The New Mexico Out-of-School Time Network (NMOST) invites you to submit a workshop proposal for inclusion in our IN-PERSON 16th Annual Conference: Spring into Summer 2026! Proposals will be reviewed and, if accepted, will be presented at the conference in Albuquerque on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Spring into Summer will bring together youth development workers, childcare providers, educators, decision makers and others interested in ensuring positive youth development opportunities and outcomes through out-of-school time programs. This conference is designed to inspire and connect those working with children, youth, and families. Attendees will leave with innovative strategies that will lead to quality out-of-school time programs. This is your opportunity to join us and share your expertise with others in the New Mexico OST community! Track: Expanding Afterschool Access & Impact This track explores bold strategies and practical tools for growing high-quality afterschool and summer learning opportunities across communities. We welcome proposals that highlight innovative funding approaches, partnership models, workforce development solutions, and data-driven practices that help programs scale sustainably. Sessions should focus on how to increase capacity, strengthen quality, or expand reach into underserved areas, supporting equitable access to out-of-school time for all young people. Track: Mentoring in OST – Building Intentional, Impactful Relationships Mentoring is a cornerstone of high-quality Out-of-School Time (OST) programs. In this track, we explore how staff can guide young people in developing life skills, building confidence, and discovering their passions through caring, consistent relationships. We welcome proposals that highlight strategies for designing OST programs centered on intentional mentoring—whether through structured activities, targeted curriculum, or effective relationship-building practices. Sessions should offer practical approaches that help programs create supportive environments where every young person feels seen, valued, and connected. Track: STEM Learning & Career Exploration in OST This track focuses on expanding meaningful STEM learning opportunities in Out-of-School Time (OST) programs—sparking curiosity, creativity, and pathways to future careers. We invite proposals that showcase hands-on STEM activities, project-based learning, real-world problem solving, and partnerships with industry or higher education. Sessions may also highlight strategies for broadening participation among underrepresented groups, integrating career exploration, or building staff confidence in leading STEM experiences. The goal: equip OST programs with practical tools to inspire the next generation of innovators. Track: Summer Learning in New Mexico – Policy, Programs & Impact This track highlights the unique landscape of summer learning across New Mexico and its vital role in supporting student engagement, academic growth, and whole-child well-being. Sessions will explore state and local policies, innovative program models, tribal and rural initiatives, and the latest research shaping stronger, more equitable summer opportunities for New Mexico’s children and youth. We welcome proposals that share success stories from communities across the state and offer practical strategies for designing impactful, culturally responsive summer learning experiences that help young people thrive. Track: Centering Youth Voice in OST Programs This track explores how Out-of-School Time (OST) programs can actively engage young people in shaping their learning experiences, program design, and community impact. Sessions will highlight strategies for listening to, amplifying, and acting on youth perspectives—through leadership opportunities, advisory boards, participatory projects, or decision-making structures. We welcome proposals that showcase practical approaches for empowering youth, fostering agency, and creating programs that truly reflect the interests, ideas, and needs of the young people they serve. Track: Engaging Older Youth – Middle & High School OST Programs This track focuses on strategies for effectively engaging middle and high school students in Out-of-School Time (OST) programs. Sessions will explore programming that meets the unique developmental, social, and academic needs of older youth—supporting leadership, career readiness, life skills, and personal growth. We welcome proposals that highlight hands-on activities, mentorship, youth-led initiatives, and approaches that foster meaningful relationships and sustained participation among teens. Track: Culturally-Responsive Practices and Community Engagement: This track explores strategies for designing Out-of-School Time (OST) programs that honor and reflect the cultures, identities, and experiences of the youth and communities they serve. Sessions will highlight approaches for integrating culturally responsive practices, building strong community partnerships, and engaging families and local organizations in meaningful ways. We welcome proposals that showcase practical tools, success stories, and lessons learned in creating inclusive, equitable, and community-centered OST programs. Notes on 2026 Spring into Summer Workshops:
— Due to limited number of sessions, the selection process will be highly competitive.
— ALL workshops will be presented live to conference attendees.
— ALL workshops will take place in-person at the conference on March 3.
— Presenters should clearly identify how they plan to actively engage the audience.
— Presenters should clearly identify how they plan to encourage participant interaction. Important Dates:
— Submission Deadline: January 8, 2026
— Acceptance Notification: January 23, 2026
— Final workshop description/speaker Deadline: January 30, 2026 Proposals will be reviewed in an ongoing basis
For questions, contact Ian Gates at igates@nmost.org | 
