AFTERSCHOOL PROFESSIONALS APPRECIATION WEEK

April 22-26, 2024

This week The Quest Zone is joining with the National AfterSchool Association (NAA) to celebrate the professionals who are at the heart of afterschool programs during Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week April 22-47.

“We believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the lives of young people,” said Theresa Tobin-Richardson, Project Manager at The Quest Zone. “We encourage everyone to join us this week in thanking the afterschool professionals in their lives.”

Regional Director Alison Bryant goes on to say, “We offer our heartfelt thanks to these hardworking teachers, and we appreciate them so much; not just this week, but every single day!”

Why is it important to recognize Afterschool Professionals?

An estimated 7.8 million children participate in afterschool programs each year. Today, afterschool programs are viewed as much more than just childcare.

Afterschool programs are widely credited as a way to enhance education in STEM, literacy, the arts, social and emotional learning, health and wellness, and more. With that demand comes increased responsibility for the estimated 850,000 professionals who are making a difference in the lives of our children every day.

What is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week?

Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is a joint effort of community partners, afterschool programs, youth and child care workers, and individuals who have committed to dedicating time to recognize and appreciate those who work with youth during out-of-school hours.

The week is marked by celebrations and public relations efforts to encourage people to thank afterschool professionals serving children in programs and organizations across the nation.

Who is an Afterschool Professional?

An Afterschool Professional is someone who works with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide a wide variety of extended learning opportunities and care during out-of-school hours.

Currently, there is an estimated 850,000 afterschool professionals in the US

How can I thank an Afterschool Professional?

  • Declare on social media: I appreciate the Afterschool Professionals who make a difference in the lives of young people. #heartofafterschool
  • Give a hand-written card from you and/or your child to the afterschool professional in your life.
  • Send an email to an afterschool professional’s supervisor describing why that person is appreciated.
  • Bring treats to the staff at your afterschool program.

For more information about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week visit: www.naaweb.org/AfterschoolProfessionalsAppreciationWeek.