In Part 2 of this episode of Inside Out-of-School Time, host Karin Wolfe and Cappella Brown continue their conversation with Johanna Friedel, Project Director for the Texas Afterschool Centers on Education at Greenville ISD. Together, they dive into the “Explain” and “Elaborate” phases of the 5E learning model, exploring how student-centered teaching practices support both academic and social-emotional growth. From using creative, hands-on activities to engaging families as learning partners, this episode offers practical strategies to cultivate a growth mindset and strengthen student engagement in afterschool settings. 

In this special bonus episode of Inside Out-of-School Time, host Karin Wolfe sits down with Carla Jones-Wiley, program director at Spring Independent School District, to talk about what it takes to build a thriving 21st CCLC program. Carla shares her approach to intentional hiring, leadership development, and staff empowerment — and how those practices create ripple effects for students and communities.  

From AI camps and STEM-focused summer learning to meaningful partnerships with steering committees, this conversation shines a light on how strong leadership and purposeful planning can spark opportunity and transformation — not just for students, but for everyone involved in OST.  

Tune in to hear how Spring ISD is keeping students inspired and teams empowered through leadership that leads with heart.  

In Episode 3, Part 1 of Inside Out-of-School Time, hosts Karin Wolfe and Cappella Brown kick off a three-part series with Johanna Friedel, Project Director for the Texas Afterschool Centers on Education at Greenville ISD. Together, they dive into what meaningful engagement really looks like in out-of-school time (OST), and how the 5E Learning Model can serve as a practical guide to spark curiosity and deepen learning.  

Through stories, strategies, and honest reflections, this episode explores how incorporating exploration, play, and purpose into your daily practice can lead to stronger connections and better outcomes for youth. Whether you're planning a new activity or reflecting on your program's culture, you'll walk away with ideas to reignite joy and intention in your work. 

Listen now to explore the first steps of the 5E journey—and how you can bring that energy to life in your own program. 

Episode 2 of Inside Out-of-School Time is now live! In this episode, host Karin Wolfe is joined by Dr. Candace Ferguson, Project Director of the 21st CCLC NTAC, for a powerful conversation about how the 21st CCLC NTAC is transforming its mission into meaningful, on-the-ground support for out-of-school time (OST) programs. 

Explore how tools like the Learning Management System and the Knowledge Network are helping professionals across all roles — from SEA Coordinators to frontline staff — tackle real challenges like staff retention, student engagement, and academic recovery. 

Listen now to gain insights, strategies, and a deeper understanding of how the 21st CCLC NTAC is helping programs grow and thrive. 

Welcome to the premiere of Inside Out-of-School Time, the podcast for OST professionals looking to connect, learn, and grow. Hosted by Cappella Santos-Brown, this series dives into best practices, innovative ideas, and real stories that shape the out-of-school time field. 

In this debut episode, we sit down with Dr. La’ Shawndra Scroggins, the visionary leader behind the 21st Century Community Learning Centers National Technical Assistance Center (NTAC). Dr. Scroggins shares her journey, the creation of NTAC, and the groundbreaking tools and strategies the team is developing to support OST programs nationwide.  

Whether you're an OST leader, educator, or advocate, this episode is packed with insights to inspire your work and enhance your impact. Be sure to tune in to part two, featuring Dr. Candace Ferguson, for more on NTAC’s vision and priorities.