Over the last 12 months, hundreds of afterschool professionals creatively reimagined and reinvented childcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic to fit the pressing needs of local families, all while remaining masked, keeping spaces clean and safe, and complying with all other required public health protocols.
As part of National Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week which ran during the week of April 19th, For Kids Only Afterschool (FKO) expressed their gratitude towards their staff with a week of special recognition events. The week was kicked off with an announcement by Executive Director, Deborah Kneeland Keegan thanking the team, followed by a staff trivia night with prizes, a piece of spring work apparel, and a highlight video of recorded testimonials from kids, parents, and administrative leaders.
Last year’s childcare program closures were hard on families and communities. Immediately when state guidelines allowed, afterschool professionals at FKO suited up in their PPE ready to support parents and caregivers, accepting expanded hours along with an even more robust job. While managing the everyday task of providing a safe, enriching environment for kids, staff went above and beyond their regular duties. Pushing their personal fears and needs aside and donning a smile every day, staff spearheaded FKO’s full-day remote learning program CONNECTed Care, performed intensive cleaning per COVID-19 requirements and gave extra attention and care to children struggling to understand big changes and uncertain futures.
“When we look back on these times, I know for certain afterschool professionals will be remembered as a crucial pillar of support to how we navigated our way through the pandemic,” says Kneeland Keegan. “They are heroes to so many families in our communities.”
As schools transition back into fully in-person learning, FKO and other afterschool providers are shifting their programming yet again to fulfill the role that they know best – an afterschool provider that offers kids a place to explore their favorite activities and discover new passions.
To learn how to support FKO staff and programs during these times, contact Director of Development, Nicole Preston, at npreston@fkoafterschool.org.
FKO celebrates National Summer Learning Week, a time dedicated to elevating the importance of keeping kids learning, safe, and healthy every summer, ensuring they return to school in the fall ready to succeed in the year.
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Thank you to our amazing partner, Boston Landmark Orchestra, for bringing your Musical Playground to FKO Everett! What an incredible opportunity it was for the children to learn from professional musicians how to play real instruments of the orchestra.
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