Coaching & Learning for After School Professionals
Coaching & Learning for Afterschool Professionals (CLASP) was created to provide after school professionals with the space and support needed to network, problem solve, and learn with colleagues from across the state. Past CLASP cohorts have included topics such as social emotional learning, intentional programming, researching problems of practice in programs, and out-of-school time best practices. For 2021 we have expanded the CLASP program with a STEM cohort and another focused on program design and management. The goal of each CLASP cohort was to provide after school practitioners with research-based, applicable content, and opportunities for networking and building leadership skills.
CLASP STEM was created to provide a deeper understanding and how to implement STEM in the after school space. Out-of-school time is an excellent place to explore fun, unique STEM practices and opportunities for young people.
CLASP SEL was created to provide after school professionals with the space and support needed to network, problem solve and learn with colleagues from across the state. The cohort consisted of in-person and virtual workshops, practices, conversations, and advocacy actions for Social and Emotional Learning.
CLASP PRO (Practical, Reflective, Operations) – The Network developed CLASP PRO building off our successful CLASP (Coaching and Learning for After School Professionals) program, this exciting cohort offered participants the opportunity to think about their programs in a practical, and reflective way that helped create smoother operations at the program level.
Frequently Asked Questions
CLASP is cohort based professional development that is focused on developing skills to help improve program quality and help leaders better assess and solve issues that occur within afterschool programs. Over the course of a typical CLASP program, participants will work with state and national experts that will help identify and dig deeper into common problems programs face. Through this process, those involved in the CLASP program make larger connections to the field including papers and presentations as well as develop peer relationships that will offer support for years to come.
Those interested will be required to fill out an application. All CLASP Cohort have a yearlong commitment. Meeting dates are set during the first meeting to fulfill everyone’s availability.
Participants will be provided course materials, lunch & refreshments (in-person sessions), and can participate in exclusive CLASP alumni events. As part of the cohort, you will connect with state and national experts on a wide range of topics related to after school and summer programming relevant to common problems of practice. Additionally, your participation in CLASP connects you with past cohort’s participants.
Applications are typically open depending on the cohorts start date and running. Prospective participants need to fill out the online application. Late applications will be accepted but applicants may not be accepted into the program. All chosen participants will receive email confirmation before the start of each chort session.
Past Cohort Participants
“I love how STEM enables an individual to think differently and really understand the how and why an object or situation. I absolutely love getting new project ideas from our session. Joining CLASP STEM pushes us out of our comfort zone and broadens our professional skills.” – Emily Snow
“I attended Clasp for the first time this year and I cannot tell you how glad I am for the experience! The class was informative, and I had a chance to experience working with fellow after-school educators who understand the groundwork and programmatic challenges of the work. Dr. Ken Athonthy’s energy, commitment, vision, and information made the workshops incredible!” – Tiana Brown
“CLASP is a unique experience and one I have never had with a grantor before. In addition to funding support, clasp allows for program directors to discuss what’s working, what’s not and share ideas with one another while receiving research-based solutions. This helps to enhance the afterschool experience for staff, students and families as a whole.” – Wendy Gerbier