

ACROSS NH is dedicated to supporting out-of-school time (OST) professionals in their work to create high quality, innovative programs for New Hampshire’s school age children. The preparation of this website was financed under a contract with the State of NH, DHHS, with funds provided in part by the State of NH and the US DHHS.
Afterschool Credential
The Afterschool Credential serves as a visible achievement of an individual’s professionalism and commitment to the field. Individuals are encouraged to display their credential proudly. Nationally, there is a growing commitment to the importance of professional development. Several states have credential systems, some required, others voluntary. The NH system is voluntary and is based on the following criteria:
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Education and Specialized Coursework
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Work Experience
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Ongoing Professional Development
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Professional Activities (PAs)
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Individuals may apply for more than one credential as long as they meet the required guidelines. If you are credentialed as a Master Professional Workshop Trainer, Faculty, or Allied Professional, you may become a trainer for out of school time programs. If credentialed as a Master Professional Program Mentor or Allied Professional, you can become a mentor, coach, or consultant for out of school time professionals and programs.
NH Afterschool Professional Development System
The New Hampshire Afterschool Professional Development System (NHAPDS) is designed to recognize the education, experience, skills and talents of administrators, directors, and staff in out of school time (OST) programs. It also is intended to support the ongoing professional development of OST professionals, particularly given the strong link of staff development to higher quality programs and positive youth outcomes.
The Bureau of Child Development and Head Start Collaboration of DHHS/DES is happy to announce that all early childhood and afterschool credential applications can now be submitted online through your New Hampshire Connections information System (NHCIS) portal. All supporting documentation needs to be submitted in order for the application to be reviewed.
Here are links to some of the important credential documents (all documents can be found in the NH Afterschool Professional Development System Guidebook):
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NH Afterschool Credential Application
NH Afterschool Credential Application Checklist
NH Afterschool Direct Service Credential Lattice
NH Afterschool Administrator Credential Lattice
NH Afterschool Master Professional Credential Lattice
NH Afterschool Leadership Endorsement
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Afterschool Credential Support
Afterschool Credential Information Session
This 1 hour virtual training will list the steps and process of applying for an Afterschool Credential. We will explore the credential options, requirements, and necessary forms you need to get started. Register in NHCIS​ or email Cathy Hazelton at chazelton@acrossnh.org to request a session for your staff.