Jump Start 2026

Many of today's children can struggle with the social and emotional skills necessary to create and maintain relationships. While many Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs exist in schools, they are often not adapted to the unique needs of the gifted population. This presentation will also demonstrate some techniques on how to teach and model SEL skills for today's children through the gamification of the lessons, both through the demonstration of games designed for this population and instruction on how to adapt games.

Data collection can feel like one more thing on an already full plate, but what if it could actually make your job easier? If collecting attendance, registration, or reporting information feels overwhelming or inconsistent, this session is for you. Join fellow afterschool professionals for an interactive discussion about what's working, what's not, and how small changes can make a big difference. You'll leave with practical ideas to improve data quality, simplify processes, and spend less time fixing problems and more time supporting youth.

Most educators, parents, and students are navigating AI without a map, responding to federal directives, state policies, and classroom realities that are all moving at different speeds. Join USBE AI Education Specialist Matt Winters for a candid, field-level look at what is actually happening across the country, what it means for Utah right now, and how to lead communities through this moment with clarity, confidence, and humanity at the center.

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.

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.

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.