Afterschool Pathways

Professional Development for staff working in Afterschool programs includes:

  • Core knowledge areas: defines what afterschool staff should know and do. The core competencies detail the 5 Core knowledge areas.
  • Courses, trainings and other learning opportunities: based on the core competencies
  • Career pathways: for all staff from entry level to program directors
  • Certificates and Credentials: recognize professional achievement

The Afterschool Career diagram shows how the Afterschool Competencies and the Afterschool Phases fit together.

Phases of the Afterschool Career Pathway and steps in each

Awareness Phase: usually within the first two years of work in an afterschool program; a formal start to becoming an afterschool professional

  • Vermont Afterschool Foundations certificate and Afterschool Essentials Curricula  
  • On-the-Job Training for Afterschool Professionals (from Vermont Child Care Industry and Careers Council)
  • Program Director Credential  - Step 1
  • Highly Qualified Paraprofessional Certificate (awarded by a school system)

Developing Phase: extends basic skills and practices.  College course work specific to the Afterschool setting is part of this phase.

  • On-the-Job Training for Afterschool Professionals (from Vermont Child Care Industry and Careers Council)
  • Vermont Afterschool Professional Credential
  • Highly Qualified Paraprofessional Certificate (awarded by a school system)
  • Program Director Credential  - Step 2 Certificate
  • Educator License (from VT Department of Education)

Achievement Phase: expanding knowledge, developing leadership, and teaching others

  • Vermont Afterschool Professional Credential
  • Highly Qualified Paraprofessional Certificate (awarded by a school system)
  • Program Director Credential Achieved (Step3)
  • Educator License (from VT Department of Education)

Other Related Opportunities

  • Instructor Registry
  • Coaching: Vermont Center for Afterschool Excellence (VCAE)
  • Mentors for Quality: afterschool program mentors through the VCAE