The after-school workforce is like no other, exceedingly diverse by design. They are teachers and teaching assistants, artists, child development specialists, parents, retired professionals, college and high school students and volunteers. They are role models for kids, reflecting the schools and communities in which they work. In TASC programs, they reflect the richness of New York City’s cultural talent pool. Each TASC program is directed by a fulltime after-school site coordinator, but the majority of after-school staff members work part-time.
The adults who work in after-school programs play a critical role in the lives of kids and teens. They provide vital support for their social, emotional and cognitive development. They are encouraged to take advantage of the less formal after-school environment to forge strong relationships that strengthen kids’ ties to school.
Research shows that programs are most successful when staff members are well-trained, skilled at building relationships and supported in working with kids. From its founding, TASC has committed to providing training and professional development for this workforce in order to sustain high quality programs for kids and retain dedicated staff members.
In partnership with leading training organizations and consultants, TASC has built a training framework that ensures that all staff members are schooled in the fundamental core competencies, including child health and development, behavior management and safety. In addition, they have ample opportunities to improve their practice and to learn from peers and experienced leaders. TASC addresses the special needs of after-school staff by sharing materials, curricula and activities that are ideal for the after-school hours, and for delivery by staff members without teaching degrees.
TASC offers frontline staff the concrete strategies and practical advice they need to realize their visions for programs, build strong partnerships and manage kids and other staff members. TASC provides training and networking opportunities at every level from novices to senior leaders. TASC makes training convenient for its part-time staff members - many of whom have other responsibilities - by offering training at program sites and paying staff members for their time. Every TASC program provider can choose from a multitude of specialized workshops each year to help staff members respond to the goals of their schools and the needs of their kids.
TASC launched The Center for After-School Excellence to create new opportunities for the after-school workforce to earn college credits and professional credentials.
