On Saturday, September 13, afterschool professionals from across southwest Missouri gathered at Nixa Jr. High for the region’s first MOSAC Mini, the Southwest Afterschool Professionals (SWAP) Conference. Hosted in partnership with local program leaders, the event delivered high-quality professional development, meaningful networking, and renewed inspiration for the field.
For many, the day filled a long-standing gap in local opportunities. “It’s been years since we’ve had an in-person event like this in southwest Missouri dedicated to the afterschool field,” said Ashlee Liska, MASN associate director of quality. “It was truly refreshing to see so many afterschool professionals from our region come together for a day filled with networking, professional growth, and the exchange of ideas.”
The planning committee echoed the importance of bringing this level of training closer to home. Kelly Thomas, a committee member and the Salvation Army of Springfield, Community Center Director, shared, “The SWAP conference was needed in southwest Missouri due to the limited availability of in-person staff development for afterschool providers in our area. Staff training and development empower afterschool staff to create safe, enriching, and inclusive spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to grow. Our staff also loved connecting and learning with other afterschool professionals.”
Committee member Cris Torres, Nixa XLT, Program Coordinator, added, “I am so proud to support our before and after school professionals in southwest Missouri. SWAP was able to secure such great presenters that were fun, knowledgeable, and very personal. It was great to see our professionals come together to share information and support one another.”
Participant feedback reinforced the event’s success. Attendees highlighted the value of both the content and the atmosphere:
- “Thank you for bringing a Training Day to our local area where we could bring as many of our staff with us…. I know next year even more of my staff will carve out time to come.”
- “Fun activities and fun people—one of the most fun trainings I’ve ever done!”
- “Presenters were all great… I feel all of the information will improve my classroom in a positive way.”
- “They were all good topics with great tips and tricks I’m able to take back. The Hotdog Tag was a funny game I think my kids will love. I also need to learn to fill my own cup as well as my staff, so they don’t get burnt out. That was a great takeaway.”
- “The length of the conference was great. The subjects were relevant… Sometimes a garden hose of information is better than a fire hydrant.”
With a full day of interactive sessions, practical strategies, and community building, SWAP exemplified the mission of MOSAC Minis: to make high-quality professional development more accessible for afterschool professionals across Missouri.
By all measures, the event was a success—and participants are already looking forward to next year.
