Jump Start 2026: Full Schedule

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

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7:30am MDT

Exhibit Hall

Saturday October 10, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am MDT

Visit the Exhibit Hall on the 1st and 2nd floors! Find your Exhibitor Bingo card in your bag and start collecting signatures from our exhibitors. We have some amazing prizes up for grabs!
Once your card is complete with all exhibitor signatures, turn it in at the registration desk for your chance to win.

Saturday October 10, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am MDT
First and Second Floor

7:30am MDT

Registration Attendee Check-in

Saturday October 10, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am MDT

Second Floor

Registration is located on the 2nd floor, outside of the Grand Ballroom. Enjoy breakfast and network with your colleagues before the conference begins.

Saturday October 10, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am MDT
Second Floor

7:30am MDT

Networking Breakfast

Saturday October 10, 2026 7:30am - 9:30am MDT

Grand Ballroom

Saturday October 10, 2026 7:30am - 9:30am MDT
Grand Ballroom

9:00am MDT

Opening Session and Keynote Address

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am MDT

Grand Ballroom

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am MDT
Grand Ballroom

10:30am MDT

Exhibitor Exploration and Networking Break

Saturday October 10, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MDT

First and Second Floor

Visit the Exhibit Hall located on the 1st & 2nd floor.

Saturday October 10, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MDT
First and Second Floor

11:00am MDT

Beyond Supervision: Coaching Staff for Growth and Impact

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 102

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how adopting a coaching mindset as a supervisor can transform everyday interactions with staff into meaningful opportunities for fostering connection, growth, confidence, and ultimately, stronger program quality. We'll explore when to lead, when to manage, when to mentor, and when to coach; practice giving feedback that is both human-centered and actionable; strategize navigating difficult conversations with confidence and empathy; and learn tools for helping staff set goals, solve problems, and reflect on their own practice. Leave with practical coaching tools, conversation frameworks, and immediately implementable strategies that cultivate a positive team culture and strengthen staff performance to create the conditions for young people to thrive.

Speakers

Hailee Moehnke (she/her)

Community Engagement + Experiences Manager, Mizzen Education

Mizzen Education is a completely free platform offering 1500+ plug-and-play lesson plans for grades K-12 across 10 content areas, at your fingertips. Plus, find free team collaboration tools to keep program planning simple! Whether you're at a camp, classroom, community center, or... Read More →

Kristin Stayer (she/her)

VP of Engagement + Educator Experiences, Mizzen Education

Kristin Stayer, Mizzen’s VP of Engagement + Educator Experiences, is dedicated to creating inspiring experiences for youth learning and staff development.

Kristin previously served as the National Manager of Curriculum and Content Development for After-School All-Stars, empowering students for 21st-century learning. Prior, she spent a decade at Park Place Community Center in Anderson, Indiana, addressing educational, health, and food... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 102

Admin Leadership Track, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

11:00am MDT

Empowering the Next Generation: A Youth Leadership Training

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Ballroom 3

Limited Capacity seats available

This training will benefit program coordinators and staff who are interested in building leadership skills in youth.You will learn to teach tangible leadership skills that youth can practice within the afterschool environment and carry into their adult lives. These include peer mentoring, conflict resolution, activity planning, service learning, group leadership, and advocacy.This training will equip you with tools and strategies to cultivate a strong youth leadership component in your program. By empowering youth to take ownership, serve as positive role models, and lead with purpose, you can boost engagement, improve program quality, and create a more meaningful and impactful afterschool environment.

Speakers

Mason Pappas

Afterschool Consultant, Utah Afterschool Network

Before joining UAN as an Afterschool Consultant, Mason Pappas, a Utah native, spent five years working in afterschool and summer programs with the YMCA in Salt Lake City and Ogden. His passion for youth development began while working as a school custodian at a site that hosted afterschool... Read More →

Lilianna Akalonu

Family Liaison, Promise South Salt Lake

This year, Lili Akalonu will celebrate 10 years of working in afterschool programs, but her journey in afterschool started long before that. At just 8 years old, Lili became a club kid at the Boys & Girls Club, where her passion for becoming an afterschool leader first began. That... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Ballroom 3

Developing High Quality Programs, Program Planning and Development

Program Serving Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth

11:00am MDT

Basecamp to Summit: A Facilitated Path to Building Leaders

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Ballroom 1

Limited Capacity seats available

Leadership isn't a solo climb; it's bringing your team with you. In this facilitated session, Felix Bobo, an after-school administrator, walks program directors, site coordinators, and future leaders through The Climb: casting a clear vision for where the organization/team is headed (the Summit), taking honest stock of the foundation already in place (Basecamp), and recognizing that what got the team here may not get them where they're going. Participants identify, in their own words, the real obstacles standing in their way (Challenges), and explore why even strong leaders need the support of others to bring a vision to life (Support).

Speakers

Felix Bobo

CEO, Unlimited University

Felix Bobo is a keynote speaker, former school counselor, and expanded learning leader with more than 20 years of experience helping students, educators, and communities thrive. As the founder of Unlimited University, he partners with schools and youth-serving organizations to strengthen... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Ballroom 1

Emerging Leaders, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

11:00am MDT

Habits for Health and Happiness

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Grand Ballroom B

Limited Capacity seats available

When emotions run high, it’s easy to feel exhausted and make choices that don't lead to lasting happiness. But what if the key to navigating those moments starts with the habits we build every day? The healthy choices we model and encourage in children can shape their futures for years to come. Join us as we explore a holistic approach to health—connecting physical wellness, mental well-being, and meaningful relationships—to create positive habits and lifestyles where children can truly thrive.

Speakers

Kristen Knoche

Lead Afterschool Consultant, Utah Afterschool Network

Kristen Knoche is an Afterschool Consultant with the Utah Afterschool Network. She graduated from UVU with a bachelor's degree in Speech Communication. She has enjoyed advocating for youth with multiple organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, UVU PREP, GEAR UP, Community... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Grand Ballroom B

Healthy Eating and Physical Activity | Safety & Wellness, Safety and Wellness

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Safety and Wellness

11:00am MDT

Addressing Bullying Behavior

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 202

Limited Capacity seats available

Helping students who are involved in “bullying behavior” develop
their prosocial skills contributes to a positive classroom environment.
In this training, you will learn best practices for intervening and
resolving bullying scenarios.

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 202

Prevention, Safety and Wellness

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Safety and Wellness
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth

11:00am MDT

Beyond the Survey: Turning Student Data into Meaningful Action with Terrace Metrics

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 101

Limited Capacity seats available

Afterschool leaders, site coordinators, educators, and youth development professionals are invited to discover how resilience data can strengthen programming and improve outcomes for youth. This interactive session explores how Terrace Metrics connects resilience assessment results with practical, evidence-informed lessons and strategies that support social-emotional learning, behavior, and student success. Through real-world examples and hands-on activities, participants will learn how to identify student strengths and needs, select targeted interventions, and use data to guide continuous program improvement. Attendees will leave with practical tools, implementation ideas, and a framework for creating more intentional, responsive afterschool programs that help every young person thrive.

Speakers

Rich Gilman

President and Co-Founder, Terrece Metrics

Dr. Rich Gilman is President and Co-Founder of Terrace Metrics, where he helps schools and organizations use resilience science to improve behavioral health, well-being, and performance. A licensed child and clinical psychologist, Dr. Gilman has held faculty positions at Georgia State... Read More →

Kathleen Bideaux

Managing Member and Founder, Elevate Consulting UT

Kathleen Bideaux is the founder and principal consultant of Elevate Consulting UT, where she partners with nonprofits, government agencies, schools, and community organizations to strengthen programs, build organizational capacity, and secure sustainable funding. Throughout her career... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 101

Prevention, Safety and Wellness

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8.9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

11:00am MDT

Staying in your Window: Understanding the Window of Tolerance

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Ballroom 2

Limited Capacity seats available

This presentation will lead the attendees through what the Window of Tolerance is and how it impacts students' behavior in the classroom. Attendees will be given the science behind regulation of students and self, what happens when students' environment moves beyond their own windows and how to better help students stay within their own windows so that learning can occur.

Speakers

Amie Huggins

TBRI Coach for Schools, Raise the Future

Amie Huggins M.Ed. has been a teacher in the classroom for 30 years. She has also a foster/adopt mom, a grandma and a TBRI Practitioner. She is the co-author of the book Creating a Connected Classroom with Marti Smith. Her dream is that all people who work with kids understand the... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Ballroom 2

Prevention, Child/Youth Growth and Development

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth

11:00am MDT

Space, Paper, AI! Hands-On ESTEAM Challenges for Every Classroom

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 203

Limited Capacity seats available

Whether your program has zero access or one-to-one devices, this workshop meets you where you are. Experience an engaging, space-themed ESTEAM Design Thinking Challenge that stands alone as a no-tech prototyping activity or becomes an AI-powered learning experience, bridging together entrepreneurship, creativity, and science. You'll build, experiment, and play your way through adaptable lessons designed for any K-12 environment!

Speakers

Lindly Fernandez

Program Coordinator, VentureLab

Imagine a future where every young person is ready to dream big, tackle real challenges, and create what comes next. VentureLab makes entrepreneurship and STEM accessible to ALL youth through hands-on experiences that build creativity, collaboration, and resilience. Our evidence-based... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 203

STEM, Learning Environments and Curriculum

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Learning Environments and Curriculum

11:00am MDT

Social Development Strategy in the Classroom and Beyond

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 201

Limited Capacity seats available

With most students spending about 20% of their year in a classroom, creating bonds with teachers and afterschool professionals provides students with protective factors that last beyond the classroom into adulthood. In this interactive and connecting breakout session, attendees will walk away with proven strategies to provide opportunities, skills, and recognition to youth to promote healthy outcomes. Every child needs one trusted adult to believe in them. We provide a way to become that person for the youth in our community.

Speakers

Lori Larsen

Suicide Prevention Coordinator, Weber Human Services

Lori Larsen has worked in the mental health field for the past seven years serving people with mental illness and substance use disorder. She managed and ran two residential facilities with 28 staff, and up to 36 clients. Her passion for helping people improve their lives resulted... Read More →

David Sekulich

Ogden Communities That Care Coalition Coordinator, Weber Human Services

David Sekulich is a community advocate with extensive experience in substance use prevention and recovery support. His work centers on implementing evidence-based strategies that strengthen public health responses to the opioid crisis and increase equitable access to life-saving interventions... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 201

Youth Development, Youth Engagement Voice and Choice

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Youth Engagement Voice and Choice
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Child/Youth Growth and Development

12:30pm MDT

Networking Lunch and Exhibitor Exploration

Saturday October 10, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT

Grand Ballroom

Join us in the Grand Ballroom for lunch! Your next session begins at 1:30 pm, so we recommend making your way to your next session by 1:15 pm.

Saturday October 10, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT
Grand Ballroom

1:30pm MDT

Building Funding-Ready Afterschool Programs: A Strategic Approach to Growth and Sustainability

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 201

Limited Capacity seats available

Afterschool leaders, program directors, and staff responsible for growth or sustainability will learn how to build programs that are ready for funding before the grant opportunity appears. This practical session will show how clear goals, measurable outcomes, strong partnerships, realistic budgets, and compelling stories work together to strengthen funding success. Participants will identify common gaps that weaken proposals and use a simple planning framework to assess their own program. Attendees will leave with practical tools to align strategy, program design, and resource development so they can pursue funding with greater clarity, confidence, and long-term sustainability.

Speakers

Kathleen Bideaux

Managing Member and Founder, Elevate Consulting UT

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 201

Admin Leadership Track, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

1:30pm MDT

Best Practices for Afterschool Activities

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 102

Limited Capacity seats available

Designed for program staff working directly with youth, this interactive session utilizes facilitator-led modeling to demonstrate high-impact program delivery. Upon entering the room, participants will experience the session from the youth perspective as the facilitator actively models best practices in real time. Through this live demonstration, you will observe firsthand how to seamlessly integrate youth leadership opportunities, scaffold skill-building support, and facilitate intentional conversations before, during, and after activities. Come ready to engage in this dynamic, role-play-driven professional development experience.

Speakers

Verlina Adame

School-Age Child Care Specialist, Utah Afterschool Network

As a School-Age Child Care (SACC) Specialist with UAN, Verlina "V" Adame supports childcare programs throughout the state through coaching, training, and technical assistance. She brings 14 years of experience to the child care and afterschool field, including 11 years as an instructor... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 102

Developing High Quality Programs, Program Planning and Development

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Program Planning and Development

1:30pm MDT

Creating Safe Spaces in Afterschool Programs

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Ballroom 2

Limited Capacity seats available

This interactive session equips afterschool staff at all levels with practical strategies for creating safe, supportive, and inclusive program environments. Participants will explore proactive approaches to behavior management and strategies for responding to challenging behaviors in ways that strengthen relationships and foster a positive program culture. Participants will leave with practical tools they can implement in their own programs.

Speakers

Brandis Stockman

Program Manager for Education, National League of Cities

Brandis Stockman is the Executive Director of OST Training That “Sticks” and Program
Manager for Education and Workforce Success with the National League of Cities. She has 25+
years of experience supporting youth and families, including overseeing school-based and
afterschool p... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Ballroom 2

Developing High Quality Programs, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

1:30pm MDT

Is This Really Happening? From Tube Tops to the Tooth Fairy, Maintaining Joy in Your Educator Journey

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Ballroom 1

Limited Capacity seats available

Being an educator feels a bit like signing up for a marathon and discovering it’s an ultra-marathon...with hurdles… in hot sand… with no shoes. From managing wardrobes of students (tube tops) to debating the existence of the Tooth Fairy, the surprises never end. The journey of an educator is often filled with unexpected challenges, changes, and an emotional grind that make us all pause and wonder at some point, “Is this really happening?” This session explores the strategies used by two educators navigating the demanding yet rewarding path of education and how they got lost and found their way back.

Speakers

Travis Moss

Principal Mapleton Jr. High School, Nebo School District

Travis Moss is the Principal at Mapleton Jr. High School and a husband to the most patient woman in the world and the father of five amazing kids that keep him busy and laughing. Travis started out as a Spanish teacher and has always enjoyed languages and the challenge and joy of... Read More →

Brittany Lundell

Assistant Principal Springville Jr. High School, Nebo School District

Raised on a farm, Brittany learned early the value of hard work, patience, and a good sense of humor. She spent eight years teaching special education before moving into school administration, dedicating her career to students and families in the Nebo School District. She holds degrees... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Ballroom 1

Developing High Quality Programs, Program Planning and Development

Program Serving Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 Leadership and Admin
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

1:30pm MDT

Little Moments, Big Readers: Build Your Afterschool Literacy Playbook

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 203

Limited Capacity seats available

This hands-on workshop is for afterschool professionals who work with elementary-age youth and want to turn ordinary moments—snack, transitions, read-alouds, and play—into real literacy growth. Grounded in the Science of Reading, you'll see why the caring adult, not a curriculum, is a child's most powerful literacy tool. Then you'll do the work: practice research-backed literacy "moves" with a partner and build your own next-day plan inside a free companion app made for this session. Bring a device—you'll leave with your plan built, not just your notebook full. In 90 minutes, you'll move from "I should do more with literacy" to "here's exactly what I'll try Monday."

Speakers

Marci Houseman

Founder | CEO, rinnalla literacy

Marci Houseman is the Founder and CEO of rinnalla, a Science of Reading–based coaching platform that equips the caring adults in a child's life to turn everyday moments into literacy growth. A former Title I and turnaround principal with 30+ years in education and school improvement... Read More →

Whitney Wilson

Founder & CEO, Chasing Impact, Science of Reading Panel, Utah State Board of Education

Whitney Wilson, M.Ed., is a literacy educator and advocate with over 15 years of experience helping students, families, and schools unlock the power of literacy. She brings a background in Early Childhood and Special Education, with direct classroom teaching experience in 1st and... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 203

Developing High Quality Programs, Learning Environments and Curriculum

Program Serving Grades K-2
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Learning Environments and Curriculum

1:30pm MDT

YARN: The Ultimate Makerspace

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 202

Limited Capacity seats available

In this highly interactive session, you'll experience hands-on yarn activities that require little more than inexpensive supplies and a spirit of curiosity. Explore fiber arts, collaborative challenges, and creative invitations that foster problem-solving, persistence, fine motor skills, social connection, and youth leadership. You'll discover practical, low-cost ideas that can be adapted for a wide range of ages and abilities.
Together, we'll explore the WEAVE framework for designing meaningful afterschool experiences: Welcome, Explore, Achieve, Value, and Empower. You'll leave with fresh inspiration, practical resources, and a new appreciation for how one simple material can unlock endless possibilities for creativity, belonging, and learning.

Speakers

Marlin Taylor

SACC Specialist, Utah Afterschool Network

Marlin Taylor is a School-Age Child Care Specialist with the Utah Afterschool Network, where she conducts statewide quality observations and coaching. Her background spans linguistics research and university-level teaching, preschool education with a focus on project-based STEAM learning... Read More →

Janelle Gutierrez

Afterschool Consultant, Utah Afterschool Network

Janelle Gutierrez is an Afterschool Consultant with the Utah Afterschool Network. Holding a degree from BYU Idaho in Child Development, she is a dedicated youth development professional with more than 20 years of experience serving children and families through early childhood and... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 202

Developing High Quality Programs, Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth

Program Serving Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth

1:30pm MDT

Don't Quit. Pivot: How Resilience Turns Setbacks into Your Next Opportunity

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Meeting Room 101

Limited Capacity seats available

Success rarely follows a straight path. This session is designed for young adults (ages 18–22), educators, mentors, and leaders who want to help the next generation develop resilience in the face of setbacks. Participants will explore why many young adults are quick to quit when challenges arise and learn practical strategies to shift from a fixed mindset to one of adaptability, perseverance, and growth. Through real-world examples and actionable tools, attendees will leave equipped to navigate obstacles with confidence, embrace failure as part of the learning process, and build the resilience needed to thrive in school, work, and life.

Speakers

Trina Christensen

Co-Director, Sistema Utah - American Preparatory Academy

Trina Christensen is the Co-Director of Sistema Utah, an award-winning nonprofit that provides free afterschool music and academic enrichment programs for more than 500 students annually. A lifelong educator and arts leader with nearly 30 years of experience, she is passionate about... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Meeting Room 101

Emerging Leaders, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades Emerging Leaders
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Program Planning and Development

1:30pm MDT

Count Me In: Increase Math Understanding Through Sports

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Grand Ballroom B

Limited Capacity seats available

After a long school day, the last thing kids want to do in an afterschool program is sit at a desk for more math. They want to get moving, play with friends, and burn off energy! But what if you could deliver high-quality math reinforcement without a single worksheet?This active, hands-on workshop will show you how to turn recess favorites and team sports into stealthy learning opportunities. You will discover practical ways to weave critical math concepts—like geometry, fractions, statistics, and estimation—directly into the playground games kids already love. Come ready to move, laugh, and learn how to bring fun and games to your program, completely by the numbers!

Speakers

Denise Taylor

Program Coordinator, Utah State University Extension

Denise Taylor serves as a program coordinator for USU. Over the last 14 years, she has extensive experience with making afterschool educational and fun for kids of all ages. She provided checkout materials for use in schools and afterschool throughout Utah. In her spare time she enjoys... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Grand Ballroom B

STEM, Learning Environments and Curriculum

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Learning Environments and Curriculum
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Program Planning and Development

1:30pm MDT

What's Love Got to Do With It?

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Ballroom 3

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how confidence, self-esteem, self-care, and connection can impact learning, resilience, relationships, and a child’s ability to thrive. This engaging session will give after-school professionals practical strategies for creating environments where children feel valued, capable, and connected. We’ll also explore the importance of caring for ourselves while caring for others, because you can’t pour from an empty cup. No magic wand required, just compassion, connection, and understanding that one caring adult can make a lasting difference in a child’s learning by improving confidence and self-esteem.

Speakers

Donna Hortin

Therapist, LCSW

Donna Hortin has a Masters Degree from the University of Utah and has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist for over 20 years. She has worked in hospice, substance abuse, domestic violence, children's mental health, crisis response, and individual and couples counseling... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Ballroom 3

Youth Development, Child/Youth Observation and Assessment

STRAND Youth Development
Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Child/Youth Growth and Development
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth

2:30pm MDT

Exhibitor Exploration and Networking Break

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:30pm - 2:45pm MDT

First and Second Floor

Visit the Exhibit Hall located on the 1st & 2nd floor.

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:30pm - 2:45pm MDT
First and Second Floor

2:45pm MDT

Out of the Box Advocacy

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Meeting Room 102

Limited Capacity seats available

Advocacy doesn't have to be a drag! While engaging policymakers can feel intimidating, the secret is simple: they’re just people who want real connection. As an afterschool pro, you already have the superpowers needed to win them over. In this session, we’ll ditch the "scary" stuff and discover how to use your existing skills—the same ones you use to connect with youth and families—to become an advocacy rockstar. Let’s reshape how you make the case for your program and turn "cumbersome" into "connection!"

Speakers

Ben Trentelman

Executive Director, Utah Afterschool Network

Ben Trentelman has dedicated his career to serving youth and communities since 2002, with a focus on afterschool programming since 2006. He has led eight afterschool programs across Utah's Wasatch Front, impacting thousands of youth through high-quality learning experiences that integrate... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Meeting Room 102

Admin Leadership Track, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Family School and Community Relationships

2:45pm MDT

Accessible Programming without Overwhelm

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Ballroom 1

Limited Capacity seats available

This training is meant to help afterschool professionals identify blind spots in their program development in a way that feels tangible. Oftentimes, creating programs can be overwhelming because you have so many people to think about, on an individual level. This training will help bring a collectivist mindset in our planning to help decrease feelings of anxiety when planning for various people from a wide range of backgrounds. Come and be a part of the discussion and create an intersectional framework that works for you.

Speakers

Encircle

Encircle LGBTQ+ Youth and Family Resource Center - Salt Lake

Encircle is a resource center that offers drop in hours, peer support programs, and creative programming for LGBTQ+ folks ages 12+, as well as education and support for their families and loved ones. Each location offers unique programming specific to their area. We also offer therapy... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Ballroom 1

Developing High Quality Programs, Family School and Community Relationships

Program Serving Grades 6-8, 9-12 6-8, 9-12 | TEENS
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Family School and Community Relationships
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Program Planning and Development

2:45pm MDT

Beyond Social Media: Understanding the Emerging Digital Challenges Facing Today's Youth

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Meeting Room 201

Limited Capacity seats available

Afterschool professionals are supporting young people in a digital landscape that looks dramatically different than it did just a few years ago. Today's youth are navigating AI chatbots, influencer culture, sports betting ads, deepfakes, online scams, and algorithm-driven platforms that shape how they think, connect, and make decisions. This interactive session moves beyond traditional internet safety to explore emerging digital trends through real-world scenarios, discussion, and hands-on activities. Participants will learn to recognize potential risks while building youth digital resilience through critical thinking, media literacy, and decision-making skills.

Speakers

Kaitlyn Handley

Digital Trainer, Digital Citizenship Foundation

Kaitlyn Handley is a Digital Trainer with the Digital Citizenship Foundation, where she delivers educational programs for children, teens, and parents on safe, healthy, and responsible technology use. Through her work, she empowers individuals and families to navigate the digital... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Meeting Room 201

Developing High Quality Programs, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

2:45pm MDT

Co-Workers, Not Competitors: Cultivating Trust & Communication in School Partnerships

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Meeting Room 203

Limited Capacity seats available

We’ve all been there: a classroom left messy, a forgotten gym key, or a miscommunicated student incident that derails a relationship. This session is a sanctuary for Utah youth workers to talk about the real-world friction of school partnerships—and how to fix it. We will blend deep relationship-building with practical communication strategies, giving you the tools to co-create boundaries and build unshakeable trust with your school-day partners.

Speakers

Lauren Levorsen

School Alignment & Data Specialist, Utah Afterschool Network

Lauren Levorsen is the School Alignment and Data Specialist at the Utah Afterschool Network. She has a B.S. in Marriage & Family Studies from BYU-Idaho and an M.Ed. in Educational Psychology from the University of Georgia. She happened upon afterschool programming by accident during... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Meeting Room 203

Developing High Quality Programs, Family School and Community Relationships

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Family School and Community Relationships
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Program Planning and Development

2:45pm MDT

Strategies for Supporting Growing Brains

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Meeting Room 101

Limited Capacity seats available

90% of brain development happens before age 5. The remaining 10% is mostly what we see developing in the kids we work with. This session will cover specific strategies for supporting that remaining growth in an intentional, fun, and meaningful way. Participants will walk away with new considerations as they build lesson plans of their own and can incorporate brain based strategies for learning.

Speakers

Angie Toone

School-Age Child Care Specialist, Utah Afterschool Network

Angie Toone is a school age childcare specialist with the Utah Afterschool Network. Angie completed her master's degree in Human Development and Social Policy at the University of Utah. She is passionate about creating safe spaces for young people to explore the world and finding... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Meeting Room 101

Developing High Quality Programs, Child/Youth Growth and Development

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Child/Youth Growth and Development

2:45pm MDT

Supporting Teen Literacy in Afterschool

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Meeting Room 202

Limited Capacity seats available

Afterschool professionals can have a lasting impact on teens' relationship with reading—without becoming reading teachers. This interactive session explores how to distinguish between skill-based and motivation-based reading struggles, create welcoming reading environments, and foster literacy through relationships, choice, and authentic engagement. Participants will leave with practical, research-informed strategies for building a positive reading culture, supporting struggling readers within their role, and helping young people see themselves as lifelong readers.

Speakers

Marlin Taylor

SACC Specialist, Utah Afterschool Network

Janelle Gutierrez

Afterschool Consultant, Utah Afterschool Network

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Meeting Room 202

Developing High Quality Programs, Learning Environments and Curriculum

Program Serving Grades 6-8, 9-12 | TEENS
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Program Planning and Development

2:45pm MDT

The Missing Piece: Afterschool's Role in Utah's Child Care Solution

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Ballroom 2

Limited Capacity seats available

Afterschool directors, site coordinators, and youth development professionals play a vital role in helping Utah's children and working families thrive. As Utah faces a shortage of affordable child care, before-school, afterschool, and summer programs have become an essential part of the solution. In this interactive session, participants will explore Utah's child care landscape, discover how out-of-school time programs strengthen families and the workforce, and practice simple storytelling strategies that build community support. Attendees will leave with practical tools to communicate their program's impact, strengthen partnerships, and confidently advocate for the resources children and youth need to succeed.

Speakers

Dr.Sarah Stone

Director, UAEYC Care for Kids (Utah Association for the Education of Young Children)

Dr. Sarah Stone is an accomplished nonprofit founder and executive director with over two decades of experience advancing equitable access to high-quality early learning. Skilled at translating child development research into actionable policy and program strategies, she is passionate... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Ballroom 2

Emerging Leaders, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

2:45pm MDT

Prevention Science: Small Moments That Can Change a Life

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Grand Ballroom B

Limited Capacity seats available

Did you know that you have the power to change a young person’s trajectory in just five minutes? In this interactive session, afterschool professionals will explore how Prevention Science and intentional interactions can significantly enhance protective factors such as resilience, belonging, and confidence in youth. Through motivational activities and thought-provoking reflections, participants will learn about the five simple steps to create little moments that lead to big outcomes. Making a difference in prevention efforts takes a village, and it can start with you. By the end of this session, you will be equipped with evidence-based strategies that you can immediately implement in your schools and communities.

Speakers

Moniksha (Mony) Madan

Prevention Program Manager, Volunteers of America, UTAH

Moniksha Madan is the Program Manager of the Prevention Services at Volunteers of America, Utah. She oversees a team of certified Prevention Specialists who implement evidence-based Social-Emotional Learning and Substance Abuse Prevention curricula in Title 1 schools and community... Read More →

Joshua Figueroa

Prevention Specialist, Volunteers of America, UTAH

Joshua Figueroa is a certified prevention specialist with Volunteers of America. In this role, he teaches evidence-based social-emotional learning curriculum to students within the Salt Lake City School District. Teaching throughout the Salt Lake Valley, he has had the opportunity... Read More →

Alexis Mainord

Prevention Specialist, Volunteers of America, UTAH

Alexis Mainord is a Prevention Specialist at Volunteers of America where she facilitates social and emotional learning groups with youth throughout the school year, during summer programs, and in after-school programs. She also helps facilitate other community resources, such as parenting... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Grand Ballroom B

Prevention, Safety and Wellness

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Safety and Wellness
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Child/Youth Growth and Development

2:45pm MDT

Making Math Groove: Teaching Numbers Through Rhythm, Song, and Movement

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT

Ballroom 3

Limited Capacity seats available

Unlock the hidden math in every melody! This hands-on workshop equips afterschool educators with dynamic, "stealth math" strategies to teach foundational math concepts through high-energy music activities. Instead of worksheets, you will learn to use rhythm, song, instruments, and dance to reinforce learning naturally. Participants will actively jump, drum, and sing their way through interactive lessons. By the end of this session, you will have a ready-to-use toolkit of active musical experiences that make math feel like play.

Speakers

Nicole Rich

Afterschool Site Specialist, Utah State University Extension

Nicole Rich is a trained educator and USU Extension afterschool site specialist in Salt Lake County. She has many years' experience working in both formal and informal education. Music is one of Nicole's great loves, and she is excited to share her experiences.

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Ballroom 3

STEM, Learning Environments and Curriculum

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Program Planning and Development

3:45pm MDT

Exhibitor Exploration and Networking Break

Saturday October 10, 2026 3:45pm - 4:00pm MDT

First and Second Floor

Thank you, Exhibitors and Sponsors, for your support. The exhibitor hall is closed; we can't wait to see you next year.

Saturday October 10, 2026 3:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
First and Second Floor

4:00pm MDT

How Pop Culture, Video Games, and Pixie Dust Helped Me Banish The Final Boss of Learning: Boredom

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Ballroom 1

Limited Capacity seats available

Afterschool educators are invited to discover practical strategies to transform your everyday activities into experiences kids can't wait to join. This interactive panel explores how gamification, "subverting reality" by adding playful twists to familiar activities, and pop-culture-inspired themes can help level up your classes and make learning fun and memorable. You'll leave with ready-to-use ideas and adaptive curriculum frameworks to beat boredom--the final boss of learning.

Speakers

Jess Ung

Senior Community Programs Manager, SLC Division of Youth & Family YouthCity

Jess Ung is the Senior Community Programs Manager at YouthCity at Liberty Park, part of Salt Lake City’s Division of Youth & Family. After starting her career in video games and entertainment art, Jess made the move into out-of-school time youth care and quickly discovered that... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ballroom 1

Developing High Quality Programs, Learning Environments and Curriculum

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Learning Environments and Curriculum

4:00pm MDT

Small Shifts, Stronger Teams: Leading Through Change with Confidence

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Meeting Room 102

Limited Capacity seats available

Change is constant in afterschool programs, but it doesn't have to drain your team. Discover how small leadership shifts can build staff resilience, strengthen team culture, and improve outcomes for youth. Based on 13 years of VentureLab's experience, this session gets you hands-on with a framework rooted in creativity, adaptability, and purpose. Leave with ready-to-use strategies you can implement immediately, plus a complimentary seat in VentureLab's online course to continue the learning!

Speakers

Lindly Fernandez

Program Coordinator, VentureLab

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Meeting Room 102

Emerging Leaders, Professional Development and Leadership

Program Serving Grades Admin & Leadership
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Professional Development and Leadership

4:00pm MDT

Connecting Before Correcting: Creative Strategies for Reaching Youth with Challenging Behaviors

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Ballroom 2

Limited Capacity seats available

Afterschool professionals and youth educators: managing challenging behaviors can often feel overwhelming, but connection is the key to transformation. In this interactive session, explore innovative, practical strategies designed to reach school-age youth when traditional behavior management falls short. Discover how relational approaches, creative de-escalation techniques, and intentional engagement can turn moments of friction into opportunities for growth. Walk away with an actionable toolkit of low-cost, high-impact strategies, real-world activity ideas, and practical resources you can implement immediately in your program. Join us to transform how you respond to complex behaviors and build lasting, positive connections with the youth you serve.

Speakers

JoAnna Hagen Manzanares

Director, Little Learners Charities Non Profit

JoAnna Hagen Manzanares holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a National Administrator Credential (NAC). With nearly 20 years dedicated to early childhood development, she serves as the Director of Little Learners Charities, the largest non-profit childcare... Read More →

Miranda Simmons

Assistant Director, Little Learners Charities Non Profit

Miranda Simmons serves as the Assistant Director at Little Learners Charities and works with the Children's Justice Center, bringing extensive expertise to early childhood support. She holds a National Administrator Credential (NAC), CDA credentials in Infant/Toddler, Preschool, and... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ballroom 2

Prevention, Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Relationships and Interactions with Children and Youth
NAA Core Knowledge Skills & Co... Child/Youth Growth and Development

4:00pm MDT

Love Them or Hate Them, STEM Activities Are Real Winners

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Ballroom 3

Limited Capacity seats available

Mention "STEM" to afterschool educators, and you'll often hear two things: excitement for high engagement, or anxiety over mess, noise, and feeling out of their depth.This interactive session proves why STEM is worth the chaos. Participants will discover how hands-on activities build critical skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance. Attendees will jump into a hands-on design challenge, explore a showcase of STEM projects for every budget, and learn how to tap into local Utah funding and lending libraries. Leave with low-cost strategies and the confidence to run winning STEM experiences!

Speakers

Sarah Broadbent

STEM Curriculum and Engagement Project Specialist, Utah STEM Action Center

Sarah Broadbent is the new STEM Curriculum and Engagement Project Specialist at the Utah STEM Action Center. She spent the last 6 years teaching STEM rotations to grades K-6 at an elementary school in the Jordan School District. Five of those years she has organized and taught STEM... Read More →

Saturday October 10, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ballroom 3

STEM, Learning Environments and Curriculum

Program Serving Grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8
NAA Core Knowledge Skills and.... Learning Environments and Curriculum

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