Working with You to Build a Strong Professional Network Across Massachusetts!
 
Build the Out-of-School Time Network

Building skilled staff, strong programs and healthy youth
 

Now is the time for Massachusetts to have a strong professional association that is responsive to the needs of the out-of-school time workforce!

Founded twenty-one years ago, Build the Out-of-School Time Network (BOSTnet) is an innovative intermediary that connects a diverse field of youth programs that enrich the lives of children during the critical hours they spend out-of-school. We provide research and information on the field; improve program quality through capacity building and professional development; and play an active role in efforts to develop statewide systems that support OST providers. BOSTnet currently works with a large network of over 500 programs in Boston, the North Shore and other regions, providing training, technical assistance and research-based tools, peer networking, and online resources that focus on foundational quality improvement strategies. We are excited to expand this network to programs across the Commonwealth.

As the new Massachusetts affiliate of the National Afterschool Association (NAA), BOSTnet is positioned to build upon the important work of our partners and regional OST leaders to expand our current network across Massachusetts and play an even greater role in state and national initiatives to strengthen professionalism in the field. We also recognize that a robust statewide network is about building community—strengthening connections between youth workers and OST educators in Massachusetts and nationally.

As the recently convened Special Commission on After School and Out-of-School Time made very clear, we need to work together to strengthen the identity of field as the natural pathway to healthy youth development; improve our ability to connect, collaborate and communicate; develop the quality of our workforce; and build new streams of funding that serve the professional needs of the field. We must also recognize the importance of a strong professional identity to help us recruit and retain the highest quality staff possible. With the NAA’s renewed focus on providing meaningful provider services, this is a critical time for Massachusetts to have a strong member-driven network that is responsive to the needs of youth programs.

Click here to read more about member benefits and to Join Today!

Please check back often, we will continue to update this page as we add more services and resources for our network.

To learn more about BOSTnet’s innovative work, please visit our Initiatives Page.