Mark Noftz has been an out-of-school time (OST) professional since 2008 when he began tutoring in afterschool programs. He quickly developed a passion for these programs because of their impact and the opportunities they create for youth. Mark then moved into various leadership roles in the OST field. From 2010-2018, Mark served as a Center Director and Site Coordinator for Horizon Education Centers where he managed various 21^st CCLC afterschool programs in Elyria and Cleveland.

Mark’s experience in 21^st CCLC includes program management, grant writing, curriculum development, staff development, training, and data reporting and entry. In addition, Mark has presented at various out-of-school conferences and has made several trips to Washington D.C. and Columbus, OH to advocate for OST funding. Mark became the COSA Training Director in July 2018.

Mark holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University in addition to a current State of Ohio teaching certification in grades 7-12 Language Arts.