The 2026 Afterschool Symposium was a celebration of 25 years of innovation in the afterschool field, impact in the lives of the children and families we serve, and the community that has been built.
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Held as both a celebration and a call to continued action, the Afterschool Symposium highlights the critical role afterschool programs play in supporting children and youth to be their best and allowing them to thrive socially and academically. The morning began with the Professional Development Recognition Ceremony, where practitioners were honored for their continued learning as they strive to offer high-quality programs. Prime Time celebrated graduates who completed cohorts including STEAM, Well-being and Life Skills, Elevating OST Leaders and Expanding Youth-Adult Partnerships initiatives. Afterschool professionals were honored and celebrated for achieving certificates and degrees earned from Palm Beach State College. Some were first-generation college graduates, and some were motivated to pursue their education even further by earning their masters.
Attendees then engaged in dynamic workshops, interactive discussions and meaningful networking opportunities designed to strengthen practices and inspire continued excellence in the field. These workshops were hosted by event sponsors - Mizzen Education, Every Hour Counts and United Way Palm Beach County - and pillars of the community, including The Leadership Haven Resource Center and HTI Catalysts. Even a member of our QIS community presented a workshop, The EJS Project.
Following the workshop sessions, the Advancing Afterschool Awards ceremony began. These awards highlight exemplary members of our community who are dedicated to quality in the field and who make significant impacts in the lives of the youth and families in Palm Beach and Martin counties. Nominees for these awards are nominated by their peers and the winners are selected by a board of middle-school-age youth.
Congratulations to the winners of 2026 Advancing Afterschool Awards:
- Lisa Lohman, Teaching Artist, Center for Creative Education -
Excellence in Expanded Learning Award - Debbie Dehoog, Manager, Content Operations, NCCI - Community Impact Award
- James Hetzel, Recreation Leader Martin County, Board of County Commissioners - JASE Program - Implementing Quality by an Afterschool Professional Award (Martin County)
- Carlens Orelus, Lead Teacher Milagro Center - Implementing Quality by an Afterschool Professional
- Ashley Ham, Director of Support Programs, Boca Raton Housing Authority - Pearl City CATS - Quality Leadership in Out-of-School Time Award
- Shane Vander Kooi, President and Founder, Green Mouse Academy - Out-of-School Time Legacy Award
The event's final activity was a powerful keynote from one of Prime Time's own staff members, Dr. Nicole Edwards. Dr. Edwards is the director of community partnerships at Prime Time and also an accomplished motivational speaker who has been featured on the TEDx stage and multiple podcasts. Her keynote presentation, Legacy in Motion: 25 Years of Prime Time. Took guests on a tour of Prime Time's history and the legacy we have left behind. But most importantly, this keynote set us into motion our next 25 years of support and advocacy for the afterschool and summer field here in South Florida.
A special highlight of the event was the recognition of the individuals, organizations, and community partners whose dedication and leadership have helped shape 25 years of success for afterschool programs throughout Palm Beach County. Their commitment continues to “light the way” for future generations of young people and families.
As the symposium concluded, one message remained clear: the future of afterschool is bright, and through continued partnership, innovation and advocacy, we will continue lighting the way for years to come.
