Lessons Learned in a Large-Scale Engagement of Provider and Youth Feedback for Out-of-School Time Program Improvement

• In Event: The Promise of Youth Feedback: Exploring Participation Outcomes in Diverse Out-of-School Time Program Settings

Abstract

In the interest of continuous improvement and realigning supports to address impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, a large NYC-based overseer of out-of-school time (OST) programs sought to engage providers and youth to understand, from implementer and participant perspectives, recommendations for improvement of a large after school program model serving nearly 1,000 schools and recreation centers across the city. Though results are specific to this local context, this methodological paper details successes and challenges of the stakeholder engagement process, with implications and recommendations for other large-scale networks seeking to elevate voices of those on the ground and experiencing their programs firsthand.

Authors

• Isabella Fante, ExpandED Schools
  Presenting Author

• Astrid Spota-Wolfe, NYC Department of Youth and Community Development
  Presenting Author

• Dana Laventure, NYC Department of Youth and Community Development
  Presenting Author