Source
Wallace Foundation and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Summary
“The Future of Youth Development: Building Systems and Strengthening Programs provides an updated look at OST programming in the U.S. This report examines the effectiveness of OST programs, identifies access and quality improvements, and outlines a future research agenda for the youth development field.
The review of the evidence base found that the field of youth development has experienced a number of changes over the past two decades. OST programs have become increasingly varied in their settings, programming, and the demographics of children and youth served. There has been greater consideration of cultural responsiveness that has shifted what program quality looks like. Also, while public and private OST funding has increased, so has the demand within communities.
[Related: A lot of hope was pinned on after-school programs — now some are shutting their doors]
The report offers extensive recommendations for federal, state, and local policymakers; intermediaries, such as state afterschool networks, municipal agencies, and nonprofit organizations, that coordinate efforts among program providers; and funders. The recommendations focus on six key goals to better support OST programs:
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- Supporting stable OST funding
- Supporting local OST intermediaries
- Advancing program quality
- Supporting youth development practitioners
- Broadening understanding of OST programs
- Improving understanding of program outcomes
The report also outlines gaps in research around OST programs and needs for further research focused on access and engagement, program quality, staff development, and more.
Key Takeaways
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- OST programs have evolved significantly over the years, and they remain a crucial component of youth and adolescent development.
- OST programs have become more varied in settings and number of youth served; shifted in program quality through cultural responsiveness; and increased their budgets–though still not enough to keep up with demand for programs.
- High-quality OST programs and activities for young people require strong OST systems and organizational capacity; a stable, supported, and well-trained workforce; and programming responsive to the needs of the populations being served.
- Greater investment and policy coordination are necessary to expand access and improve program quality. Some recommendations for policymakers, agencies, and funders include supporting intermediaries, advancing program quality, and supporting the youth development workforce.”
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