Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is a joint effort of community partners, afterschool programs, youth and child development workers, and individuals who have committed to declaring a full week of April each year to recognize and appreciate those who work with youth during out-of-school hours.

Join us for celebrations and display your appreciation to thank afterschool professionals who make a difference in the lives of young people.

 
 

Tag an Afterschool SUPERSTAR Contest

1) Post a photo of an Afterschool Professional to Facebook or Instagram from April 1st - 23rd.
2) Tag the professional and add #abafterschool.
3) Win a SACDA Associate Membership for you and your friend. 

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What is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week?
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is a time to recognize and appreciate those who work with youth during out-of-school hours. It is a joint effort including community partners, afterschool programs, youth and child care workers, families and individuals. The week is marked by celebrations and public relations efforts to encourage people to thank afterschool professionals who make a difference in the lives of young people in their communities.

When is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week?
April 18th- 22nd, 2021

Who is an AfterSchool Professional?
Afterschool Professionals are skilled individuals who work with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide a wide variety of positive developmental relationships and experiences during out-of-school hours.

Why is it important to recognize Afterschool Professionals?
Millions of children participate in afterschool programs each year, and for every child in an afterschool program, there are two more waiting to get in. Every young person deserves quality afterschool experiences that positively impact their development. It takes skilled professionals to create these experiences. Because of the important role afterschool professionals play in the lives of kids, they deserve recognition and support!

So… How can I celebrate?

For Families
Everyone appreciates being recognized for their efforts and a simple "thank you!" goes a long way!
Some ideas include:

  • Hand-written cards from you and/or your child

  • An email to the staff member's manager or administrator

  • Fun handmade signs put up at the location of your program

  • Healthy or non-food treats for the afterschool program staff

  • Gift cards for a specialty coffee, teacher supply store or bookstore

For Administrators/Managers
Thanking your staff shows them you appreciate what they do!
Some ideas to show your appreciation:

  • Sharing with parents and kids about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week via email or social media

  • Providing healthy treats or lunch for staff

  • Creating awards for specific strengths of staff members (Best Family Communicator, STEM Star, Most Positive, etc.)

  • Sending a Press Release to your local media

For Communities & Affiliate Groups
When communities and organizations with similar missions recognize that afterschool programs and their staff members make a difference in the community, it shines the light on their efforts and accomplishments!
Some ideas include:

  • Sharing about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week in your communications (web site, eNewsletters, social media)

  • Hosting events honoring the success of your local afterschool programs

  • Sending a Press Release to your local media

  • Asking local officials to proclaim the event