4-H PYD Academy
Up your PYD practice!
The 4-H PYD Academy equips 4-H and other youth development professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to plan, implement and evaluate high-quality positive youth development (PYD) programs that help youth thrive.
Upcoming PYD Academy Opportunities
PYD Spotlight Day: Beyond Ready to Thrive
Oct. 14
Foundations of PYD for 4-H Professionals
Sept. 30-Dec. 4
Program Planning and Evaluation for PYD Impact
Sept. 30-Dec. 5
4-H PYD Spotlight Day: Beyond Ready to Thrive
For the past twenty years, research on the 4-H program conducted by Dr. Richard Lerner at Tufts University and Dr. Jacqueline Lerner at Boston College has revealed the incredible impact 4-H has on youth. This is something to celebrate!
At this year's PYD Spotlight Day, Rich and Jackie will share the results of these many years of research demonstrating the lasting effects of 4-H into adulthood. Discover how 4-H empowers youth to thrive, not just now, but throughout their lives. Join us for this first opportunity as we introduce 4-H's new national initiative, Beyond Ready, to learn the evidence that supports 4-H's ability to help youth be ready for work and life.
Date: Oct. 14
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM MDT
Location: Boise, ID or Virtual
Cost: $75-100
Foundations of PYD for 4-H Professionals
This course provides educators with a comprehensive introduction to the science and practice of positive youth development in 4-H. Participants learn how to move from theory to action through intentional program planning and increase your capacity for the evaluation of PYD as defined by the 4-H Thriving Model.
It's recommended for all 4-H professionals interested in developing a fundamental understanding of PYD and the 4-H Thriving Model. It's especially recommended for those within the first three years of their 4-H careers, including educators, specialists, and program leaders.
This course has two phases to support further learning. Phase one is included for all participants and contains 30 hours of virtual learning over ten weeks. Those looking to maximize their learning can add phase two, called Learning Circles. Learning Circles offer an opportunity to learn practical applications and collaborate with a group over an additional 4 months, while receiving support and guidance in applying newfound knowledge to real-world practice.
Academy Sessions: Sept. 30 – Dec. 4
Learning Circles: Jan. 7 – Apr. 3
Location: Virtual
Cost: $375-500
Program Planning and Evaluation for PYD Impact
This course prepares educators to intentionally plan and evaluate PYD programming as defined by the 4-H Thriving Model. Participants learn how to move from theory to action through intentional program planning and increase their capacity for the evaluation of PYD as defined by the 4-H Thriving Model.
It is recommended for all 4-H professionals with a minimum of 3 years of 4-H career or other relevant youth development experience and an interest in program evaluation related to PYD and the 4-H Thriving Model.
This course also offers two phases to deepen your learning journey. Phase one is included for all participants and contains 20 hours of virtual learning over ten weeks. In phase two, participants can join the Learning Circles to extend and continue their learning with a group, over an additional 4 months, while receiving support and guidance in applying newfound knowledge to real-world practice.
Academy Sessions: Sept. 30 – Dec. 5
Learning Circles: Jan. 7 – Apr. 3
Location: Virtual
Cost: $250-375
Helping Youth THRIVE
- Sparks: Providing a place where youth can find and explore what sparks their interest.
- Belonging: Creating spaces of belonging—where ALL kids feel welcome and physically and emotionally safe.
- Relationships: Nurturing positive, supportive and empowering relationships between youth and adults and youth and their peers.
- Engagement: Challenging and encouraging youth to pursue their own learning and growth. Promoting active engagement where youth have a voice.
In Partnership with PLWG and NAE4‑HYDP
PYD Academies are brought to you by the 4‑H Standing Committee on Positive Youth Development, a PLWG chartered committee. The purpose of the committee is to advance the science and research foundation of positive youth development across the 4‑H system. 4‑H PYD Academies are produced in collaboration with the National Association of 4-H Youth Development Professionals (NAE4-HYDP) and with the convening and financial support of National 4‑H Council.
For questions regarding PYD Academies, please contact Janet Golden.
