The Association bases its professional development and training services on the quality standards found in the Program Improvement System. Quality standards fall into the categories listed below.

Program Infrastructure

PURPOSE

• Program has mission and vision statements that are grounded in the needs of its community and connected to a current strategic plan.
• Program sets annual goals for youth and for the organization that drive a continuous cycle of evaluation and quality improvement.

PLANNING

• Program has a clear plan for sustainable and cost-effective operations.
• Program has a proactive planning process that is inclusive of all key stakeholders and connected to the goals of the program.
• Program is designed to allocate enough time, staff and resources to promote positive academic and developmental youth outcomes.
• Program has a comprehensive structure in place for all programming throughout the summer, in advance of the session.

PEOPLE

• Program leader makes data-driven decisions to design programming that advances the mission and goals of the organization.
• Program leader is a strong advocate for out-of-school time programs and an engaged member of the community served.
• Program’s recruitment and staffing process intentionally yields diverse, committed, and qualified staff.
• Program staff is empowered to manage the program and has a voice in organizational decisions.
• Youth are viewed as key stakeholders and have opportunities for leadership in the program.
  
  

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Program provides extensive opportunities for staff development and advancement before, during and after the session.
  
  

PARTNERSHIPS

• Program builds and maintains strong linkages with partners, including community organizations and the public school system, that are supportive of its mission and have a vested interest in the program’s success.
• Program has a formal structure for communication and data sharing with all key external partners.
• Program builds and maintains strong linkages with families.

Point of Service

INDIVIDUALIZED

• Program assesses young people’s needs and develops individualized strategies for meeting program goals.
  

INTENTIONAL

• Activity planning and execution shows intentional focus on meeting learning goals.
  
  

INTEGRATED

• Programming builds skills, knowledge, and behaviors that promote academic success and healthy development.
• Program creates a "summer culture” that is different from the school year and promotes a sense of community.