Program Quality Initiative Cohorts 

School’s Out Washington (SOWA) supports a cohort-based learning model with the Youth Program Quality Intervention process (YPQI). This model provides a shared learning experience with peers moving together through a cycle of continuous quality improvement throughout the year. Using YPQI’s assess-plan-improve sequence, we work with programs to incorporate self-and external assessments, actionable improvement plans, and professional learning supports (i.e., coaching, training, and peer learning) to drive improvement. To find out more about starting a Youth Program Quality cohort in your area, contact Ka’ohe Wong.

Current cohorts and cohort-specific workshops are listed below.

Cohort Workshop Schedules & Quick Links

OSPI 21st Century Community Learning Centers

Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Center Program
Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
Grantees Cohorts 17, 18, and 19
September 2024 – August 2025

Please contact Benny Baird with questions about his cohort.

City of Seattle/DEEL

City Cohort 15 — CCAP Providers and Staff

Supporting school-age child care programs and staff participating in City of Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).

Please contact Samone Coleman with questions about his cohort.

Seattle University Center for Community Engagement

Seattle University’s Center for Community Engagement staff will participate in a seven-month professional development cohort focused on exploring structural racism, cultural responsiveness, social emotional skills, and empathy.

Please contact Ka’ohe Wong with questions about this cohort.

King County Best Starts for Kids Expanded Learning

Grantees who have received funding through the Best Starts for Kids Expanded Learning Initiative with School’s Out Washington are moving through the Youth Program Quality Improvement model several times over the course of the three-year grant cycle. Grantees have self-selected into cohorts within the initiative based on YPQI experience and staff capacity, each of which offer required and recommended meetings and trainings to support sites’ YPQI experience.   

Find out more information about Best Starts for Kids Expanded Learning Initiative.

Boys & Girls Clubs of King County

Youth programs utilizing the SEL PQA tool for a continuous improvement cycle
September 2024 – June 2025

Please contact Benny Baird with questions about this cohort.

YMCA of Snohomish County

School Age Child Care programs utilizing the SEL PQA tool for a continuous improvement cycle
September 2024 – June 2025.

Please contact Benny Baird with questions about this cohort.

Pierce County Program Cohort

Youth programs located in Tacoma and greater Pierce County participating in a youth program quality improvement cohort.
February 2025 – August 2025

Please contact Leandra Shelton for more information.