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Current Events in Afterschool

Resources, tools and information about federal and state policy impacting afterschool and young people across Minnesota

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This spring, Ignite Afterschool, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Education, brings youth development professionals together across Minnesota for regional gatherings designed to strengthen practice, build connection, and elevate the field.

Our 2026 Regional Spring Convenings will create space for meaningful learning, peer exchange, and practical strategy-sharing — all rooted in the daily realities of afterschool and out-of-school-time programs.

These events are interactive, community-centered, and built for professionals at every level.

What Does the Day Look Like?

Each convening is a full-day, in-person experience: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

The agenda includes:

  • A large-group opening session
  • Interactive workshop breakout sessions
  • Applied learning and strategy-sharing
  • Structured networking opportunities
  • Time for reflection and regional connection

Detailed agendas will be shared with registered participants, Registration is required.

Cost: There is no cost to attend the 2026 Regional Spring Convenings. 

⬇️Upcoming Regional Meetings⬇️

2026 Metro Regional Convening!

April 17th, 2026

Connect • Collaborate • Cultivate Hosted by Ignite Afterschool & MDE, fellow youth leaders and educators. Don’t miss out, secure your spot today! 

The Metro Regional Convening is a one-day gathering for afterschool and youth development professionals in the Twin Cities area. Networking opportunities, build connection, collaboration, and sharing best practices.

Location: Mounds View Community Center, 5394 Edgewood Dr, Mounds View, MN 55112

For more detailed information about the schedule and specific sessions, please feel free to reach out to our main contact person at Keem@igniteafterschool.org.

Register Now

2026 Duluth Regional Convening!

May 1st, 2026

Connect • Collaborate • Cultivate Hosted by Ignite Afterschool & MDE, fellow youth leaders and educators. Don’t miss out, secure your spot today! 

The Duluth Regional Convening is a one-day gathering for afterschool and youth development professionals in the northern area. Networking opportunities, build connection, collaboration, and sharing best practices.

Location: University of MN Duluth Kirby Student Center, 1120 Kirby Dr, Duluth, MN 55812

For more detailed information about the schedule and specific sessions, please feel free to reach out to our main contact person at Keem@igniteafterschool.org.

2026 Bemidji Regional Convening!

June 5th, 2026

Connect • Collaborate • Cultivate Hosted by Ignite Afterschool & MDE, fellow youth leaders and educators. Don’t miss out, secure your spot today! 

The Bemidji Regional Convening is a one-day gathering for afterschool and youth development professionals in the northern area. Networking opportunities, build connection, collaboration, and sharing best practices.

Location: Boys and Girls Club of the Bemidji Area, 1600 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

For more detailed information about the schedule and specific sessions, please feel free to reach out to our main contact person at Keem@igniteafterschool.org.

KITS FOR CURIOSITY AND CALM

We are activating our broad network of schools, nonprofits and other afterschool providers to support young people while they are at home.

 

SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLE:

We coordinated access to at-home activity kits that encouraged self-expression, creativity, learning, and care. 
Through these kits, young people experienced meaningful opportunities 
for play and small moments of fun and joy.