The Center for Afterschool, Summer and Enrichment (CASE) for Kids hosted the Spotlight Afterschool: The Houston Out of School Time Conference on Sept. 26 at the Region 4 Education Service Center, bringing together after-school educators, coordinators and industry experts for a full day of professional development, learning sessions, networking opportunities and inspiration to showcase the incredible work done in the afterschool space.

Throughout the day, conference participants attended workshop sessions and took part in conference activities. Among the topics highlighted were keeping kids safe online, growing a volunteer network, and coding and AI in afterschool programming. Feature panels included family engagement and funding and sponsorship experts.

Each rotation also featured a special session – youth workforce readiness and pathways to success, 21st Century Community Learning Centers and their impact, and micro-credentialing in out-of-school time. These were led by CASE for Kids staff members Tineka Rentie, Jasmine Castleberry, Austen Yorko and Kittra Hewitt.

Diaz Music Institute provided a live performance to help start the day. The organization was a County Connections Youth Summer Initiative grant funding recipient and creates opportunities through music education for children, especially at-risk Hispanic and children of color.