

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.
ACROSS NH Event Page
ANNUAL ACROSS NH AND NHAN SPRING CELEBRATION AND CONVENTION FOR OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME
Saturday, April 12, 2025
8:30am-3:15pm

Because you “Show Up and Shine,” we invite you to join us for a day of celebration, learning, and rejuvenation! This special event kicks off with a recognition ceremony honoring Afterschool Credential Award recipients, Granite Steps for Quality program recipients, and the 2025 NH OST Champions.
Be inspired by our keynote presentation, “The Legacy We Leave”, delivered by Jeanine K. Fitzgerald, and engage in high-quality professional development through a selection of trainings led by ACROSS NH master trainers, specifically designed for OST professionals.
REGISTRATION
A registration fee of $25 includes 6.75 hours of professional development, continental breakfast, lunch, and a complimentary gift provided to all participants as a token of appreciation for your dedication to the field. Explore vendor exhibits featuring free resources, enter raffles for program materials, and enjoy networking with fellow OST professionals. The last day to register is April 6th.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
OST directors, site coordinators, site directors, group leaders, and assistant staff committed to enhancing out-of-school time programming.
LOCATION
The conference will be held at the Grappone Conference Center, 70 Constitution Ave, Concord, NH 03301.
KEYNOTE: "The Legacy We Leave"
Presented by Jeanine K. Fitzgerald
Out-of-school time care is a profession of service that involves doing the kind of work that transforms the lives of generations who will live long beyond our presence in their lives or on this earth. We are a creative influence in the lives of our youth and through our example and leadership we transform their lives in the best possible ways. In doing so, we become the difference that makes the difference and for that we are grateful beyond measure.
Jeanine K. Fitzgerald
Jeanine draws on more than 45 years of professional experience to empower those who work with and love children to achieve more with those who are “at risk.” With experience as a certified teacher and mental health professional, she understands the promise of every child, as well as the diversity of their needs.
As a certified Human Behavior Consultant and Specialist, and Owner of The Fitzgerald Institute of Lifelong Learning, Jeanine specializes in research-based strategies in leadership and preventing the factors that compromise the fulfillment of a child’s maximum potential and implementing supportive interventions in “real life” settings. She understands the daily struggles and frustrations of educators and parents, and honors the “hero within” each individual she has the privilege to work alongside.
JOIN THE NAA COMMUNITY
Free with Your Conference Registration! The National AfterSchool Association (NAA) is THE professional membership association for individuals who work with and for youth during Out-of-School Time (OST). By attending the annual convention, you’re eligible for a FREE NAA annual membership – a $100 value!
Why join NAA?
✔️ Learn new skills, grow professionally, and gain access to exclusive resources.
✔️ Connect with a nationwide network of OST professionals.
✔️ Contribute to the growth of the OST field and support a thriving afterschool workforce.
✔️ Champion the power of afterschool to transform lives and communities.
Don’t miss this chance to join a vibrant community of OST leaders and save while you grow. Take advantage of this exclusive benefit – your free NAA membership is waiting for you!
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
All Professional Development hours will be awarded in your NH Connections Information Systems (NHCIS) training transcript within 3-5 business days after the conference. If you need assistance setting up or accessing your NHCIS account, email Cathy Hazelton at chazelton@acrossnh.org.
QUESTIONS
If you have questions about this event or registration, please contact Cathy Hazelton, ACROSS NH Assistant Director, at chazelton@acrossnh.org.
AGENDA FOR THE DAY
8:30-9:00am: Check In, Continental Breakfast, and Visit Vendor Tables
9:00-9:30am: Celebration of NH Out of School Time Professionals (Afterschool Credentials, Granite Steps for Quality, OST Champions)
9:30-10:30am: Keynote "The Legacy We Leave" by Jeanine K. Fitzgerald
10:30am-12:30pm: Morning Training Sessions
12:30-1:15pm: Lunch and Visit Vendor Tables
1:15-3:15pm: Afternoon Training Sessions
3:15pm: Raffle Prizes and Take Home Gifts for All Attendees
MORNING TRAINING SESSIONS
10:30am-12:30pm
(1A) Mindfulness in OST: Hands On Implementation Ideas
Presented by Rick Alleva, Ed.D.; NH ASMP WT, F, AP
Discover engaging and practical ways to integrate mindfulness into OST programs to support children's social, emotional, and mindful learning (SEML). This training will provide participants with hands-on experiences in a variety of mindfulness activities suitable for all ages, ranging from quick mindful moments to structured mindfulness curriculum. Participants will explore effective strategies for implementing mindfulness in OST settings, including techniques for fostering self-awareness, emotional regulation, and promoting empathy and connection in OST. Resources for expanding mindfulness practices and incorporating them into daily programming will also be shared.
(1B) Powerful Feelings: Understanding and Validating Children’s Emotions
Presented by Kimberly O'Donnell, M.S.; NH ASMP WT, IM, PC and Leanna Lorden, B.S; NH ASMP WT, PC, AP and ADS Level 6
Children’s emotions are powerful, and their behaviors often reflect deeper feelings that aren’t immediately visible. As OST professionals, it’s essential to recognize that what we see is rarely the full story. This training will explore how emotions influence behavior and provide strategies to help children feel seen, understood, and valued. Through interactive discussions and real-world scenarios, participants will learn to identify underlying emotions behind challenging behaviors, use validation techniques to foster trust and emotional growth, and create micro-opportunities for children to develop resilience and positive coping skills.
(1C) Bright Ideas: Crafting Greeting Cards with Paper Circuits
Presented by Heidi Belle-Isle, M.Ed.; NH ASMP WT, PM, ASA 4, & LE 5
Bring your greeting cards to life with the magic of paper circuits! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to design and build illuminated cards using copper tape, LEDs, and simple circuit design. Whether you’re crafting a birthday card, holiday greeting, or a heartfelt note of gratitude, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind piece that blends art and electronics. No prior experience is needed—just bring your creativity and enthusiasm for crafting!
(1D) Shine with AI: Transforming OST Programs with ChatGPT
Presented by Sonjia "Sunni" Tainter, M.S.; NH ASMP WT, ADS 6, LE 5
Harness the power of AI to elevate your out-of-school time (OST) programs and "Show Up and Shine" like never before! In this interactive session, you'll learn how to use ChatGPT as your digital assistant to streamline operations, spark creativity, and enhance engagement with staff, families, and students. Discover practical applications for curriculum planning, parent communication, and staff development that empower you to work smarter, not harder. Walk away with actionable insights, personalized tools, and the confidence to let AI help you shine in every aspect of your OST program!
(1E) The Alarm Has Sounded
Presented by Jeanine K. Fitzgerald
An adolescent once shared, “I do not know one thing that I do not fear. I am overwhelmed, confused, lost, and helpless every day.” This sentiment captures the growing anxiety among today’s youth, often referred to as the “Anxious Generation.” In this session, we will delve into the fear circuitry of the brain and examine the secondary emotions of anger and grief that frequently follow. Learn how these emotional triggers manifest into daily challenges for professionals working with children and youth. Participants will explore effective, research-based responses to better understand and support young people when the alarm of fear and distress has been sounded.
AFTERNOON TRAINING SESSIONS
1:15-3:15pm
(2A) What Would You Do? Shine Bright This Summer by Navigating Camp Challenges
Presented by Natalie D’Angelo; NH ASMP PM, ADS Level 5, and ASA Level 2 & Sondra Jones, B.A., B.S.; NH ASMP WT, ASA Level 2 and ADS Level 6 & Sonjia "Sunni" Tainter, M.S.; NH ASMP WT, ADS Level 6, ASA Level 4, and LE Level 3
Summer camp is the perfect stage to show up and shine, but unexpected moments can test even the most seasoned leaders. In this interactive and engaging training, experienced OST and camp directors will guide you through practical strategies for tackling the unique challenges of summer programming with confidence and creativity. Collaborate with peers, exchange ideas, and build a toolkit of solutions to ensure your camp not only overcomes obstacles but thrives. Let’s work together to create a safe, fun, and unforgettable camp experience-one where everyone has the chance to shine bright this summer!
(2B) Nature Journaling with School Age Kids
Presented by Lindsay Webb, Wildlife Educator
Discover the power of nature journaling as a tool for curiosity, mindfulness, and outdoor learning. Led by NH Fish and Game Wildlife Educator Lindsay Webb, this hands-on workshop will guide participants through engaging activities that incorporate writing, quantitative data collection, and artistic expression in science notebooks or journals. Learn the Words, Numbers, and Pictures approach and use nature artifacts to answer prompts such as “I notice,” “I wonder,” and “It reminds me of.” This session will provide practical strategies to help school-age children slow down, observe, and connect with the natural world in their schoolyard or outdoor spaces.
(2C) Family Stress and Resilience
Presented by Kendra Lewis, M.S., Ph.D.; NH ASMP WT, F
Families face a variety of stressors and challenges, but resilience plays a key role in how they cope and thrive. In this session, we will explore the ABC-X model of family coping, examine common stressors, and discuss strategies that families use to navigate adversity. Participants will also learn ways to provide meaningful support to families in their programs, fostering stronger connections and resilience within their communities.
(2D) Gummy Bear City: Crafting Paper Circuits & Engineering Sweet Scenes
Presented by Heidi Belle-Isle, M.Ed.; NH ASMP WT, PM, ASA 4, & LE 5
Get ready for a fun and creative hands-on workshop where paper circuits meet paper engineering! In this session, you’ll design and build your very own glowing Gummy Bear City, using LEDs, simple circuit design, and imaginative crafting techniques. Learn how to construct illuminated buildings and bring sweet details to life while exploring the basics of electronics and design. No prior experience is needed-just bring your creativity and a sweet tooth for innovation!
(2E) Shine on Your Staff: Celebration and Support to Build Your Program
Presented by Kathy Jablonski, M.Ed.; NH ASMP PM, WT, F, IM, AP & LE 5
Recognition and communication are essential for a strong, motivated team. Join this engaging session to explore the "science" behind meaningful staff recognition and discover a wealth of creative ideas to support and celebrate your frontline staff and volunteers. Be ready to participate in dynamic discussions-you’ll leave inspired and equipped with actionable strategies (and maybe even some fun surprises)!