DC TRUST Guide 1023 - Children & Youth Investment Trust ...

i n t r o d u c t i o n
Best Practices and Indicators for
Out-of-School Time Programs
How do you define quality in an out-of-school time program, and how is it evidenced in practice?
High-quality programs for children and youth are intentionally designed using best practices
measured against practical, identifiable indicators. The DC Children and Youth Investment Trust
Corporation (the Trust) believes that program improvement is an ongoing process that includes:
observing programs’ progress toward youth development goals, identifying strengths and
challenges and setting objectives and developing strategies to meet them.
The Trust developed this field guide as a resource that presents examples of the best in youth
programming, including programming in an especially urban environment. It incorporates the
learning of organizations and intermediaries across the country, the experience of Trust staff, and
the front line insights of dedicated providers in the District of Columbia. It provides almost 100
best practices and more than 600 indicators that illustrate what each practice looks like in
day-to-day operations.
The field guide can be used by any program, regardless of size, area of focus or years in existence.
The best practices are presented in four broad categories of program quality – relationships,
program content, community connection and organizational infrastructure. Whether used for
independent self-assessment or as part of the Trust’s more formal assessment process, this field
guide provides a wealth of ideas, information, and inspiration for program design or improvement.
1. Youth Development Philosophy and Low Student-to-Staff Ratio
The program provides positive interaction between youth and trained, caring adults
through a youth development philosophy and low student-to-staff ratio.
2. High-interest, Hands-on Activities
Youth are engaged in high-interest, hands-on activities that offer a balance of ageappropriate
programming that includes academic support, enrichment, recreation,
arts, job skills, college prep, etc.
3. Connections to Families and Community
The program has strong connections to local community with opportunities for
engaging parents and contributing to the community.
4. Organizational Infrastructure
The program is offered in a safe, structured, nurturing environment by a sustainable,
well-run organization.
Field Guide to OST Best Practices / Introduction: Best Practices and Indicators for Out-of-School Time Programs