Since its inception in 1998 as the Kids’ Time Trainer Network, the now called CalSAC Trainer Network has aimed to provide a diverse array of experiential, interactive training and learning opportunities that build the skills and confidence of youth providers at all levels, from line staff and practitioners to managers and program directors. Each year we seek to increase the number of youth across California who benefit from quality out-of-school time (OST) programs, by serving OST professionals who work with kids from all communities and programs of all sizes.

Application Process

If accepted into the Trainer Network, participants are required to:

  • Attend a 60-minute pre-Training of Trainers orientation webinar. If you cannot attend one of the scheduled webinar dates we will schedule a one-on-one orientation call with you.

  • Complete self-reflection prior to the Training of Trainers, developed from the trainer competencies.

  • Submit a one-time fee (if accepted). This fee covers the full Trainer Network certification process: three days of professional development at the Training of Trainers (meals, materials and shared accommodations for two nights), mentorship, observation, and certification support. Travel to the Training of Trainers and to subsequent trainings is not included.

  • Attend in full the 3-day Training of Trainers

Applications are CLOSED for our Fall Training of Trainers (ToT)
Questions? Email our Program Manager, Vincent Arroyo at varroyo@calsac.org

Trainer Network Info Sessions

Curious to learn more about CalSAC's Trainer Network Trainer of Trainings and Certification Process? Check out the recording of our informational webinar or email our Program Manager, Vincent at varroyo@calsac.org.

 
 

Trainer Network Testimonials

Approach to Adult Learning 

The CalSAC Trainer Network is grounded in the belief that the out-of-school time workforce is full of talented, passionate leaders who care deeply for young people and their success. They bring an array of knowledge and experience gained through informal learning and through years of being on the ground implementing quality youth programs. Our approach helps professionals make the most of their knowledge and passion by creating a space to share and learn from one another while deepening their skills.

Trainer Competencies

CalSAC believes the competencies for trainers in the field of out-of-school time, based on best practices in training adults, provide a necessary starting point for ensuring that the training and support the field receives is of the highest quality. CalSAC’s Trainer Competencies offer a framework that trainers can use to assess and build upon their skills and knowledge.

Adult Learning| Training Delivery| Professionalism and Ethics| Equity and Diversity | Co-Training


Becoming a CalSAC Trainer - Certification Process

CalSAC Apprentice Trainers complete an 8-month certification process where they participate in a three-day intensive Trainer Network Institute, implement CalSAC's on-site training curriculum to programs in their community, and receive ongoing mentoring from a Senior Certified Trainer.  

The Trainer Network is the beginning of the trainer's journey, and is foundational to the CalSAC trainer experience.  This multi-day, rigorous professional development experience prepares participants to deliver high-quality training and thrive as members of the CalSAC Trainer Network.  Participants leave the Trainer Network Institute equipped with a range of resources, new contacts and a deeper connection to the out-of-school time community.

CalSAC's Trainer Network builds the training and facilitation skills of out-of-school time professionals and connects them to a vast network of their peers, organizations and resources to help them develop professionally and deepen their impact on the children and communities they serve.  In turn, these individuals provide training and support to staff working in a variety of youth development programs across the state.  When individual providers increase their skills and confidence, it benefits not just the young people they work with, but the strength of the out-of-school time field as a whole.

Professionals who join the Trainer Network hone and deepen their:

  • Training and facilitation skills

  • Ability to deliver effective technical assistance

  • Leadership capacity

  • Knowledge and connection to the statewide out-of-school time field

Ready to learn more? Reach out to Vincent Arroyo, Program Manager, varroyo@calsac.org for more information.

Become a Community Sponsor

Since its inception in 1998, the Trainer Network has remained a steadfast capacity building resource; evolving into the largest network of trainers in the out-of-school-Time (OST) field in the country. The CalSAC Trainer Network builds the training and facilitation skills of leaders in the field, who in turn provide training to professionals working in a variety of out-of-school time programs across California.

By becoming a Community Sponsor, you are taking a proactive role in enhancing the skills of out-of-school time professionals, enabling them to better serve the needs and interests of young people throughout California. Your generous support not only empowers us to provide affordable opportunities for those who might otherwise face financial barriers, but also allows us to collectively influence the lives of these professionals. Together, we can make a significant and positive difference in the lives of out-of-school time professionals and, by extension, the youth they serve.

Will you join us in empowering and supporting the growth of out-of-school time professionals by becoming a Community Sponsor? 

For more information, contact Jennifer Merrill at jmerrill@calsac.org or (510) 444-4622 x105.