New Staff Elearning Resources by OregonASK
New Staff Orientation elearning Package
Building Foundations for Connection, Belonging, and Quality Practice
Whether you are new to school-age programs or bringing years of experience into a new team, this New Staff Orientation Elearning Package is designed to build a strong, shared foundation for working with youth in before- and afterschool, out-of-school-time, enrichment, and STEM programs.
These self-paced courses introduce core concepts, shared vocabulary, and practical strategies that support positive youth engagement, inclusive environments, and effective behavior support. Together, they help staff develop a common understanding of why youth behave the way they do, how to respond with intention and care, and how to create spaces where every young person feels seen, supported, and valued.
This Elearning series serves as both an entry point for new staff and a grounding refresher for veteran team members. By completing these courses together, teams build consistency in language, expectations, and approaches which will lay the groundwork for future collaboration, coaching, and continuous improvement.
New Staff Orientation Elearning Package
A strong orientation helps new staff feel confident, prepared, and connected to your program from day one. This self-paced eLearning package provides a comprehensive introduction to out-of-school time work and establishes a shared foundation for quality practice. Participants explore key concepts related to youth development, behavior guidance, inclusive practices, and building positive relationships with youth and families. The course is designed to support new staff in developing practical skills and a clear understanding of expectations in an out-of-school-time environment.
Understanding the “Why” Behind Behavior
Set ONE | Understanding and Guiding Behavior | 1 Hour
Before supporting youth with challenging behavior, it is essential to understand what needs are being met through that behavior. This Knowledge Nugget explores the influences on behavior, clarifies the difference between unsafe and concerning behavior, and introduces the ABCs of behavior (antecedent, behavior, consequence) as a foundation for effective and responsive support.
Behavior Management: Transitions and Time Fillers
Set TWO | Understanding and Guiding Behavior | 2 Hours
In this session, participants will explore strategies to transition students between different activities and reduce or eliminate waiting time. Participants will also explore activities that keep students busy and reduce behavior problems.
Disability & Neurodiversity Overview
Set ONE | Special Needs | 1 Hour
This course builds foundational understanding of disability and neurodiversity while centering strengths-based and affirming practices. Participants explore what it means to be neurodivergent, common neurodivergences such as ADHD and Autism, and how inclusive language and practices support all youth.
Inclusion & Belonging in School-Age Programs
Set ONE | Special Needs | 1 Hour
Inclusion is more than just participation—it’s about creating a space where every child feels like they belong. In this 1-hour self-paced Elearning course, you’ll gain practical strategies to foster inclusion and build a welcoming environment for youth in your out-of-school-time program.
Respectful Accommodations
Set ONE | Special Needs | 1 Hour
This Knowledge Nugget centers on respectful accommodations that build upon the strengths, abilities, and interests of program participants. You will discover a wide variety of inexpensive or free visual, auditory, physical, communication, social-emotional, and sensory supports that will have a positive influence on your program.
Together, these courses establish a shared foundation for quality practice, common language, and collaborative problem-solving. They are designed to support staff success, promote inclusive and responsive environments, and strengthen positive relationships with the youth and families you serve.