A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

Measuring Success:
How to Evaluate a Program's Accomplishments

Community Learning Center programs are by nature complex, and no matter how well designed, must learn from experience. Continuous monitoring of the progress of a program--in addition to a shared understanding of the program's goals--can help leaders and staff maintain their focus, improve effectiveness and accountability, ensure parent and participant satisfaction, and identify necessary changes. Continuous monitoring allows a program's director to assess whether its key features are working as intended, and helps the program to do better than before.

Principles of Good Evaluations Good evaluations: Are done by and with families and partners--not to them Gather information continuously to assess progress toward established goals, measure how strategies are working, and determine whether efforts are achieving desired results Engage the school, community, and other stakeholders Reflect an understanding of school and community contexts Use varied perspectives to examine programs and activities Gather several types of information Stay flexible

Evaluation involves five basic stages (see Appendix H for more details):

1. Focusing on goals and objectives for program strategies and using them as a guide for continuous assessment (see Appendix I for elements of quality in school-age child care).
2. Clarifying assumptions about the processes by which the program should work.
3. Selecting indicators of success.
4. Collecting information.
5. Analyzing and using information for continuous program improvement.

Selecting Indicators of Success Has there been improvement in: Attendance Graduation rates Teacher evaluations of: Motivation Progress Discipline Drug use prevention and reduction Grades and test scores Reading Math and Science Parental satisfaction with: Safety Progress Increased opportunities Enrichment Arts Additional use of computers Have the following occurred: All program components are in place and function as intended There is a free flow of information There is a clear system of accountability All participants are satisfied with processes, or review and revision is taking place There is a proper outlet for new ideas and for criticism All children in the school community are being encouraged to participate

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[How to Open Schools for Extended Learning and Safety After Hours and During the Summer]

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