Creating an Ecosystem of Out-of-school Time Opportunities

AASA continues to diligently work collaboratively on the Engage Every Student (EES) initiative to ensure that every student who wishes to participate in a high-quality out-of-school time program has the opportunity to do so. Youth-centered programming plays an invaluable role in reducing chronic absenteeism and providing whole child support during academic recovery.

This webinar will provide an overview of transformational changes among districts and program providers that put equity and youth voice at the core. Hear from experts as they overcome inconsistency of program implementation among school sites, strain of resources and lack of student buy-in. Moderator
Ashley Dawson, project coordinator, Children's Programs, AASA
Ashley is devoted to leveraging marginalized populations in prevention, promotion and education. Through her background of nonprofit work, Ashley has engaged in upstream approaches to alleviate priority health concerns (mental health, chronic diseases and communicable diseases) impeding the health system. As project coordinator for AASA, Ashley supports and assists with major grant projects focused on offsetting risky behavior, expanding out of school time and building resiliency among youth. As a public health professional and Master of Public Health student, Ashley keenly aids in equitable development of system change.


Presenters
Jorge Perez, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater Cincinnati (Ohio)
Jorge Perez’s family originates from Mexico. He is a first-generation American and college graduate (BA, MACE, MBA). Jorge is a nationally recognized leader, an accomplished strategist, a mission champion and a 28-year veteran of the YMCA. Currently, Jorge serves as the CEO of the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati, where he is a champion for kids and healthy environments that help people grow. Jorge is married (Amy) and has two adult daughters (Olivia and Bella).



Dawn Bridges, vice president of educational affairs, Right At School
Dawn Bridges has dedicated her career to ensuring that all students have the support they need to thrive in and out of school. As the vice president of educational affairs for Right At School, she collaborates with educators and administrators to support school districts to best meet the needs of all students before, during and beyond the hours of the traditional school day. Dawn has more than 25 years of experience in the fields of education and professional learning, having held the roles of teacher, reading specialist, special education coordinator, principal and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. She also serves as program lead for the AASA SEL Cohort, which works to support school district leaders in developing and implementing SEL and trauma-informed frameworks to provide a holistic support system for all students.

Theresa Plascencia, superintendent of schools, Waukegan (Ill.) Public Schools
As a first-generation college graduate, Plascencia has made social activism and equity the key focus of her educational career, with an emphasis on providing all students with the tools they need to be successful in society. Prior to joining Waukegan Public Schools, Theresa worked at Chicago Public Schools as the executive director of high school programs, designs and supports. Previously, she served as the chief of network 7 in CPS, where she oversaw 29 schools with nearly 17,500 students. Theresa has been recognized with the National Champions of Equity Award by the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) in part for being a voice for superintendents during a time of crisis.