Congratulations to the first graduating class of

Palm Beach County Afterschool Educators!

Amber Waddell, Ashanta Vann, Brittany Terry, Cara Conlogue, Chelsea Preston, Daniella Klarmann, Doneisha Dillard, Elsa Martinez, Emily Shaw, Ernestina Valdez, Heather Emerson, Jana Hernandez, Jerry Thomas, Johnny Jules, Jorel Beache, Joseph Alcide, Jowie Mohammed, Max Michel, Melissa Rosario, Michele Thompson, Micheline Alcin, Omi Torres, Rona Sears, Royce Deale, Sandy Rambaran, Sandy Asaint-Jules, Sesily Edwards, Stephanie Myer

During the fall semester, 28 afterschool practitioners committed to being a part of the first cohort of students to go through the Palm Beach County-Afterschool Educator Certificate pilot program. Along with this commitment came an opportunity to increase their knowledge, skills and practice in youth development; to apply their new skills, and to earn $1,200 while going through the program. Topics covered in this certificate program included: academics in afterschool, creating positive social/emotional environments, inclusion strategies, play strategies, youth leadership, cooperative learning, planning, reflection and more hands-on practical application techniques that could be implemented immediately.

 Here’s what some of the participants had to say:

“Thank you so much for putting QIS into perspective! I am so thankful I have materials to make my group successful.”

 “I learned numerous techniques that can be applied with any age group and with management/supervisory roles.”

 “Very practical and hands-on.  Very vital information for understanding individuals with special needs and working with children with special needs.”

 “This training showed the importance of having literacy/reading as a part of our program. This is an awesome class and I would recommend it to anyone that is working with children!”

 Classes are starting February 10th and February 17th and space is limited! If you are interested in being a part of this extraordinary training program please contact a member of the professional development team for more details.