Jessica Kohnen Karaska
The Power of Play: How High Fives and Hula Hoops Are Making a Difference in Baltimore
Play provides an unparalleled opportunity to foster the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of kids. Since 1996, Playworks has worked on-site exclusively with low-income schools, engineering a powerful system of play that is making a daily difference where it is most needed. The program has been in operation in Baltimore since 2005, and is currently playing with 10,000 students in 24 City Schools. Come hear about the critical role of play in transforming the school environment and improving the health and wellbeing of kids. Grab a ball and be part of the movement to rescue recess and put the play back on Charm City's playgrounds and schoolyards.
About Jessica Kohnen Karaska:
Jessica Kohnen Karaska is the Executive Director of Playworks Baltimore, which brings safe, inclusive and meaningful play to 10,000 students in Baltimore before, during and after school - every day. Jessica has lived in Baltimore since 2002 and has worked for the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Baltimore's Safe and Sound Campaign, and the Family League of Baltimore. She joined Playworks in October 2009 and has since improved her four square skills, though has a ways to go on double dutch. Jessica is a graduate of Vassar College and holds a Masters of Public Administration from NYU's Wagner School of Public Service.
