[SOLD OUT] 2026 Bridge Conference: The Art of Being Water

What is Bridge?

School’s Out Washington’s annual Bridge Conference brings together school-age care providers, youth development professionals, leaders, community organizers, funders, and policymakers from across the country. Attendees hear from thought-provoking presenters and learn new strategies to build strong programs and equitable systems for young people, in and out of school. Reflected in all aspects of the Bridge Conference are the values of Collectivism, Joy, Racial Equity, Belonging, and Innovation & Curiosity. Our attendees and presenters represent the diverse communities we work with across Washington state.

Our Learning Objectives

We gather to:

• Engage with diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise to broaden understanding and strengthen professional practice.
• Examine how racial inequities affect youth, expanded learning opportunities, and educational outcomes, and identify strategies to address those disparities.
• Build meaningful connections that foster a sense of belonging, collaboration, and ongoing professional networking.
• Develop practical, actionable strategies to implement high-quality programs and advance an equitable expanded learning opportunity ecosystem.
• Recognize and navigate power dynamics within programs and systems and begin co-creating stronger cross-sector partnerships.