Commentary by Carmel Parks and Recreation
Indianapolis will welcome the National AfterSchool Association annual convention to the Indianapolis Convention Center from April 7 to 10. The NAA is the primary voice of the after school profession and is “dedicated to the development, education and care of children and youth during their out-of-school hours.”
The NAA annual convention contains the most all-inclusive series of professional development opportunities for after school professionals anywhere in the United States. As an added bonus, the 2013 convention will mark the 25th anniversary of the NAA annual convention. Convention attendees will celebrate 25 years of commitment, dedication and passion for making a positive impact in the lives of children and youth.
Children can often spend as much time in before/after school and summer programs as they do in the classroom. As a result, providing youth with high-quality, out-of-school time programs is paramount to success in school, college, work and life. Time spent in these programs offers children opportunities for personal growth, character development, academic support, enrichment activities, socialization and active play. Providing these opportunities to the Carmel community is precisely what Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation’s Extended School Enrichment program strives to achieve.
One of the convention highlights is the opportunity for attendees to visit local programs during a site visit. This year, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation’s ESE program is proud to provide the NAA convention attendees the opportunity to visit two after school programs in Carmel. Forest Dale Elementary and Mohawk Trails Elementary will open their doors to give convention visitors the opportunity to observe a few of the high-quality youth programs happening in greater Indianapolis
All elementary school sites are comprised of the same core components of ESE, with each school customized to serve the best interests of the students and parents/guardians. The program emphasizes communication and problem solving skills and encourages students to work as a cohesive team, and to think independently, creatively, and critically in applying academic and social skills. Both sites are elated to have convention attendees visit their respective sites and look forward to the opportunity to spotlight their programs. For more information on the ESE program, please visit www.carmelclayparks.com/ese.
