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Original Six Foundation - From Classroom to Career: Reimagining Afterschool for Rural Students
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
Across rural South Carolina, many students lack access to high-quality enrichment and career exposure during the critical hours after school. Yet research shows the hours immediately following the school day are pivotal for learning, safety, and long-term development.
For the past decade, the Original Six Foundation has partnered with public schools across South Carolina to deliver no-cost, educator-led afterschool programming for students in rural and under-resourced communities. What began as a small pilot has grown into a collaborative model serving more than 1,000 students annually across 13 schools, combining academic support, hands-on STEAM learning, and meaningful career exploration opportunities.
The session will begin with Original Six Foundation Executive Director Kara Gormley Meador, Program Director Nick Washington, and Program Coordinator Angelica Tyler sharing how the O6 Afterschool model is helping rural students thrive. Together, they will discuss why high-quality afterschool programming is a necessity—not a luxury—in rural communities and how strategic partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations are creating new pathways to success for students.
Participants will learn how the Original Six model has evolved over the past 10 years to connect students with professionals, workplaces, and career experiences that broaden horizons and inspire future goals. From classroom career speakers to behind-the-scenes visits at companies such as Boeing, Honda, manufacturing facilities, law firms, and colleges, O6 is helping students see what is possible long before they enter the workforce.
Following a brief presentation, Kara Gormley Meador will moderate a dynamic panel discussion featuring leaders from education, workforce development, and industry who are helping shape South Carolina's future talent pipeline. Panelists will share insights on workforce trends, career readiness, employer engagement, and the importance of exposing students to career opportunities early.
Panelists include:
  • Debbie Jones, Pee Dee Regional Workforce Advisor, South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce
  • Robert Wingard, Honda
  • Stacey McDonald, Principal, Palmetto Middle School, Marion County School District
  • Nick Washington, Original Six Foundation 
Attendees will leave with practical strategies for designing nimble, responsive afterschool programming that aligns with school priorities, strengthens community partnerships, and equips students with the awareness and skills needed for future success.

Speakers
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Angelica Tyler

Program Coordinator, Original Six Foundation
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Nick Washington

Program Director, Original Six Foundation
Nick Washington has been the Program Director for the Original Six Foundation since 2016. Nick received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Francis Marion University. With nearly two decades in the field, he has extensive nonprofit and youth development experience. He... Read More →
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Kara Gormely Meador

Executive Director, Original Six Foundation
Kara Gormley Meador joined the Original Six Foundation as Executive Director in July 2022 and has since led the organization through a period of significant growth and expanded impact across South Carolina. Under Kara’s leadership, the Foundation rebranded and strengthened its core... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

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