This has been quite a year.  For the past couple of weeks we have been working with Prof Sue Ann and evaluation class to finalize this part of the process regarding collection of data and writing the data up in reporting forms and templates.  I was reminded of my graduate school days.  What i like about this part of the process in particular was it gave students a real world, real time experience with community based programs and services.  Under Prof. Sue Ann's guidance, students were able to engage service providers and their participants in collecting information to create a student level database.  As a result of the process, they were privy to the challenges in administering community based programs such as lack of adequate resources;  they also saw the successes and creativity of coordinators and service providers who often leveraged their "other hats" and collegial relationships to facilitate program implementation.

We also have an opportunity to talk about best practices. Each student group de-briefed regarding their site visits.  As a result we are getting more idea of best practices and other insights and strategies.  For example, LSSU has a best practice model of mentoring via skype--what a creative use of technology. Prof. Sue Ann also shared the value of students presenting themselves in a professional manner as you never know what might lead to a job!

Next, Prof. Sue Ann briefly shared the rough drafts of ten reports;  students still have more work to do.  Second, while in class completing an evaluation plan seemed redundant and at times intrusive and awkward--too many gray areas so it was scrapped.  However what was critical was that the class and the eval team were able to arrive at this conclusion as a result of the process and at this juncture of assessment.

My next comments are on a wonderful parent workshop hosted by U-M AA team!  Chris, Kelli and i attended.  What a turn out.  That type of turn out is rare.  I shared with the team and Chris that this Southfield group would be a great group for a longitudinal study but we shall see.

And finally also, we have a working draft for the newsletter and upcoming meetings with Prof. Sue Ann, de-briefing and next steps and with the UM AA group in January to discuss next steps as well.