February 2026: Rejuvenation, impact & the power of After School 💛
February took us to a conference that reminded us exactly why afterschool professionals are the heartbeat of their communities.
On February 27–28, Nexplore attended the CAN 2026 Site Coordinator Symposium, hosted by the California Afterschool Network — and the energy in the room was powerful, emotional, and deeply inspiring.
This wasn’t just another conference. It was a space for rejuvenation, validation, and real conversations.
🌟 CAN 2026 Site Coordinator Symposium
The majority of attendees were site coordinators — the leaders who work long hours, often behind the scenes, making afterschool programs run every single day.
The tone of the symposium was clear: You matter. Your work matters. The impact is real.
Keynote speakers shared real-life stories of students whose lives were transformed years ago because of the care and consistency of a site coordinator. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
This event focused on reminding professionals that even when the work feels thankless, the ripple effect lasts for years.
💬 Meaningful Conversations at the Nexplore Table
We had powerful conversations about programming needs and trends.
There was a healthy mix of coordinators interested in:
💻 Screen-based enrichment options
✂️ Hands-on, no-screen programming
📚 Curriculum-only models
The interest in curriculum-only options sparked important conversations — especially since one of Nexplore’s biggest differentiators is that we don’t just bring curriculum — we bring the teachers too.
We also made a fun new connection with the team from Nature Watch, adding another great relationship to our growing network.
🎨 In Times of Terror, Wage Beauty
One of the most moving sessions came from ASAPconnect with their presentation:
“In Times of Terror, Wage Beauty: A Journey into Healing, Courage and Imagination.”
Inspired by Mark Gonzales’ book In Times of Terror, Wage Beauty, the session invited attendees to consider a powerful question:
When the world feels heavy and uncertain — will we react with fear, or will we wage beauty?
Through guided meditation and reflective exercises, participants explored how creativity, courage, and connection can become tools for healing — not only for students, but for entire communities.
🤝 #iAmImpact: Healing Circles & Community Care
Another standout session came from #iAmImpact, who cultivate relationships to help people thrive both personally and professionally.
Their workshop centered on healing circles and practical strategies to support students in crisis. Site coordinators were encouraged to build spaces of safety and collaboration — communities that work together instead of against one another.
It was a reminder that afterschool programs are more than enrichment — they are ecosystems of care.
✨ Why February Mattered
The CAN 2026 Site Coordinator Symposium wasn’t about flashy announcements or trends.
It was about impact.
It was about restoration.
It was about remembering that afterschool professionals change lives — sometimes quietly, but always meaningfully.
We left inspired, energized, and even more committed to supporting the leaders who support students every day.
And if February is any indication of what 2026 holds… it’s going to be a powerful year.
👉 Want to see what’s next for Nexplore?
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin, and check out our upcoming conferences and events.
Celebrating the educator behind the JOY of learning: Kaoutar Assah
At Nexplore, the magic happens inside the classroom, and this month’s Instructor of the Month is a perfect example of that magic in action. ✨
From the moment students walk in, they’re met with structure, encouragement, and FUN. With a natural ability to balance learning and excitement, this instructor creates an environment where curiosity grows, confidence builds, and every child feels seen.
Whether it’s inspiring young engineers, building meaningful relationships with families, or adding thoughtful touches that make students feel special, their dedication shows up in every detail.
🎥 Inside the Classroom
Kaoutar’s impact is best seen in the everyday classroom moments — the curiosity, the smiles, the creativity, and the confidence students build along the way.
Take a look inside her classroom and experience what joyful learning looks like in action.
💛 Thank You, Kaoutar
We are so grateful for Kaoutar’s dedication, positivity, and heart for students. Her consistency, creativity, and genuine care help create meaningful learning experiences that inspire confidence and curiosity every day.
That’s exactly what we celebrate with our Instructor of the Month. ✨
