This multi-session series focuses on the core elements needed to build and sustain a high-quality out-of-school time (OST) program. Grounded in the LATT Network’s Quality Practices Guide and the Weikart Center’s Pyramid of Program Quality, the series explores how to create safe, structured, and supportive environments that promote youth engagement, interaction, and voice. Participants who complete all sessions (across one or multiple semesters) will earn the Quality Essentials Badge.

Who Should Attend? Sessions are designed for both front-line staff and managers.

When and How to Get Involved:

Dates TBD. The series will be offered in both fall and spring. Most sessions will be in-person, with a virtual option. Stay tuned for details. 

Offered in the fall every year, this training provided by the Center for Child Protection is for all child-serving organizations staff and volunteers who interact with children. It provides a foundation for understanding, identifying, and reporting suspected child abuse in compliance with Texas Family Code 261.001. 

Who Should Attend?: All OST staff and volunteers who want to learn more about recognizing signs of child abuse and reporting. 

When and How to Get Involved: October 1, 2025, 12-1:30 pm

Session is virtual, register here.

Join the Data for Learning Cohort to strengthen your organization or program’s evaluation efforts and build a culture of continuous improvement. You’ll learn about a 5 step evaluation process, develop or refine key questions to guide your evaluation efforts, identify the right data tools—like program observations and attendance data—and create processes to regularly review data and set actionable goals. Whether you're just getting started or looking to deepen existing practices, this cohort will help you build meaningful strategies while connecting with peers to share ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and learn together.

Who Should Join? 

This opportunity is open to up to 4 organizations, and we strongly encourage teams of 2 to participate. While especially helpful for program staff, the cohort is also a great fit for anyone who regularly uses data for program learning, organizational improvement, and/or reporting to funders—including development staff.

In addition to attending sessions, participants should plan to spend 1–2 hours between meetings for homework/reviewing materials, etc. 

When and How to get Involved

Fall Cohort dates:

September 30, 2025 from 12-2 (in-person)

October 21, 12:30-2

November 11, 12:30-2

December 2, 12:30-2

Registration coming soon

Spring Cohort dates, TBD

This four-part series is designed for organizations and programs seeking to better understand, assess, and improve the quality of their out-of-school time offerings. Participants will be introduced to research-based tools such as the Weikart Center’s Youth Program Quality Assessment (YPQA) and the National Institute on Out-of-School Time’s Assessment of Program Practices Tool (APT). You’ll learn how to access training on these tools and begin implementing them within your own program. The series also includes support in how to coach individual staff and teams to strengthen quality practices based on observation results. 

Who should join?

This training is ideal for program leaders, site supervisors, or quality leads who are responsible for supporting strong instruction and positive youth development practices.

It’s also a valuable opportunity for managers or directors who are building systems for continuous quality improvement.

We encourage participation from teams of 2, especially if your organization is looking to build shared understanding and consistent practices across staff.

Space is limited to 4 organizations.

When and How to Get Involved:

Fall Cohort dates: TBD, registration coming soon!

Spring Cohort dates, TBD

Are you a new supervisor or a seasoned one in need of a refresh? Join this interactive cohort series designed specifically for site coordinators or managers who oversee staff.

Through four focused sessions, we’ll cover the core building blocks of effective supervision, including topics such as conducting meaningful check-ins, providing performance feedback, navigating difficult conversations, supporting program quality and the critical role you play in building a high-quality OST workforce.

Whether you're managing your first team or looking to refine your leadership style, this series offers practical tools, peer learning, and real-world strategies to help you supervise with confidence and impact.

Who should join?

This cohort is ideal for OST staff who currently supervise programs or teams—including site coordinators and program managers. It's also a great fit for emerging leaders preparing to step into supervisory roles. 

Fall Session Dates:

TBD

Spring Session Dates:

TBD

The Data for Learning Alumni Group is a monthly gathering designed for alumni of the Data for Learning Cohort or the Quality Practices Cohort Series. This group builds on the knowledge, skills, and tools explored in those programs, with an ongoing focus on strengthening a culture of learning. Each session offers space for connection and peer sharing while also diving into mini training topics in assessment, evaluation, and data—guided by group interests. 

Who Should Join?

Alumni of either the Data for Learning Cohort or Assessing Quality Practices Cohort Series

Session Dates:

Generally the 2nd Monday of each month from 1-2pm.

Registration

Connect with Marisa for details and calendar invite.