<p>&nbsp;In this episode, we talk with Derryck Fletcher of the Y of Central Maryland&mdash;the state&rsquo;s largest provider of youth development programs. During our conversation we discuss the importance of cultivating strong partnerships with schools and families to develop high-quality afterschool programs that meet children where they are.&nbsp;</p>

Implementing a Quality Improvement System: Changing Process, Changing Mindset, Changing Outcomes

Each day, over 10 million children participate in afterschool programs. Working parents rely on these programs to keep their children learning, growing and safe during the gap hours—after the school day ends, but before parents come home from work. Parents also rely on these afterschool programs to be staffed and run by professionals who have training and expertise in working with children and youth.
 
In a series of podcasts, NAA Executive Director Gina Warner will speak to researchers, experts, practitioners and funders about afterschool quality—what it is, how to achieve it  and why it is imperative.