revised project girls education and mentoring stragetic plan 2010

7/30/2019 Revised Project Girls Education and Mentoring Stragetic Plan 2010

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Project Girls Education and Mentoring (G.E.M) Committee

Strategic Planning Project Start: September 2010

Strategic Planning Project End: November 2010

Abstract

The Project Girls Education and Mentoring committee was formed to

offer an educational after-school program for girls only aged 5-18. This

committee is collaboration between the Junior League of Fort Smith and Girls

Inc. of Fort Smith, Arkansas. This strategic plan was developed to provide a

safe environment with educational and recreational programs that encourage

girls to take risks and master physical, intellectual, and emotional

challenges. The accomplishment of this strategic plan is to develop strategic

goals and strategies based upon the Project Girls Education and Mentoring

curriculum. This curriculum included technology, physical fitness, and career

exploration, public service within the community, literacy, and good study

skills. The plan focused upon meeting the technology needs of girls ages 14-

18 at the Girls Inc. of Fort Smith, Arkansas. The specific focal area of

technology is web-based technologies, specifically, implementing the use of

web 2.0 tools and various web sites that offer applications for girls. The plan

utilized the project management techniques of the Pert chart and the Gantt

chart to ensure the project remained on schedule and the tasks werecompleted.

The Project Girls Education and Mentoring committee and Beashua

Spearman, strategic planning facilitator worked together on creating a

technology vision, technology evaluation, a technology needs assessment,

and a three-year technology action plan.

Technology Vision

Project Girls Education and Mentoring (G.E.M.) is a committee of five

women, which was formed to offer an educational after-school program forgirls between the ages of 14 and 18. This committee is collaboration

between the Junior League of Fort Smith and Girls Inc. of Fort Smith,

Arkansas. The Girls inc. of Fort Smith Arkansas is the only Girls Inc. located

in Arkansas, currently there are 45 staff members, and it serves

approximately 68 girls per day. The goal of Project Girls Education and

Mentoring (G.E.M.) is to provide a safe environment with educational and


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recreational programs that encourage girls to take risks and master physical,

intellectual, and emotional challenges. The Project Girls Education and

Mentoring curriculum includes technology, physical fitness, and career

exploration, public service within the community, literacy, and good study

skills. The stakeholders who share the vision of GEM are as follows:

Gennifer Arbor, Project G.E.M. Committee Chairperson- Gennifer

Arbor is technology savvy; she has a digital photography certification,

immediate knowledge of Adobe creative suite CS3 and CS4, and using

internet browsers, such as: Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, and Mozilla

Firefox. Windows XP and Windows Vista operating software, and MicrosoftOffice Suite 2003 and 2007 professional edition. She prefers the

communication methods via Facebook, texting, and email.

Ruth Malden, Project G.E.M. Committee Co-Chairperson- is not as

technology savvy as Ms. Arbor, she is trained in Windows XP and

Windows Vista operating software, Microsoft Office Suite home and

school edition 2003 and 2007, Apple Mac computers, and using internet

browsers, such as Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox. Her preferred

method of communication is email, cell phone, texting, and Vyew,

collaboration software, which is similar to Elluminate.

Monica McKinney, Fort Smith Girls Inc. Executive Director- is

skilled in the field of graphic design and web designing, she prefers Dell

computers, Windows Vista, and Microsoft Office Suite 2007 professional

edition, and using internet browsers, such as: Internet Explorer, Google

Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Her preferred communication methods are

Facebook, MySpace, texting, twitter, email, and the cell phone.

Sara Harris, Fort Smith Girls Inc. Executive Assistant- is skilled in

using Windows XP and Vista operating software, Microsoft Office Suite

2003 and 2007, using internet browsers such as: Internet Explorer,

Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. Her preferred method of

communication is texting, email, Facebook, Skype, and the cell phone.

Marie Thomas, Project G.E.M. Committee Research Chairperson,

Junior League of Fort Smith member and Girls Inc. board


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memberis skilled in the use of using internet browsers such as:

Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox, Windows XP operating software,

Microsoft Office Suite 2003. Her preferred method of communication is

email, Facebook, texting, and the cell phone.

The girls who are members of Girls Inc. and their parents. According to

aresearch survey conducted by the Arkansas Girls Inc. 80% of the girlsare trained in Windows XP and Microsoft Office Suite 2003 Word,

PowerPoint, and One note. They are trained in the use of using internet

browsers such as: Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, and Mozilla

Firefox. Their preferred method of communication is texting, twitter,

and Facebook. According to a research survey conducted by theArkansas Girls Inc. 60% of the parents are trained in Windows XP,

Microsoft Office Suite 2003 Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

The long-term needs Project Girls Education and Mentoring (G.E.M.) are

trying to address are to increase the usage of technology of girls between

the ages of 14 and 18 as well as to allow those girls to explore non-

traditional jobs for women within the technology-related career fields.

The techniques/methods used to develop the technology vision were

taken from the section titled Create a First Draft Vision Statementin theHow to Create a Vision (or Compelling Goal) Statementarticle within the

Building Capacity for Change Sourcebook (please view Appendix A,

Technology Vision ). The techniques used were a series of questions and

exercises that allowed each Project G.E.M. committee member to relax and

think of a word, sentence, or phrase that best described their answer. I

included these methods in a technology vision meeting at the Fort Smith

Public Library. During this meeting, Gennifer Arbor, GEM committee chair,

Ruth Malden, GEM committee Co-chair, Monica McKinney, Girls Inc.

Executive Director, Sara Harris, Girls Inc. Executive Assistant, MarieThomas, GEM research chair, and the youth leadership girls of Girls Inc. and

their parents were present. During this meeting, I held a 30 minute

brainstorming activity which allowed me to ask the committee to sit quietly,

relax, and think about a positive image of where Project GEM wants to be in

3 years, for example, an increased excitement to learn more about non-

traditional careers, 16-18 year olds who completed the GEM program and
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are now majoring in nontraditional technology fields. I asked them to allow it

to surface in their minds. After we explored the positive image, I instructed

them to allow the image to fade and write their thoughts about what they

had envisioned on the materials I had provided. I read a series of questions

and allowed them to sit quietly, think about the answer, envision a response

and an image and write it down. Once we completed this exercise, I

collected all of the comments and informed the Project G.E.M. committee

that I was going to create a first draft. I completed the first draft by

Wednesday afternoon and on Thursday, I had 11 revisions. I revised the

vision statement and re-submitted it to the Project G.E.M. committee and

they returned it by email with 5 revisions. I revised the vision statement and

sent it for correction to the Project G.E.M. committee and they sent 2 final

revisions. Friday October 8, 2010, I submitted a final draft and it was

accepted.

Technology Vision Statement

The Project Girls Education and Mentoring (G.E.M.) strives to improve the

technology use of girls aged 14-18 to explore and learn about non-

traditional careers in technology by actively participating in the Fort Smith,

Arkansass Girls Inc., which shall enhance the lives of girls and the alliance

of the Junior League of Fort Smith, Arkansas and Girls Inc. of Fort Smith.

Technology Evaluation

Project GEM will occur as an after school activity at the Girls Inc. of

Fort Smith, Arkansas. Project GEM is scheduled to meet the third Tuesday of

each month for two hours. Project GEM will serve approximately 68 girls who

are current members of the Girls Inc. of Fort Smith, Arkansas. The focal

points of the technology evaluation are the web-based internet technologies,

for example, web 2.0 tools, and simulation technology-related websites

targeted for girls. The stakeholders are as follows: Gennifer Arbor, GEM

chair; Ruth Malden, GEM co-chair; Marie Thomas, GEM research chair and

Girls Inc. board member; Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. executive director, the

members (the girls) and their parents of Girls Inc.; and lastly, Sara Harris,

Girls Inc. executive assistant. The major purpose of the evaluation is to


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determine which web-based, internet technologies will inspire and motivate

girls to improve their academic grades, and encourage and inspire them to

learn how to use technology in order to encourage career exploration of non-

traditional/ technology based careers. (Please view the technology

evaluation checklists in theAppendix A at the end of this strategic plan.

The questions I asked were specific to understanding the focal point of the

technology evaluation in order to learn what type of computers, peripherals,

and web-based/ internet technologies Girls Inc. had. These questions were

very important to answer and to determine what Girls Inc. was currently

using and what they were not currently using. I chose these questions to

determine what technologies Project GEM did not have and to determine ifGirls Inc. had any of those technologies.

The questions specific to the focal point of the evaluation are:

1.What type of computers and peripherals does Project GEM

have?

The process I used to create the following prioritized list was obtaining a

blank copy and a completed copy of the Girls Inc. technology inventory

list from Sara Harris, Girls Inc. executive assistant. I used the method ofobservation to observe and investigate the current technology inventory

of Girls Inc of Fort Smith, Arkansas. Ms. Harris stated the method of their

evaluation to complete this task is observation and their inventory list is

purposely left blank to record and update technology inventory every six

months. I chose the observation method to complete the task of learning

what type of computers the Girls Inc. media lab currently offers. During

this process, I found 8 computers that are currently used at Girls Inc. 5

desktop computers are used in the Girls Inc. media lab and 2 desktops

are used in the main office of Girls Inc. 1 notebook computer is used inaddition to one of the desktop computers in Monica McKinneys office.

2. Who is skilled in the use of delivering technology to the girls?

The staff is highly trained in delivering the use of technology but as

recently, they have hired three new employees who are not technology

savvy.


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3.What funding is currently provided for technology?

The current finding that is provided for the technology aspect of ProjectGEM is a budget of $2,000.00. There are possible in-kind donations from

Fort Smith, Arkansas businesses, the Junior League of Fort Smith

members, and area donors but these donations have yet to be secured.

4.Who is using web based/ internet technologies?

At this current time, there are five websites used by Girls Inc, these website

are used to promote academic excellence, teach financial education,

promote self-esteem, self-confidence, and encouraging girls, they can do

anything they choose.

6. How is technology used in the business office?

Technology is currently used in the Girls Inc. business office to conduct

executive and administrative duties.

8. How is technology used in the Girls Inc. media lab?

Technology is used in the Girls Inc. media lab to educate the girls in using

it, allow them to have fun with it, and to use it as an educational

supplemental tool

9. How many girls are in this program?

There are currently 68 girls in this program.

10. How often are the web based/internet technologies used in

Project GEM? The websites are used every day at the Girls Inc and Project

GEM intends to increase the use of five websites to at least ten.

11. Which websites or software is used most?

The websites most used are the Josie Girl because it allows the girls to

receive an educational supplement as well as experience fun career

exploration.

12. Which software or web based/ internet technologies are used

least?


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The outdated software programs that are over 5 years or no longer operate

on Windows Vista.

13. What type of technology is used in the Project GEM office and

media lab? Windows Vista operating software and Microsoft Office suite

2007.

14. Are the computers and the peripherals leased or purchased?

According to Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. executive director, the computers

and the peripherals were originally donated to Girls Inc. through the Best

Buy foundation.

15. What operating systems are used?

Review question 13.

17. What electronic mail system does Project GEM use?

The electronic mail system is currently hosted through the NetObjects Fusion web

hosting company.

18. What technologies are used in the network technologies WAN

or LAN?

LAN - Local Area Network technologies are currently at the Girls Inc. of Fort Smith,Arkansas.

To obtain information of the following data sources I need to decide

what information I need to obtain and the method that will best fit

the information with our technology evaluation. The data that was

obtained during this technology evaluation is listed in appendix A

under technology evaluation as technology evaluation checklist.

The first information that I must obtain is to

1. Look at Project GEM technology inventory records. I used the methods of

gathering existing records and recording the findings Method of technology

evaluation I will use: Observation and gather existing records and record the

findings.


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2. Look over the technology curriculum of the Project GEM will use. Method

of technology evaluation I will use: gather the existing records and record the

findings in order to find the gap, which is our need.

3. Interview the Project GEM committee. Method of technology evaluation I

will use: Individual Interviews to interview each GEM committee member.

4. Survey the Project GEM/ Girls Inc. staff and volunteers.Method of

technology evaluation I will use are surveys, for example, I will complete a survey

via Survey Monkey to complete this task.

5. Log into the Project GEM web based/ internet system and play with it,

take notes of the current web based/ internet system. Method of technologyevaluation: Observations, Gather Existing Records and record the findings from the

observation.

6. Read the hardware/software/ peripheral manuals. Method of technology

evaluation: Observations gather existing records and record the findings.

7. Read the Project GEM technology curriculum. Based upon this curriculum,

decide upon equipment or technology that will be needed, decide if it iscurrent, needed to purchase, or leased. The methods used to gather data was

gathering existing records and record the findings.

The following requirements or barriers are circumstances that may or may

not influence my evaluation. I chose these requirements and barriers

because they may enhance or hinder the technology evaluation of the Girls

Inc.

The other requirements or barriers that would affect the

evaluation are:

1. What if there are no existing records?

2. Records may be confidentialrecords may not be kept well


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3. There may be no inventories

4. There may not be time for interviews due to the busy nature of thecommittee and the chairpersons.

5. Some committee members may not want to complete a survey or

feel they have time to complete a survey.

6. Some committees members may feel that I should not have access

to log into the computers, manuals, and likewise.

7. The Girls Inc. may have strict policies against non-employees and

non-members of Project GEM to access or log into their computers.

8. Some people may feel that it is an invasion of their private records

and may decide not to participate

The following information I need to complete an observation of the Girls

Inc. technology evaluation is categorized and the process I used is from

the Girls Inc. technology inventory list. I was not given permission to

make a copy of it but I did observe the following:

The item (e.g. desktop, PC)

The quantity

UPC/SKU Code #

The specifications of the desktop pc, notebook pc, Mac computer

Peripherals: Printers, fax machines, copiers, scanners

Portable Devices: PDAs, MP3 Players

Internal and external software

Websites and web based technologies.

I included the processor type, manufacturer (brand name), disk

configuration, system unit, modem, CD/DVD drive, memory


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confirmation of the pc or the Mac computer, the quantity of the

monitors mouse, speaker keyboard.

In order to interview the Project GEM committee members, I created the

following set of questions to learn their expectations of GEM. I held an

individual conference via Skype with Susan Pruitt, Project GEM committee

chair to gain the answers to the questions. I later continued to interview

each committee member via email, Skype, or cell phone.

To complete the interview method, I need to interview the Project

GEM committee members and use the following set of questions to

understand the immediate needs of Project GEM. I conducted the

interviews with the committee members of Project GEM using the

communication methods of Skype, email, and cell phone. The

answers from the interviews have been summarized and placed

beneath each question.1. Which technologies do you use today?

The technologies Girls Inc. is currently using are age and grade appropriate

software, theJosie true website, and the Girls Inc. website.

2. How does technology support Project GEMs goals?

Technology supports GEMs goals in allowing girls to learn non-traditional

careers in technology, play with technology, and learn how to safely use a

computer.

3. What tools and resources are necessary to complete the technology

curriculum of Project GEM?

The tools and resources that are necessary to complete the technologycurriculum of Project GEM is the addition of new hardware, hiring a

computer help specialist for GEM, an instructional designer, adding new

software if necessary.

4. Describe the Project GEM budget compared with last year?

There is no previous budget because this is a new program.
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5. What is the budget for Project GEM?

The Project GEM budget is $2,000.00

6. What are the planned projects of the Project GEM technology curriculum?

The girls will have various technology components to learn, for example, we

are introducing Microsoft Office Suite 2007, Windows Vista operating system

service pack 2, new websites, and web 2.0 tools.

7. Is Project GEM purchasing or leasing equipment?

Girls Inc. owns their current equipment. Project GEM will use the technology

equipment of the Girls Inc.

9. Discuss the similarities/differences between the Project GEM technology

curriculum and the technology curriculum of Girls Inc.?

The differences of the Project GEM and Girls Inc. technology curriculums are

Girls Inc. is more focused on Science, Math and Relevant Technology and

Project GEM is more focused upon teaching the girls technology that will

inspire them to explore non-traditional technology careers.

To obtain the following information of the specific data instruments/ tools, Ineed to:

Conduct interviews of each member of the GEM committee, the youth leadership

program girls and their parents

Conduct an observation of the Girls inc. technology, media lab, office, and their

software.

Complete the observations of the Project GEM and the Girls Inc. technology

curriculum.

I plan to bring the data together in a coherent fashion to determine the

technology needs of Project GEM. I gathered the existing records of the Project

GEM by submitting an inquiry to Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. executive

director. Most of the Girls Inc. records are considered confidential and

may not be viewed unless I am a parent of a Girl Inc. member, a board member

or a part of the GEM committee. I was allowed to view the Technology inventory

list and I was able to use this list to conduct the observations of the Girls Inc.

business office and media lab.


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According to the Girls Inc. technology inventory list there were 9 desktop PCs, 1

notebook PC, 10 manuals for each computer, and 1 copier, 3 scanners, and 1 All-in-

One Lexmark printer, 2 Laser printers.

Needs AssessmentThe participants/stakeholders are: Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. ExecutiveDirector; Marie Thomas, GEM Research Chair & Girls Inc. board member;Gennifer Arbor, GEM Chair; Amanda Tolbert, Junior League of Fort SmithFinancial Vice President; Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. Executive Director,and Sara Harris Girls Inc. Executive Assistant.

The purpose of the needs assessment is to include web-based technology

such as promoting and using web-based technology, obtaining new orrefurbished computers, implementing staff and volunteer developmenttechnology training, and implementing an increase in the current GEMbudget, receiving in-kind donations from local businesses and local donors.The perspectives of the participants are the needs for the Girls Educationand Mentoring program. This includes web-based technology such aspromoting and using websites such asEngineer Girlto teach girls aboutthe field of engineering and what it entails, how to pursue this field, andwhat type of education the field of engineering involves. Anotherperspective is to create a library of web-based technology that is free toGEM and Girls Inc. that will allow the Girls to simulate the career of anengineer. For example, the websiteEngineer Your Lifeallows girls tobecome an Engineer for a few hours and learn about the career ofengineering and women.

The data that was gathered identifies the questions that would ascertainthe needs mentioned below: These include: What type of training do theGirls Inc. staff and volunteers need? The data gathering methods used toaddress the each question above are: Survey and Interviews. The purposeof the need assessment for Project GEM is to identify the gaps we are tryingto fill which are the needs for additional hardware in the Girls Inc. media

lab, to conduct a prescribed staff and volunteer technology training, and toinvestigate if there is there a need to increase the budget of GEM.

To determine if the Girls Inc. staff and their volunteers are accuratelytrained, I used the data gathering technique of surveying the staff andvolunteers of Girls Inc. I usedSurvey monkeyto create and maintain thesurvey, I then gathered all of the staff and volunteers email addresses and

placed a phone call informing them of the survey and why it is imperative for
http://www.engineergirl.org/http://www.engineergirl.org/http://www.engineergirl.org/http://www.engineeryourlife.org/http://www.engineeryourlife.org/http://www.engineeryourlife.org/http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFZNDZQhttp://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFZNDZQhttp://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFZNDZQhttp://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFZNDZQhttp://www.engineeryourlife.org/http://www.engineergirl.org/


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them to complete it within 2-5 business days. Each staff member andvolunteer was very helpful and quick to respond with his or her completed

surveys.The Girls Inc. staff and volunteers are currently trained and are verytechnologically perceptive. According to Monica McKinney, the staff andvolunteers undergo an additional 10 hours each month to complete on-linecertification that meets or exceeds the Girls Inc. technology staff goals. Thevolunteers who are Girls Inc. parents and community volunteers receive 5hours of training per month free of charge through collaboration with theAdult Education Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The Junior League of FortSmith has collaboration through the Adult Education Center and theUniversity of

Arkansas-Fort Smith Life Long Institute, which allows their volunteers toreceive free or a discounted rate of technology training.

A. What Do the Project GEM and Junior League volunteers needtraining in current web-based technologies? The data gatheringmethods used to address the each question above are Survey andInterviews

B. Is it necessary for Project GEM to add new computers to the medialab of Girls Inc? The data gathering methods used to address theeach question above are: Observation and Interviews. The JuniorLeague volunteers and members may need to be trained in web-

based technology training due to the different age factors.According to the membership records of the Junior League of FortSmith; 90% of the members of Junior League are age of 45 andyounger, but the remaining 10% are members who are over 45 andmay not have a vast amount of experience with technology.

C. Is it necessary for Project GEM to add new software to the medialab of Girls Inc? The data gathering methods used to address theeach question above are: Interviews and Observation, The Girls Inc.media lab needs 5 additional desktop computers. To determine ifthe Girls Inc. media lab needs 5 additional desktop computers, I

used the data gathering technique of observation method and theinterview method to determine if additional desktop computersneed be purchased. Receiving or purchasing refurbished computerswith Windows Vista will meet the need. They do not have to bebrand new, Windows 7, or Microsoft Office 2010; in fact, they needrefurbished computers with Windows Vista and Office 2007. Thepurpose of obtaining 5 additional computers is because the rotatingstations of Project GEM consist of 12 girls each per station


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D.It is not necessary to add more software to the computer labbecause Girls Inc. has over 300 software titles that are age and

grade appropriate. To determine if the Girls Inc. media lab needsadditional software, I used the data gathering technique ofobservation.

E. Do Project Girls Education and Mentoring participants needsimulated web based technologies? The data gathering methodsused to address the each question above are: Survey andInterviews. To determine the final need, I used the data gatheringtechnique of interviews. I interviewed each Girls Inc. staff memberand Project GEM committee member to determine if they needweb-based simulated technologies. The web-based technologies

that is currently used at Girls Inc. iswebsitesThe Project GEM committee stated it was crucial to include these types ofweb-based technologies such as web 2.0 tools and websites to allow the girlsa sense of adventure, education, and career exploration.

The people who are responsible for each of the identified datagathering methods are listed by number of the questions above andare follows:

A. Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. Executive Director

B. Marie Thomas, GEM Research Chair & Girls Inc. board member

C. Gennifer Arbor, GEM Chair; Amanda Tolbert, Junior League of FortSmith Financial Vice President

D. Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. Executive Director, Rebecca Harris GirlsInc. Executive Assistant

E. Marie Thomas, GEM Research Chair & Girls Inc. board member

Categorized list of needs

The categorized lists of needs are:

Implementing web-based technologies into GEM (Implementing web2.0 tools)

Hiring an Instructional designer to create web-based simulatedtechnologies for Project GEM.

Hiring a computer help desk specialist for the purpose of GEM.

Training of Girls Inc and GEM staff members and volunteers.


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Prioritization list of Needs

The critical needs are:

Purchasing 5 additional new or refurbished computers for the GirlsInc. media lab.

Developing and implementing free or discounted staff developmenttraining, hiring an instructional designer

Increasing Project GEMs budget or ensuring in-kind donations.

Conclusion of the Needs Assessment

The conclusion of the needs assessment is that there is a true need for thepurchase of 5 desktop computers. According to Amanda Tolbert, JuniorLeague of Fort Smith Financial Vice President, there are 4 othercomponents of the Girls Education and Mentoring program. The girls will beplaced into age appropriate groups and will have 20-minute increments ineach GEM station to allow time for each girl to experience all of GEMs

components. The purpose of the technology component is to hold a small

group project to reach the girls as an individual and a small collectivegroup. The girls will be placed into 5 groups of 12 girls per group. There is aneed for 5 additional computers to be purchased by the Project GEMbudget, received as an in-kind donation, or in-kind donations by Project. Inaddition, the GEM committee will need to request 7 additional technology-trained volunteers from the Junior League of Fort Smith. The Girls, Inc.media lab has enough room for at least 12 computers and currently has thedesks to accompany the computers. There is a critical need for websites,which will consist of free websites that are created for the empowerment ofgirls in technology-related careers such as Engineer Girl,GEMS Girls,GirlsGo Tech, andGirls Tech. In addition of the needs assessment, developing

and implementing free or discounted staff development training, hiring aninstructional designer, and increasing Project GEMs budget or ensuring in-kind donations.

Action Plan

The action plan of Project GEM was created to determine and identify the

causes, and to generate a variety of solutions. It identifies the needs of the
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plan of Project GEM and creates an action plan to close the gap of the

following areas: hardware, software, staff developments, facilities, and

financial planning. It contains a copy of the Project GEM budget and includes

a 3-year timeline for the implementation of the plan. To begin the action

plan, we must first identify the gap where Project GEM is and where they

need to be.

To focus on the first gap of where Project GEM is, we need to acknowledge

there are more girls enrolled in the Project GEM program than the quantity

of desktop computers in the media lab. There are not enough desktop

computers to accommodate the girls, currently there are 5 computers in the

media lab and there are 12 girls in each GEM component. Where ProjectGEM needs to be is to purchase 7 additional desktop computers for the Girls

Inc. media lab. Meeting the purchase of additional 7 desktop computers will

help Project GEM close the first gap.

Plan A is to purchase brand new computers or request an in-kind donation

from Best Buy for the purpose of receiving 7 new desktop computers.

If plan A does not work, Plan B is to purchase 7 refurbished desktop

computers through Dell Corporation.

The second gap of where Project GEM is, we need to acknowledge the staff

and volunteers need additional training in operating and troubleshooting

Windows Vista, Microsoft Office Suite 2007, and web based technologies

such as websites and web 2.0 tools. In addition, Project GEM needs to hire

an instructional designer to find or create web based simulated websites for

Project GEM, and hire a computer help desk specialist. According the survey

I completed during the technology evaluation, the staff and volunteers feel

they are not prepared to know how to troubleshoot and fully operate the

prescribed technologies for Project GEM. The staff and volunteers noted they

would like additional training and would like to receive certification as they

currently receive upon completing the required Girls Inc. technology

training. Where Project GEM needs to be is to create free additional

technology training for the staff and volunteers of Project GEM or hire an

instructional designer to find or create web based simulated websites for

Project GEM, and 1 computer desk help specialist to assist the staff and


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volunteers in assisting the girls with any troubleshooting. Meeting the

inclusion of additional training for the staff and volunteers, hiring an

instructional designer and a computer desk help specialist will help Project

GEM close the second gap.

Plan A is if there is enough money in the budget, hire an instructional

designer to create 1-2 web based simulation websites that will encourage

Girl Inc. members to explore non-traditional technology careers for women.

Allow the staff and volunteers to acquire technology training through

enrolling in technology related classes at the University of Arkansas-Fort

Smith, Arkansas, Carl Albert State College, Poteau, Oklahoma, or Arkansas

Tech University-Ozark, Arkansas.

Plan B is to conduct free training for the staff and volunteers of Girls Inc.

and Project GEM at the Adult Education Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas or

the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Lifelong Institute. This training would

include troubleshooting and computer help desk specialization, it would not

include hiring neither a computer help desk specialist nor an instructional

designer. Another potential solution to increasing technology expertise was

to obtain new volunteers who were previously trained in technology. The

Junior League of Fort Smith shall provide 12 new previously trained

technology volunteers at each Project GEM event per month.

The websites Engineer Girl and Engineer your life as well as web 2.0 tools

that would be used in the Project GEM curriculum will be included in place of

hiring an instructional designer. The Girls Inc. of Fort Smith, Arkansas has

agreed to continue to use their current computer technician to attend and

troubleshoot any problems with the computers or current software. The last

potential solution was to hire an instructional designer. However, financial

analysis determined there is not enough money to hire and maintain an

instructional designer to create and design websites for the Project GEMprogram at this time.

The third and final gap of where Project GEM is the technology budget,

currently Project GEM has an estimated budget of $2,000.00. Where Project

GEM needs to be is to have an established estimated budget that is at least

$3,500.00. Plan A is to gain in-kind donations of technology projects in order


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to hire an instructional designer and a computer help specialist. Plan B is to

receive in-kind donations from local businesses, Junior League members,

and local donors. Meeting the estimated budget of $3,500.00 will help

Project GEM close the final gap.

The critical needs are purchasing 5 additional new or refurbished computers

for the Girls Inc. media lab. Developing and implementing free or discounted

staff development training, hiring an instructional designer, and increasing

Project GEMs budget or ensuring in-kind donations.

The software gap has been closed and is noted as the following: The GirlsInc. does not need additional software at this time. Project GEM determined

during the needs assessment that Girls Inc. has over 300 age and grade

level appropriate educational software packages that are current and remain

in use by the girls at Girls Inc. Thus, additional software is not needed at this

time.

The facilities gap has been closed and noted as the following: The committee

found that facilities are currently adequate to meet the needs of ProjectGem. The Girls Inc. facilities shall house all nine of the Project GEM activities

on the third Tuesday of each month from December 2010-August 2011.

Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. was assigned the task of ensuring the facilities

of the Girls Inc. are open to the Project GEM every third Tuesday of each

month from December 2010-December 2013.

The following basic spreadsheet includes information that was gathered from

the Project GEM committee, Girls Inc. executive office, and Ms. AmandaTolbert, the Junior League of Fort Smiths financial vice president. SaraHarris, Girls Inc. was assigned the task of completing a budget, a proposedbudget, and purchasing the hardware equipment for Project GEM.


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The Project GEM Budget

Year2011

Items to bepurchased

BudgetedExpense

ProjectedCost

Purchase desktop computers- 5 $$2600.00**

Purchase scanner 1

$ $200.00

Purchase laser printer1

Pay for 2011 staff and volunteer technologytraining books

(implementin 2012)

$

$400.00

$500.00


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Year2012

Pay for 2012 staffand volunteertechnology trainingbooks $

- $500.00Staff and volunteercertification exams

$- $400.00

Year2013

Pay for 2013 staffand volunteer

technology trainingbooks $

- $500.00Staff and volunteer2013 certificationexams

$- $400.00

Total 3 year plan cost **$ 5,500.00


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Timeline:

Year 1:Changes agreed upon during the strategic planning are implemented.

Purchase hardware: 5 Desktop computers, 1 printer and 1 scanner.(1stquarter) Project GEM Committee Chair

Ensure in-kind donations. Project GEM Committee Chair requests from local

businesses and donors are received to GEMs budget. Project GEM Committee

Chair Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly communication and committee

reports. (Monthly): Project GEM Committee Chair

Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly community impact

spreadsheet . (Monthly) : Project GEM Committee Chair

Observe hardware to ensure it is working properly. ( Monthly) Girls Inc Executive

Assistant

Staff and volunteers are trained in the basic level of the Windows Vista operating

system. (1st quarter) Girls Inc Executive Director

Quarterly Meeting (1st quarter)

Staff and volunteers is trained in the basic level of the Microsoft Office Suite 2007

(2nd quarter) Girls Inc Executive Director

Staff and volunteers attend and complete basic online certification for Windows Vista

operating system and Microsoft Office Suite 2007: Microsoft Word. (2nd quarter)

Girls Inc Executive Director

Year 2:

**Price is forrefurbished items without lookingat possible discounts.


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Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly communication and committee

reports. (Monthly) GEM Co-Chairperson

Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly community impactspreadsheet. (Monthly) GEM Co-Chairperson

Observe hardware to ensure it is working properly. (Monthly)Martha Echols

Quarterly Meeting (1st quarter) GEM Co-Chairperson

Staff and volunteers is trained in web based technologiesWeb 2.0 tools (1st

quarter) Girls Inc Executive Director

Staff and volunteers attend and complete online certification for Windows Vista


If possible upgrade hardware if budget allows (4th quarter) Girls, Inc. Executive

assistant

If possible upgrade some of the external software if upgrades are necessary(4th

quarter) Executive assistant

Staff and volunteers is trained in the immediate level of the Microsoft Office Suite

2007: Microsoft Word (2nd quarter) Girls Inc executive director

Conduct Interviews for Project GEM (3rd quarter) GEM Chairperson

Evaluate progress of Project GEM (4th quarter) GEM Co-Chairperson

Yearly Progress Report (4th quarter) GEM Co-Chairperson Yearly Budget Report (4th

quarter) JLFS Financial Vice President

Evaluate progress of plan (4th quarter) Project GEM committee members

Year 3: Continue with the plans in motion (all quarters) GEM Co-Chairperson

Evaluate the effectiveness of the plans that are in place by determining the growth of

the number of Girls Inc. members participating in GEM (4th quarter) GEM Co-

Chairperson

If everyone is happy with the progress, continue on, if not, start the strategic planning

process again. (4th quarter) Project GEM committee members

Evaluation Plan

The main components of the action plan that need to be evaluated are the:

Staff and Volunteer Training: The Junior League of Fort Smithvolunteers, Project Girls Education and Mentoring (GEM) volunteers,

Girls Inc. Staff and volunteers. The staff and volunteer training should

receive an evaluation every six months during the Project GEM

program to ensure that each volunteer and staff member is properly

trained in order to continue serving the needs of the technology aspect

within the Project Girls Education and Mentoring program. This


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evaluation would include a basic certification exam of technology such

as the Microsoft Office 2007 Suite, Windows Vista operating system,

and web based technologies such as Engineer Girl, GEM Girls, Girls Go

Tech, and Girls Tech.

Hardware upgrades: The hardware should receive a monthly

observation to ensure the equipment is operating correctly or it is

ready to receive necessary upgrades. Sara Harris, Girls Inc. executive

assistant will continue to conduct the monthly observations to ensure

the hardware and devices are operating properly. She will use the Girls

Inc. technology observation checklist to continue observing the

hardware, devices, and software. Each list is blank to allow Ms. Harris

to include updated information and she will place them into the Girls

Inc. database. Ms. Harris will send a copy of this list to Monica

McKinney, Girls Inc. executive director and Karen Davis, Project GEM

committee chair.

Technology Budget: The technology budget of Project Girls

Education and Mentoring should receive a yearly evaluation to ensure

the funds are spent correctly. It should also include an updated budget

to reflect the current income, debits, and receipts and vouchers the

committee chair or committee members have used. The evaluation

shall serve as a purpose to determine if additional funding is needed toincrease or decrease the Project Girls Education and Mentoring future

budget.

The two methods that will be used to determine if the plan is on track is the:Online Interviews/Surveys (using Survey Monkey)

Observation

The first evaluation method is the survey; the evaluation of the staff and

volunteer training serves to ensure the training of the program meets theneeds of Project GEM. Each staff and volunteer needs to learn MicrosoftOffice 2007 and the Windows Vista operating system. The strength islearning of the training is adequate, allows the staff and volunteers to gainthe knowledge they need to pass their certification exams via online usingtheNational Computer Science website.
http://www.ncsacademy.com/certification/officeword2007.cfmhttp://www.ncsacademy.com/certification/officeword2007.cfmhttp://www.ncsacademy.com/certification/officeword2007.cfm


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This evaluation will also serve a purpose to locate the weaknesses in thestaff and volunteer training to ensure the gaps are closed within the

weaknesses, for example, if there is a staff member or a volunteer who isstruggling with lesson in Microsoft Word, this evaluation would see that thisperson receives the extra help they need through a joint collaboration effortof the Junior League of Fort Smith and the Fort Smith Adult EducationCenter. Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. executive director will lead this aspect ofthe project to ensure each staff member and each volunteer are properlytrained. The staff member or volunteer would receive free additional hoursof help during the business hours of the Fort Smith, Arkansas AdultEducation Center. The opportunities component within the evaluation of thestaff and volunteer training would serve to ensure each component or lesson

within the staff and volunteer training is organized, and there are presentand future opportunities that allow this program to excel. For example, anopportunity for the staff and volunteers of Project GEM is completecollaboration with the University of Arkansas- Fort Smiths testing center topursue additional Information Technology Certification. This will allow staffmembers and volunteers to complete free or a discounted rate of testing forbasic, intermediate, and advance certifications in Windows Vista andMicrosoft Office 2007. The potential threats would allow Project GEM toidentify any potential threats that may hinder the growth of the staff andvolunteer training program. For example, if Girls Inc. formed collaborationwith Northwest Arkansas Community Colleges Instructional technology

certification program, the existing collaboration may cease with the AdultEducation Center of Fort Smith, Project GEM will need to ensure all potentialthreats are ceased or to a minimum. Marie Thomas, the Project GEMresearch chair will coordinate these activities for evaluation and will conductthe evaluation.

The second method is the observation; it will serve to analyze potentialproblems within the technology budget, to predict failures within thehardware upgrades and to ensure if they can be prevented in the future.

This method will serve to prevent any shortcomings or any potential

problems that may arise with the hard ware upgrades or equipment. Forexamine, if the hardware is not receiving any maintenance, it will notoperate correctly, Project GEM needs to ensure the equipment is maintainedproperly. The technology budget needs to be carefully watched in order tonot encourage over the limit spending or items that are not needed forProject GEMs technology component. Sara Harris, Girls Inc, executiveassistant will coordinate these activities for the evaluation of the hardwareupgrades; Karen Davis, Project GEM chair will approve and sign the


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vouchers; Amanda Tolbert, Junior League of Fort Smith financial vicepresident will complete a yearly evaluation to ensure Project GEMs financial

needs are met.The instruments, documents, or items that are necessary to complete theevaluation are the interviews will be conducted usingsurvey monkey toensure the staff and volunteers are learning and to receive feedback on theteaching and learning methods and how this aspect may be conductedbetter. To complete the evaluation for the hardware upgrades and thetechnology budget, observation is vital to ensure the hardware upgrades areworking properly. Girls Inc. will update their current technology inventorychecklists and will continue to observe, conduct an intensive inventory checkof the current equipment in the media lab and office. It is important to keep

an accurate inventory of what hardware equipment needs, maintenance, oran upgrade to ensure Project GEMs equipment is running smoothly. Toensure the maintenance of the budget, Project GEM shall use the JuniorLeague of Fort Smiths accountant, the money will remain within the Junior

League of Fort Smith and vouchers will be distributed among the committeemembers who authorized to make necessary purchases for Project GEM.Monthly communication and committee reports ( please view appendix A)will be conducted by the Project Committee to continue to document theprogress of the committee, the findings, and the need for review of eachcomponent within Project GEM. These reports will be completed by theProject GEM chair and the reports will be emailed, mailed, or given to the

Junior League of Fort Smiths community vice president and the communityresearch chair by the tenth of each month.

Included in these reports will be a committee/community impactspreadsheet( please view Appendix A) that will document the impact ProjectGEM has on the girls that will include the following:

Date of Activity

Activity Location

Activity Description

The number of citizens impacted through GEMs community volunteer

work

The number of girls who impacted through their participation in Project

GEM for the given month

The number of Junior League of Fort Smith volunteers who impacted

this program during the given month

Volunteer Hours (number of volunteers x number of hours committed)
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFZNDZQhttp://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFZNDZQhttp://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MFZNDZQ


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Overall impact/responses from JLFS members or Community Citizens

Pert Chart

View the Gantt chart here please.

The Project GEM Budget

Year2011
http://www.scribd.com/doc/115936132/Gantt-Charthttp://www.scribd.com/doc/115936132/Gantt-Charthttp://www.scribd.com/doc/115936132/Gantt-Chart


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Items to bepurchased

BudgetedExpense

ProjectedCost

Purchase desktop computers- 5 $$2600.00**

Purchase scanner 1

$ $200.00

Purchase laser printer

1

Pay for 2011 staff and volunteer technologytraining books

(implementin 2012)

$

$400.00

$500.00

Year2012

Pay for 2012 staffand volunteer

technology trainingbooks $

- $500.00Staff and volunteercertification exams

$- $400.00


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Year 1:Changes agreed upon during the strategic planning are implemented.

Purchase hardware: 5 Desktop computers, 1 printer and 1 scanner.(1st

quarter) GEM Research Chair Ensure in-kind donations from local businesses and donors are received to GEMs

budget. GEM Research Chair

Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly communication and committee

reports. (Monthly) : Project GEM Committee Chair


spreadsheet . (Monthly) : Project GEM Committee Chair

Year2013

Pay for 2013 staffand volunteertechnology trainingbooks $

- $500.00Staff and volunteer2013 certification

exams

$

- $400.00

Total 3 year plan cost **$ 5,500.00

**Price is forrefurbished items without lookingat possible discounts.


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Observe hardware to ensure it is working properly. ( Monthly) Girls Inc Executive

Assistant

Staff and volunteers are trained in the basic level of the Windows Vista operatingsystem. (1st quarter) Girls Inc Executive Director

Quarterly Meeting (1st quarter)

Staff and volunteers is trained in the basic level of the Microsoft Office Suite 2007

(2nd quarter) Girls Inc Executive Director

Staff and volunteers attend and complete basic online certification for Windows Vista


Girls Inc Executive Director

Year 2: Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly communication and committee

reports. (Monthly) GEM Committee Co-Chairperson


spreadsheet . (Monthly) GEM Committee Co-Chairperson

Observe hardware to ensure it is working properly. (Monthly)Martha Echols

Quarterly Meeting (1st quarter) GEM Committee Co-Chairperson

Staff and volunteers is trained in web based technologiesWeb 2.0 tools (1st

quarter) Girls Inc Executive Director

Staff and volunteers attend and complete online certification for Windows Vista


If possible upgrade hardware if budget allows (4th quarter) Girls Inc. Executive

assistant

If possible upgrade some of the external software if upgrades are necessary(4th

quarter) Girls Inc, Executive assistant

Staff and volunteers is trained in the immediate level of the Microsoft Office Suite

2007: Microsoft Word (2nd quarter) Girls Inc executive director

Conduct Interviews for Project GEM (3rd quarter) GEM Chairperson

Evaluate progress of Project GEM (4th quarter) GEM Committee Co-Chairperson

Yearly Progress Report (4th quarter) GEM Committee Co-Chairperson

Yearly Budget Report (4th quarter) JLFS Financial Vice President

Evaluate progress of plan (4th quarter) Project GEM committee members

Year 3: Continue with the plans in motion (all quarters) GEM Committee Co-Chairperson

Evaluate the effectiveness of the plans that are in place by determining the growth ofthe number of Girls Inc. members participating in GEM (4th quarter) GEMCommittee Co-Chairperson


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If everyone is happy with the progress, continue on, if not, start the strategic planningprocess again. (4th quarter) Project GEM committee members

Appendix A

I. Technology Vision

The Project GEM committee and Beashua Spearman, facilitator, workedtogether on creating a technology vision for Project GEM, here was theagenda from the technology vision-planning meeting. The outcome from thetechnology vision-planning meeting was creating a technology vision forProject GEM that would enable Project GEM to visualize and set anobtainable long-term goal.

Project Girls Education and Mentoring

Vision Planning Agenda

Tuesday September 28, 20105:30 p.m.

Fort Smith Public Library Main BranchBoard Room #218

Facilitator Beashua Spearman1.Call to order

2.Welcome

3.Introductions

4.Explanation of the Vision Planning Process

5.Brainstorm Activity

6.Thank You


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7.Announcements

8.Remarks

9.Adjournment

Appendix A: Technology Vision

Project Girls Education and MentoringMeeting Outline

1.Call to order 5:30 p.m.

Good afternoon women, Thank you for your attendance and yourattention we shall begin the vision-planning meeting now.

2.Welcome 5:32 p.m.

I would like to welcome you all to the Project Girls Education andMentoring vision-planning meeting. Thank you for your time, I appreciatethe time you are taking form your busy schedules. I am very excited andgrateful you all are here and I look forward to hear great ideas from eachof you during our brainstorming activity!

3.Introductions 5:33 p.m.-5:44p.m.

I would like to begin our introduction by introducing myself. After I haveintroduced myself, I would like to request that each person introduce

herself and tell us why you are excited about this project. To begin, myname is Beashua Spearman and I am a graduate student at theUniversity of Arkansas main campus. My major is Educational Technology,for those of you who may not understand educational technology, it is thestudy of integrating, facilitating, learning, and improving the performanceof technology within institutions but not limited to business, education,non-profit, and military. This semester I am currently enrolled in


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Strategic Planning and IDT and I am learning how to create a strategicplan. I am grateful that you all have allowed me to help you create a

strategic plan. With that, let us begin with our chairperson, Mrs. SusanPruitt.Once the introductions are complete, I will say, If you need a bathroombreak please do so now.

4.Explanation of the Vision Planning Process 5:47 p.m.

To begin a vision statement, the vision focuses on what we want to becomeour hope for where we want to go, not only the details of what we will completewithin the year 2013. It should also indicate in what significant ways we would bedifferent from what we are today. We want to remain positive, uplifting, and

supportive of each other during this process because this will reflect ourvision statement.Does anyone have any questions before we begin the brainstorm activity?

5. Brainstorm Activity 5:48 p.m.-6:20 p.m.

Materials Needed: (1) Poster board & Easel (To place the post it notes on)

(8) Package of large Postit notes

(8) Legal pads

(1) package of pencils sharpened

Create a First Draft Vision Statement in theHow to Create a Vision (orCompelling Goal) Statementarticle within the Building Capacity for

Change Sourcebook.

1. Lets begin our vision planning brainstorm activity

What we hope to accomplish today is upon completing this

activity, is to create a technology vision statement that envisionsthe long-term goals of Project GEM.

Hold a conversation that focuses on the question: Who is the customer for the vision? In other words, who is going to

use the vision?
http://www.beyondresistance.com/pdf_files/5x3_5x8.pdfhttp://www.beyondresistance.com/pdf_files/5x3_5x8.pdfhttp://www.beyondresistance.com/pdf_files/5x3_5x8.pdfhttp://www.beyondresistance.com/pdf_files/5x3_5x8.pdfhttp://www.beyondresistance.com/pdf_files/5x3_5x8.pdf


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How will it be used? Whatever you do, do not create a vision just

because everyone else is. There must be a compelling reason for this

activity or it will simply be a waste of time.

A vision statementis often a one- or two-page word picture of what you

want to create. It is a story written in the present tense as if that envisionedreality were already occurring. There is no set formula for a vision

statement. You use your heart and gut as a guide. Does it inspire you? Will itfocus your attention?

A. I would like to ask everyone to please sit quietly and relax.

1.For the next couple of minutes just sit quietly.

2. Do not write anything, just relax. Imagine the future three to fiveyears from now.

3. Imagine your organization has become everything youve hoped for.4.Allow an imageto come to your mindAn image of what Project GEM

has become within three years. What does this ideal picture look like?5. Explore the image of what Project GEM has become within three years

. . . Who is in it? . . . What is going on in the scene?6. What makes it so ideal? . . . What are people saying? . . . What are

they doing? . . .7. Please dont talk during this exercise.

2. Allow time for writing.1.Please sit quietly again and close your eyes. . . . Imagine that a

reporter from The Times Recordnewspaper is going to do a story onProject GEMs impact upon Girls Inc. The reporters focus is on why

Project GEM has a strong impact upon the girls at Girls Inc. Whatwould you show the reporter as examples of things that make youparticularly proud? . . . Be specific in your thinking and explore thisimage in some detail. . . . Perhaps the reporter is asking youquestions.

2. How would you respond? . . .

3. Allow this image to fade.4. Please open your eyes.5.Take a couple of minutes to jot down the images that came to mind

during this last visualization exercise.

3. Pick a publication of the Times Record newspaper that has

meaning for your organization. The groups are an uneven groupso pair as 2 and 3 per group.


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6.The pairs talk about what they envisioned.

1)Group A will talk for 10 to 15 minutes, while Group B finds outeverything they can about what A envisioned.

2)Switch roles.3) It is important to keep the attention on the speaker. When Group A is

talking, Group B should be in listening mode asking questions,clarifying, etc. B should not be giving his/her thoughts during thisround.

4)When you switch, Group A should follow the same guidelines.5)Give each pair the large Post It notes.6)Ask them to pick ten items to put forward in the whole group. They

should print their responses in large block letters; otherwise, it may bedifficult for others to read.7.In full group, ask for one post it note from one pair. Post it on

the flip chart. Ask for one post it notes from another group.

Post it on the flip chart. Continue this process until all the cards

are posted. Begin grouping the cards as you post them.8.Prior to the previous step, place one of the post-it notes on the

flip chart when you are ready to post it.

4. Discussion: Determine Your Values

1) In order to be successful, what values do we need to follow?

2)What values are implied in our mission and vision statements?3)Which of these values are absolutely critical?4)Limit this list to a few items (five to seven).5)What would it look like if we were living by those values?6)What would it take for us to live by those values?

If your value statements can be transferred to another organization, then

the work is not done. This is not a one-size-fits-all exercise. Also, be careful

to not just list a bunch of tired platitudes. Think about the values that it will

take to make this vision a reality.

5. Identify the unsolvable issues.1)For example, you will never solve the issue of keeping quality high and

costs low.


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2)This is a dilemma that will need to be managed, not a problem thatcan be solved and forgotten.

3)One way to identify the dilemmas is to ask: What feels like it cannotbe resolved today?

6. Thank You 6:20 p.m.

I would like to Thank you all for attending the Project GEM vision-planning meeting and allowing it to be successful!

7. Announcements 6:21 p.m.

Ms. Susan Pruitt, do you have any announcements?

8. Remarks 6:25 p.m.

Does anyone have any remarks?

9. Adjournment 6:30 p.m.

Thank you all again, for attending the vision planning process meeting, Iappreciate your input, your comments, and suggestions.

This meeting is adjourned!


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Technology Evaluation ChecklistDesktop Computers Quantity UPC Code # Specifications

Dell Inspiron 530 9 N /A Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E7400 (3MB L2, 2.80GHz, 1066 FSB)

Modem- Yes, qty- 1 Memory 6 GB DDR2 SDRAM 800MHz (4 DIMMs)Keyboard, monitor, mouse, Speakers[12 Pairs] Hard Disk Drive 750 GB SATA II Hard Drive (7200RPM)

Qty (12- {1} per computer) 10/100 Base-T Ethernet

DVD Burner/ CD-ROM Qty -12, {1} per computer. Modem V.92/56K PCI Data Fax Modem

16X DVD +/- RW wi th dual layer write capability

19 in 1 Media Card Reader, Compact Flash I/II, IBM Micro Drive, Smart Media

7.1 channel surround High Definition Audio

Intel G33/G31 Express Chip Set

8 USB 2.0 ports, 4 in front and 4 in rear

1 VGA Video Monitor Port

Operating System Genuine Windows 64-Bit Vista Professional Premium

Service pack 2

Multi Media Card, SD Memory Card

Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro/Duo/Pro Duo, xD,

Mini SD, Reduced Size Multi Media Card

Notebook Computers Quantity UPC Code # Specifications

Dell Studio 1535 1 N/A Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E7400 (3MB L2, 2.80GHz, 1066 FSB)

Modem-Yes; qty(1) Memory 6 GB DDR2 SDRAM 800MHz (4 DIMMs)

Keyboard, monitor, speakers, mouse- all included Hard Disk Drive 750 GB SATA II Hard Drive (7200RPM)

DVD Burner/ CD-ROM Qty - {1} 10/100 Base-T Ethernet

Modem V.92/56K PCI Data Fax Modem

16X DVD +/- RW wi th dual layer write capability


Multi Media Card, SD Memory Card, Memory Stick

Memory Stick Pro/Duo/Pro Duo, xD, Mini SD

Reduced Size Multi Media Card



8 USB 2.0 ports, 4 in front and 4 i n rear



Service pack 2

Printers Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

Lexmark X5650 All in 1 Printer 3 N/A Printer Product Specifications:

Operating Systems Supported:Windows 2000 or l ater; Mac 10.3.9 or later

Printer Input Capacity: 100 pages

Media Types Supported: Plain and heavyweight matte paper, cardstock, envelopes,

Transparencies, banner,Hagaki card, iron-on transfers, photo paperInk Compatibility: Black 36, 36A, 36XL, 36XLA;Color 37, 37A, 37XL, 37XLA; Photo 31

Copier Product Specifications:

Copy Speed, Black:17 ppm

Copy Speed, Color: 11 ppm

Copy Resolution, Black: Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi

Copy Resolution, Color: Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi

Maximum Number of Copi es: 99

Paper Size Supported: Up to 8-1/2" x 17"

Copy Reduction/Enlargement Settings: 25% - 400%

Scanner Product Specifications:

Scanner Type: 48-bit color flatbed

Fax Products Specifications:

Color Fax: Yes

Transmission Speed: 33.6Kbps

Auto Redial: Yes

Speed Dial Numbers: 99

PC Interface: USB

Ethernet: No

Additional Product Specifications:

Lexmark ProductivityStudio software makes it simple to crop, rotate, and edit photos

Memory Cards Supported: Compact Flash I / II,MS, MS PRO,SD,MMC,Micro drive,

Direct photo printing print straight from memory cards, USB drives and with PictBridg

Standard Ports: USB 2.0

Power Requirements: Standard AC adapter

Measures approx. 8.1"H x 18.3"W x 11.6"Deep

Weighs approx. 16.6 lbs.


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Desktop Computers Quantity UPC Code # Specifications

Dell Inspiron 530 9 N /A Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E7400 (3MB L2, 2.80GHz, 1066 FSB)

Modem- Yes, qty- 1 Memory 6 GB DDR2 SDRAM 800MHz (4 DIMMs)

Keyboard, monitor, mouse, Speakers[12 Pairs] Hard Disk Drive 750 GB SATA II Hard Drive (7200RPM)

Qty (12- {1} per computer) 10/100 Base-T Ethernet

DVD Burner/ CD-ROM Qty -12, {1} per computer. Modem V.92/56K PCI Data Fax Modem

16X DVD +/- RW with dual layer write capability







Service pack 2

Multi Media Card, SD Memory Card

Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro/Duo/Pro Duo, xD,

Mini SD, Reduced Size Multi Media Card

Notebook Computers Quantity UPC Code # Specifications

Dell Studio 1535 1 N/A Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E7400 (3MB L2, 2.80GHz, 1066 FSB)

Modem-Yes; qty(1) Memory 6 GB DDR2 SDRAM 800MHz (4 DIMMs)

Keyboard, monitor, speakers, mouse- all included Hard Disk Drive 750 GB SATA II Hard Drive (7200RPM)DVD Burner/ CD-ROM Qty - {1} 10/100 Base-T Ethernet

Modem V.92/56K PCI Data Fax Modem

16X DVD +/- RW with dual layer write capability


Multi Media Card, SD Memory Card, Memory Stick

Memory Stick Pro/Duo/Pro Duo, xD, Mini SD

Reduced Size Multi Media Card






Service pack 2

Printers Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

Lexmark X5650 All in 1 Printer 3 N/A Printer Product Specifications:Operating Systems Supported:Windows 2000 or later; Mac 10.3.9 or later

Printer Input Capacity: 100 pages

Media Types Supported: Plain and heavyweight matte paper, cardstock, envelopes,

Transparencies, banner,Hagaki card, iron-on transfers, photo paper

Ink Compatibility: Black 36, 36A, 36XL, 36XLA;Color 37, 37A, 37XL, 37XLA; Photo 31

Copier Product Specifications:

Copy Speed, Black:17 ppm

Copy Speed, Color: 11 ppm

Copy Resolution, Black: Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi

Copy Resolution, Color: Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi

Maximum Number of Copies: 99

Paper Size Supported: Up to 8-1/2" x 17"

Copy Reduction/Enlargement Settings: 25% - 400%

Scanner Product Specifications:

Scanner Type: 48-bit color flatbed

Fax Products Specifications:

Color Fax: Yes

Transmission Speed: 33.6KbpsAuto Redial: Yes

Speed Dial Numbers: 99

PC Interface: USB

Ethernet: No

Additional Product Specifications:

Lexmark Productivity

Studio software makes it simple to crop, rotate, and edit photos

Memory Cards Supported: Compact Flash I / II,MS, MS PRO,SD,MMC,Micro drive,

Direct photo printing print straight from memory cards, USB drives and with PictBridg

Standard Ports: USB 2.0

Power Requirements: Standard AC adapter

Measures approx. 8.1"H x 18.3"W x 11.6"Deep

Weighs approx. 16.6 lbs.


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Scanners Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

See the Lexmark X5650 All in 1 Printer scanne lSee above please

Copiers Quantity UPC Code# SpecificationsXerox Work Centre Black/White Copier 1 N/A up to 25 / 30 ppm

Maximum paper size: 11 x 17 in./A3

Two-sided output standard

75-sheet Duplex Automatic Document Feeder standard

Standard paper capacity: 1,100 sheets

Maximum paper capacity: 5,100 sheets

Finishing options add stacking, stapling, hole punching, and booklet making

Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi print resolution

Scan to email, scan to mailbox, or full network scanning (optional on Printer/Copier models)

Color network scanning, scan to email, and scan to mailbox are standard on Copier/Printer/S l

Security and accounting tools

XeroxExtensible Interface Platform(EIP) enabled

40 GB hard drive standard

Mac, Windows (including Vista), Unix, Linux, and Citrix compatible

Maximum duty cycle of up to 75,000 images per month

Minimum dimensions (WxDxH): 25.2 x 25.7 x 43.8 in. / 640 x 652 x 1113 mm

Power requirements: 110-127V, 50/60 Hz, 15A

PDAS Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

None 0 N/A No PDAS

MP3 Players Quantity UPC Code# SpecificationsNone 0 N/A No MP3 Players

Internal Software Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

Microsoft Office Suite 2007 Pr ofessional Edition 10 N/A N/A

Operating System Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

Windows Vista- Service pack 2 25 per compuN/A N/A

External Software Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

N/A 300 N/A N/A

Websites

Quantity UPC Code# Specifications

Josie True & the inventor: http://www.josietrue.com/ 1 N/A N/A

3-D Programming http://www.alice.org/

1 N/A

Computer Girl: http://www.computergirl.us/ 1 N/A

Engineer Girl: http://www.engineeryourlife.org/ 1 N/A

http://www.engineergirl.org/ 1 N/AGEMS Explore SMART 1 N/A

htt : w ww ems c ub o r index h tm N A


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Technology Needs Assessment

The methods for prioritizing needs are as follows:

Materials Needed: (1) Flip Chart & Easel

(1) Package of markers

(5) Package of large Postit notes

(1) package of ball point pens

(1) package of pencils sharpened

Attachment 1: Agenda

Project Girls Education and Mentoring

Needs Assessment Planning AgendaFriday November 5, 2010

5:30 p.m.Fort Smith Public Library Main Branch

Board Room #218Facilitator Beashua Spearman

10.Call to order-5:30 p.m

11.Welcome - 5:31p.m.

12.Explanation of the Needs Assessment Planning Process -5:32p.m.

13.Needs Assessment Planning Activity- 5:32 p.m.-6:22 p.m.

14.Thank You -6:22 p.m.

15.Announcements -6:23p.m.

16.Remarks-6:25


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17.Adjournment-6:30p.m.

Project Girls Education and MentoringNeeds Assessment Outline

5. Call to order- 5:30p.m.

Good afternoon ladies, Thank you for your attendance and your attention we shall beginthe needs assessment-planning meeting now.6. Welcome -5:31p.m.

I would like to welcome you all to the Project Girls Education and Mentoring needs

assessment-planning meeting. Thank you for your time, I appreciate the time you aretaking form your busy schedules. I know each of you are busy but I am elated and

appreciative that you all are here and as always, I look forward to hear the great ideas

from each of you during our needs assessment activity!7. Explanation of the Needs Assessment Process-5:32p.m.

Good evening ladies,

Today are we meeting to discuss a needs assessment and to prioritize the needs ofProject GEM. To briefly explain a needs assessment, according to Frank Beadle de Palomo

and Elisa Luna of the AED Center for Community-Based Health Strategies needs assessment

is a tool for long-term planning. A needs assessment is the process of obtaining andanalyzing information to determine the current status and service needs of a definedpopulation and/or geographic area.

Needs assessments can be useful for: Obtaining information about current conditions in a defined population including problemsor service needs and the resources and approaches being used to address them.

Determining met and unmet service needs among specific target populations and for theoverall service area or community.

8. The Needs Assessment Planning Activity-5:34p.m.Today we shall identify the needs of Project GEM.

Let us begin with a creative need assessment technique called the Nominal Group

technique. This technique was originally developed by Delbecq and VandeVen and has beenapplied to adult education program planning by Vedros. This technique is a structured

variation of small group discussion methods. The process prevents the domination ofdiscussion by a single person, encourages the more passive group members to participate,and results in a set of prioritized solutions or recommendations.

Let us begin!


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1. Divide the people present into small groups of 5 or 6 members, preferably seatedaround a table.

Note: The 5-committee members are attending the needs assessment meeting,there is no reason to divide the group into 5 or 6 members. The members willbe seated around the boardroom table in the Fort Smith public librarysboardroom.

2. State an open-ended question (What are the three main immediate needs ofGEM?)

3. Have each Person spend several minutes in silence individually brainstorming allthe possible ideas and jot these ideas down.

4. Have the groups, collect the ideas by sharing them round robin fashion (one

response per person each time), while all are recorded in key term, on a flipchart.No criticism is allowed, but clarification in response to questions is encouraged.

5. Have each person evaluate the ideas and individually and anonymously vote forthe best ones (for example, the, best idea gets Points, next best 4 Points, etc).

6. Share votes within the group and tabulate. A group report is prepared, showingthe ideas receiving the most points.

7. Allow time for brief group presentations on their solutions.


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Evaluation PlanThe reports are as follows:

Appendix A:

Project GEM Council/Committee Report Form

Please email or mail report to Council VP by the 10th of the month.

Committee chair name: Date:

Committee/Council:

Report: ______ Motion: ________ Requests: ________(State motions exactly as you wish it to be approved)

Report Summary:

Do you have General Meeting Announcements: Yes No

Do you need arrangements to have a table for the General Meeting?Yes No

Do you have technology concerns? Yes NoIf yes, please explain:

Do you have any budget concerns? Yes Noif yes, please explain:

Please recognize a committee member/ Junior League volunteer who hasexcelled beyond basic certification and training:


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Appendix A:

Project GEM COMMUNICATIONS REPORT FORM

Member Name: Date:

Committee/Council:

Please provide a written short summary article of your committees activities forlast month, or for the coming month. Also, provide meeting or outing dates thatcan be added to the JLFS Calendar of Events.Please remember this will appear in the Parapet, on the website, and may beused by PR.


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Project GEM Community Impact Spreadsheet

Appendix A:

Activity

Description

Girls

Impacted

Girls Impacted through GEM technology aspect

JLFS Members Impacted (Volunteers) Volunteer Hours

(number of

volunteers x

number of hourscommitted

Overall impact/responses from JLFS members or Community

Citizens

October GEM

event

_girls 9 volunteers 2 hours x 9

volunteers= 18

volunteer hours

November

GEM event

_ girls 7 volunteers 2 hour shifts x 7

volunteers= 14

volunteer hours

December

GEM event

January GEM

event

February

GEM event

March GEM

eventApril GEM

event

May GEM

event

2010-2011 JLFS COMMUNITY PROJECTSProject: Project GEM

revised project girls education and mentoring stragetic plan 2010

Documents