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 1418 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 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 threeyear 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 for girls 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 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 1

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 Microsoft Office 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 member is 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 a research survey conducted by the Arkansas Girls Inc. 80% of the girls are 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 the Arkansas 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 nontraditional 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 Statement in the How to Create a Vision (or Compelling Goal) Statement article 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, Marie Thomas, 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 nontraditional careers, 16-18 year olds who completed the GEM program and 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 3

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 nontraditional 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 determine which web-based, internet technologies will inspire and motivate girls to improve their academic grades, and encourage and inspire them to 4

learn how to use technology in order to encourage career exploration of nontraditional/ technology based careers. (Please view the technology evaluation checklists in the Appendix 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 if Girls 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 of observation 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 in addition 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. 3. What funding is currently provided for technology? 5

The current finding that is provided for the technology aspect of Project GEM 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?

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.

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 technology evaluation: 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 is current, 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

3. There may be no inventories 4. There may not be time for interviews due to the busy nature of the committee 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 9

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, the Josie 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 technology curriculum 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. 10

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, I need 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. 11

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-inOne Lexmark printer, 2 Laser printers. Needs Assessment The participants/stakeholders are: Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. Executive Director; Marie Thomas, GEM Research Chair & Girls Inc. board member; Gennifer Arbor, GEM Chair; Amanda Tolbert, Junior League of Fort Smith Financial 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 or refurbished computers, implementing staff and volunteer development technology training, and implementing an increase in the current GEM budget, receiving in-kind donations from local businesses and local donors. The perspectives of the participants are the needs for the Girls Education and Mentoring program. This includes web-based technology such as promoting and using websites such as Engineer Girl to teach girls about the field of engineering and what it entails, how to pursue this field, and what type of education the field of engineering involves. Another perspective is to create a library of web-based technology that is free to GEM and Girls Inc. that will allow the Girls to simulate the career of an engineer. For example, the website Engineer Your Life allows girls to become an Engineer for a few hours and learn about the career of engineering and women. The data that was gathered identifies the questions that would ascertain the needs mentioned below: These include: What type of training do the Girls Inc. staff and volunteers need? The data gathering methods used to address the each question above are: Survey and Interviews. The purpose of the need assessment for Project GEM is to identify the gaps we are trying to fill which are the needs for additional hardware in the Girls Inc. media lab, to conduct a prescribed staff and volunteer technology training, and to investigate if there is there a need to increase the budget of GEM. To determine if the Girls Inc. staff and their volunteers are accurately trained, I used the data gathering technique of surveying the staff and volunteers of Girls Inc. I used Survey monkey to create and maintain the survey, 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 12

them to complete it within 2-5 business days. Each staff member and volunteer was very helpful and quick to respond with his or her completed surveys. The Girls Inc. staff and volunteers are currently trained and are very technologically perceptive. According to Monica McKinney, the staff and volunteers undergo an additional 10 hours each month to complete on-line certification that meets or exceeds the Girls Inc. technology staff goals. The volunteers who are Girls Inc. parents and community volunteers receive 5 hours of training per month free of charge through collaboration with the Adult Education Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The Junior League of Fort Smith has collaboration through the Adult Education Center and the University of Arkansas- Fort Smith Life Long Institute, which allows their volunteers to receive free or a discounted rate of technology training. A. What Do the Project GEM and Junior League volunteers need training in current web-based technologies? The data gathering methods used to address the each question above are Survey and Interviews B. Is it necessary for Project GEM to add new computers to the media lab of Girls Inc? The data gathering methods used to address the each question above are: Observation and Interviews. The Junior League volunteers and members may need to be trained in webbased technology training due to the different age factors. According to the membership records of the Junior League of Fort Smith; 90% of the members of Junior League are age of 45 and younger, but the remaining 10% are members who are over 45 and may not have a vast amount of experience with technology. C. Is it necessary for Project GEM to add new software to the media lab of Girls Inc? The data gathering methods used to address the each question above are: Interviews and Observation, The Girls Inc. media lab needs 5 additional desktop computers. To determine if the Girls Inc. media lab needs 5 additional desktop computers, I used the data gathering technique of observation method and the interview method to determine if additional desktop computers need be purchased. Receiving or purchasing refurbished computers with Windows Vista will meet the need. They do not have to be brand new, Windows 7, or Microsoft Office 2010; in fact, they need refurbished computers with Windows Vista and Office 2007. The purpose of obtaining 5 additional computers is because the rotating stations of Project GEM consist of 12 girls each per station 13

D. It is not necessary to add more software to the computer lab because Girls Inc. has over 300 software titles that are age and grade appropriate. To determine if the Girls Inc. media lab needs additional software, I used the data gathering technique of observation. E. Do Project Girls Education and Mentoring participants need simulated web based technologies? The data gathering methods used to address the each question above are: Survey and Interviews. To determine the final need, I used the data gathering technique of interviews. I interviewed each Girls Inc. staff member and Project GEM committee member to determine if they need web-based simulated technologies. The web-based technologies that is currently used at Girls Inc. iswebsites The Project GEM committee stated it was crucial to include these types of web-based technologies such as web 2.0 tools and websites to allow the girls a sense of adventure, education, and career exploration. The people who are responsible for each of the identified data gathering methods are listed by number of the questions above and are 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 Fort Smith Financial Vice President D. Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. Executive Director, Rebecca Harris Girls Inc. 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 web 2.0 tools) Hiring an Instructional designer to create web-based simulated technologies for Project GEM. Hiring a computer help desk specialist for the purpose of GEM. Training of Girls Inc and GEM staff members and volunteers. 14

Prioritization list of Needs 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 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 the purchase of 5 desktop computers. According to Amanda Tolbert, Junior League of Fort Smith Financial Vice President, there are 4 other components of the Girls Education and Mentoring program. The girls will be placed into age appropriate groups and will have 20-minute increments in each 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 collective group. The girls will be placed into 5 groups of 12 girls per group. There is a need for 5 additional computers to be purchased by the Project GEM budget, received as an in-kind donation, or in-kind donations by Project. In addition, the GEM committee will need to request 7 additional technologytrained volunteers from the Junior League of Fort Smith. The Girls, Inc. media lab has enough room for at least 12 computers and currently has the desks to accompany the computers. There is a critical need for websites, which will consist of free websites that are created for the empowerment of girls in technology-related careers such as Engineer Girl, GEMS Girls, Girls Go Tech, and Girls Tech. In addition of the needs assessment, developing and implementing free or discounted staff development training, hiring an instructional designer, and increasing Project GEMs budget or ensuring inkind 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 15

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 Project GEM 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 16

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 GEM program 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 17

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 Girls Inc. 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 Project Gem. 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. Amanda Tolbert, the Junior League of Fort Smiths financial vice president. Sara Harris, Girls Inc. was assigned the task of completing a budget, a proposed budget, and purchasing the hardware equipment for Project GEM.

18

The Project GEM Budget

Year 2011 Items to be purchased Purchase desktop computers- 5 Purchase scanner 1 $ Budgeted Expense $ $2600.00** Projected Cost

$200.00

Purchase laser printer1 Pay for 2011 staff and volunteer technology training books

(implement in 2012)

$400.00

$500.00

19

Year 2012 Pay for 2012 staff and volunteer technology training books Staff and volunteer certification exams

$ $ -

$500.00 $400.00

Year 2013 Pay for 2013 staff and volunteer technology training books Staff and volunteer 2013 certification exams

$ $ -

$500.00

$400.00

$ 5,500.00 Total 3 year plan cost **

20

**Price is for refurbished items without looking at possible discounts.

Timeline:

Year 1: Changes agreed upon during the strategic planning are implemented. st Purchase hardware: 5 Desktop computers, 1 printer and 1 scanner.(1 quarter) 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: 21

Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly communication and committee reports. (Monthly) GEM Co-Chairperson Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly community impact spreadsheet . (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 operating system and Microsoft Office Suite 2007: Microsoft Word. (2nd quarter) 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 CoChairperson 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 Smith volunteers, 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 22

within the Project Girls Education and Mentoring program. This 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 to increase 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 the needs of Project GEM. Each staff and volunteer needs to learn Microsoft Office 2007 and the Windows Vista operating system. The strength is learning of the training is adequate, allows the staff and volunteers to gain the knowledge they need to pass their certification exams via online using the National Computer Science website. 23

This evaluation will also serve a purpose to locate the weaknesses in the staff and volunteer training to ensure the gaps are closed within the weaknesses, for example, if there is a staff member or a volunteer who is struggling with lesson in Microsoft Word, this evaluation would see that this person receives the extra help they need through a joint collaboration effort of the Junior League of Fort Smith and the Fort Smith Adult Education Center. Monica McKinney, Girls Inc. executive director will lead this aspect of the project to ensure each staff member and each volunteer are properly trained. The staff member or volunteer would receive free additional hours of help during the business hours of the Fort Smith, Arkansas Adult Education Center. The opportunities component within the evaluation of the staff and volunteer training would serve to ensure each component or lesson within the staff and volunteer training is organized, and there are present and future opportunities that allow this program to excel. For example, an opportunity for the staff and volunteers of Project GEM is complete collaboration with the University of Arkansas- Fort Smiths testing center to pursue additional Information Technology Certification. This will allow staff members and volunteers to complete free or a discounted rate of testing for basic, intermediate, and advance certifications in Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007. The potential threats would allow Project GEM to identify any potential threats that may hinder the growth of the staff and volunteer training program. For example, if Girls Inc. formed collaboration with Northwest Arkansas Community Colleges Instructional technology certification program, the existing collaboration may cease with the Adult Education Center of Fort Smith, Project GEM will need to ensure all potential threats are ceased or to a minimum. Marie Thomas, the Project GEM research chair will coordinate these activities for evaluation and will conduct the evaluation. The second method is the observation; it will serve to analyze potential problems within the technology budget, to predict failures within the hardware 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. For examine, if the hardware is not receiving any maintenance, it will not operate correctly, Project GEM needs to ensure the equipment is maintained properly. The technology budget needs to be carefully watched in order to not encourage over the limit spending or items that are not needed for Project GEMs technology component. Sara Harris, Girls Inc, executive assistant will coordinate these activities for the evaluation of the hardware upgrades; Karen Davis, Project GEM chair will approve and sign the 24

vouchers; Amanda Tolbert, Junior League of Fort Smith financial vice president will complete a yearly evaluation to ensure Project GEMs financial needs are met. The instruments, documents, or items that are necessary to complete the evaluation are the interviews will be conducted using survey monkey to ensure the staff and volunteers are learning and to receive feedback on the teaching and learning methods and how this aspect may be conducted better. To complete the evaluation for the hardware upgrades and the technology budget, observation is vital to ensure the hardware upgrades are working properly. Girls Inc. will update their current technology inventory checklists and will continue to observe, conduct an intensive inventory check of the current equipment in the media lab and office. It is important to keep an accurate inventory of what hardware equipment needs, maintenance, or an upgrade to ensure Project GEMs equipment is running smoothly. To ensure the maintenance of the budget, Project GEM shall use the Junior League of Fort Smiths accountant, the money will remain within the Junior League of Fort Smith and vouchers will be distributed among the committee members 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 the progress of the committee, the findings, and the need for review of each component within Project GEM. These reports will be completed by the Project GEM chair and the reports will be emailed, mailed, or given to the Junior League of Fort Smiths community vice president and the community research chair by the tenth of each month. Included in these reports will be a committee/community impact spreadsheet( please view Appendix A) that will document the impact Project GEM 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) 25

Overall impact/responses from JLFS members or Community Citizens The timeline to implement the evaluation methods are as follows:

The Project GEM Budget

Year 2011 Items to be purchased Purchase desktop computers- 5 Purchase scanner 1 $ Budgeted Expense $ $2600.00** Projected Cost

$200.00

Purchase laser printer1 Pay for 2011 staff and volunteer technology training books

(implement in 2012)

$400.00

$500.00

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Pay for 2012 staff and volunteer technology training books Staff and volunteer certification exams

Year 2012

$ $ -

$500.00 $400.00

Year 2013 Pay for 2013 staff and volunteer technology training books Staff and volunteer 2013 certification exams

$ $ -

$500.00

$400.00

$ 5,500.00
27

Total 3 year plan cost **

**Price is for refurbished items without looking at possible discounts.

Year 1: Changes agreed upon during the strategic planning are implemented. st Purchase hardware: 5 Desktop computers, 1 printer and 1 scanner.(1 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 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:

Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly communication and committee reports. (Monthly) GEM Committee Co-Chairperson Project GEM committees chair will complete monthly community impact 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

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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 operating system and Microsoft Office Suite 2007: Microsoft Word. (2nd quarter) 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 of the number of Girls Inc. members participating in GEM (4th quarter) GEM

Committee 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

Appendix A
I. Technology Vision The Project GEM committee and Beashua Spearman, facilitator, worked together on creating a technology vision for Project GEM, here was the agenda from the technology vision-planning meeting. The outcome from the technology vision-planning meeting was creating a technology vision for Project GEM that would enable Project GEM to visualize and set an obtainable long-term goal. Project Girls Education and Mentoring

Vision Planning Agenda 29

Tuesday September 28, 2010 5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library Main Branch Board Room #218 Facilitator Beashua Spearman 1. Call to order 2. Welcome 3. Introductions 4. Explanation of the Vision Planning Process 5. Brainstorm Activity 6. Thank You 7. Announcements 8. Remarks 9. Adjournment Appendix A: Technology Vision Project Girls Education and Mentoring Meeting Outline

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1. Call to order 5:30 p.m. Good afternoon women, Thank you for your attendance and your attention 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 and Mentoring vision-planning meeting. Thank you for your time, I appreciate the time you are taking form your busy schedules. I am very excited and grateful you all are here and I look forward to hear great ideas from each of 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 have introduced myself, I would like to request that each person introduce herself and tell us why you are excited about this project. To begin, my name is Beashua Spearman and I am a graduate student at the University of Arkansas main campus. My major is Educational Technology, for those of you who may not understand educational technology, it is the study of integrating, facilitating, learning, and improving the performance of technology within institutions but not limited to business, education, non-profit, and military. This semester I am currently enrolled in Strategic Planning and IDT and I am learning how to create a strategic plan. 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. Susan Pruitt. Once the introductions are complete, I will say, If you need a bathroom break 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 become our hope for where we want to go, not only the details of what we will complete within the year 2013. It should also indicate in what significant ways we would be different from what we are today. We want to remain positive, uplifting, and supportive of each other during this process because this will reflect our vision 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) 31

(8) Package of large Postit notes (8) Legal pads (1) package of pencils sharpened

Create a First Draft Vision Statement in the How to Create a Vision (or Compelling Goal) Statement article 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 envisions the 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? 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 statement is 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 envisioned reality 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 it focus 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 five years from now. 3. Imagine your organization has become everything youve hoped for. 4. Allow an image to 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?

32

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 Record newspaper is going to do a story on Project GEMs impact upon Girls Inc. The reporters focus is on why Project GEM has a strong impact upon the girls at Girls Inc. What would you show the reporter as examples of things that make you particularly proud? . . . Be specific in your thinking and explore this image in some detail. . . . Perhaps the reporter is asking you questions. 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 group so pair as 2 and 3 per group. 6. The pairs talk about what they envisioned. 1) Group A will talk for 10 to 15 minutes, while Group B finds out everything 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 this round. 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 be difficult 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.

33

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. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) Discussion: Determine Your Values In order to be successful, what values do we need to follow? What values are implied in our mission and vision statements? Which of these values are absolutely critical? Limit this list to a few items (five to seven). What would it look like if we were living by those values? 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. 2) This is a dilemma that will need to be managed, not a problem that can be solved and forgotten. 3) One way to identify the dilemmas is to ask: What feels like it cannot be resolved today?

6. Thank You 6:20 p.m. I would like to Thank you all for attending the Project GEM visionplanning 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. 34

Thank you all again, for attending the vision planning process meeting, I appreciate your input, your comments, and suggestions. This meeting is adjourned!

35

Technology Evaluation Checklist

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 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 with dual layer write capability 19 in 1 Media Card Reader, Compact Flash I/II, IBM Micro Drive, Smart Media Multi Media Card, SD Memory Card, Memory Stick Memory Stick Pro/Duo/Pro Duo, xD, Mini SD Reduced Size Multi Media Card 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

Printers Lexmark X5650 All in 1 Printer

Quantity

UPC Code# Specifications 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: 33.6Kbps Auto 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 PictBridge 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.

36

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 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 with dual layer write capability 19 in 1 Media Card Reader, Compact Flash I/II, IBM Micro Drive, Smart Media Multi Media Card, SD Memory Card, Memory Stick Memory Stick Pro/Duo/Pro Duo, xD, Mini SD Reduced Size Multi Media Card 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

Printers Lexmark X5650 All in 1 Printer

Quantity

UPC Code# Specifications 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: 33.6Kbps Auto 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 PictBridge 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.

37

Scanners Quantity UPC Code# Specifications See the Lexmark X5650 All in 1 Printer scannerSee above please type above please Copiers Quantity UPC Code# Specifications Xerox 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/Scanner models Security and accounting tools Xerox Extensible 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 None MP3 Players None Internal Software Microsoft Office Suite 2007 Professional Edition

Quantity

UPC Code# Specifications 0 N/A No PDAS UPC Code# Specifications 0 N/A No MP3 Players UPC Code# Specifications 10 N/A N/A

Quantity

Quantity

Operating System Windows Vista- Service pack 2

Quantity UPC Code# Specifications 25 per computer N/A N/A

External Software N/A

Quantity UPC Code# Specifications 300 N/A N/A

Quantity Websites Josie True & the inventor: http://www.josietrue.com/ 3-D Programming http://www.alice.org/ Computer Girl: http://www.computergirl.us/ Engineer Girl: http://www.engineeryourlife.org/ http://www.engineergirl.org/ GEMS Explore SMART

UPC Code# Specifications 1 N/A 1 1 1 1 1 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

38

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 Agenda Friday November 5, 2010 5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library Main Branch Board Room #218 Facilitator 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

39

17.Adjournment-6:30p.m. Project Girls Education and Mentoring Needs Assessment Outline

5. Call to order- 5:30p.m. Good afternoon ladies, Thank you for your attendance and your attention we shall begin the 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 are taking 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 of Project 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 and analyzing information to determine the current status and service needs of a defined population and/or geographic area. Needs assessments can be useful for: Obtaining information about current conditions in a defined population including problems or service needs and the resources and approaches being used to address them. Determining met and unmet service needs among specific target populations and for the overall 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 been applied to adult education program planning by Vedros. This technique is a structured variation of small group discussion methods. The process prevents the domination of discussion 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 seated around 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 will be seated around the boardroom table in the Fort Smith public librarys boardroom. 2. State an open-ended question (What are the three main immediate needs of GEM?) 3. Have each Person spend several minutes in silence individually brainstorming all the 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 for the 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, showing the ideas receiving the most points. 7. Allow time for brief group presentations on their solutions.

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Evaluation Plan
The 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? If yes, please explain: Do you have any budget concerns? if yes, please explain:

Yes

No

Yes

No

Please recognize a committee member/ Junior League volunteer who has excelled 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 for last month, or for the coming month. Also, provide meeting or outing dates that can be added to the JLFS Calendar of Events. Please remember this will appear in the Parapet, on the website, and may be used by PR.

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Project GEM Community Impact Spreadsheet

Appendix A:

2010-2011 JLFS COMMUNITY PROJECTS

Project: Project GEM
Activity Girls Description Impacted JLFS Members Impacted (Volunteers) Volunteer Hours Overall impact/responses from JLFS members or Community (number of Citizens volunteers x number of hours commit ed) 9 volunteers 2 hours x 9 volunteers= 18 volunteer hours 7 volunteers 2 hour shifts x 7 volunteers= 14 volunteer hours

Girls Impacted through GEM technology aspect October GEM _girls event November _ girls GEM event December GEM event January GEM event February GEM event March GEM event April GEM event May GEM event

44