is designed to keep children engaged with hands-on activities that reinforce learning while ensuring plenty of fun.
Pennsylvania Afterschool Youth Development Network (PSAYDN) is an initiative of Center for Schools and Communities, division of Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit
275 Grandview Avenue, Suite 200, Camp Hill,PA,17011
