HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 8.2 Homewrk Hub Program
CITY CLERK
File # D[5J[][2J-[!][Q]
AGENDA STATEMENT
CITY COUNCil MEETING DATE: December 4, 2007
SUBJECT:
Homework Hub Program Partnership with School District
Report by Paul McCreary, Parks and Community Services Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1.
2.
Proposed Program Plan
Budget Change Form
0z-.
Receive report, approve the proposed program plan and adopt the
budget change, or provide alternate direction
RECOMMENDATION:
FINANCIAL STATEMENT:
Estimated expenditures for the six-month pilot program are $23,809.
It is anticipated that $24,640 in revenue will be received, offsetting
the direct program costs and a portion of the program administration
costs.
DESCRIPTION: The City was approached by the Dublin Unified School District
Superintendent about creating a partnership to offer a homework assistance program at the elementary
school level. City Staff met with the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum to
develop a program plan. Attachment I is the proposed program plan detailing the program need,
outcomes, staffing and registration information.
Currently the City offers an After School Recreation program at each public elementary school in Dublin.
These programs are typically held in the multi-purpose room and on the playground. The program is held
from the time school gets out until 5 :30 p.m. and features activities such as games, sports and crafts.
There is also about 30-minutes each day of quiet time for participants to work on homework assignments
or participate in passive activities such as reading, drawing or doing puzzles. Average daily attendance at
each site is approximately 40. The proposed Homework Hub program would differ from After School
Recreation in that participants would be in a smaller group setting with a credentialed teacher providing
more individualized assistance and expertise with completing homework assignments.
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COPY TO: Dublin Unified School District Superintendent
Page 1 of3
ITEM NO. !i . 7
G:\CQUNCIL\Agcnda Statements\2007\12-4 Homework Hub Program.doc
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PROGRAM NEED
The School District has indicated there is a large demand for this type of community-based after school
program. Students are facing more demands to increase test scores and meet stricter graduation
requirements. The need for community-based homework programs has become well established through
research. A 2001 study demonstrated the importance of children having a designated place to go after
school where they can get help with their class work. This can provide scholastic support that might
otherwise be missing from the youngster's life. Parents are often not home to help their kids or don't
understand their children's homework.
An April 2000 Federal study found that children who are left alone when school ends have more
difficulties with their class work than those who participate in after school homework programs. It was
shown that students in these programs are more likely to succeed academically and be more self-
confident. Students that receive personalized assistance from people who have the time to explain
assignments and define vocabulary go home with more completed schoolwork, and often read more as a
result of participating in the homework program.
PROPOSED PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Homework Hub would be similar to the successful homework assistance program the City currently
offers as part of the Student Union Program at the middle schools. This fee-based pilot program would
start in mid-January 2008 at Dublin Elementary and Dougherty Elementary schools. Four sessions, five-
weeks each in length, would be held through June. Participants could attend two or four days per week,
with Monday and Wednesday, or Tuesday and Thursday options. Each day would include 90-minutes of
homework assistance, starting about 10-minutes after the bell.
Each campus would have classes for 15t through 3rd grade and 4th through 5th grade. Each class would be
supervised by a credentialed teacher and an aide. In addition to homework assistance, each week the
program would spend some time teaching participants about study skills that will help prepare them to
succeed at the next level in their education. For example the 4th and 5th grade class would be reviewing
study skills to prepare them for middle school.
ANTICIPATED PROGRAM OUTCOMES
As an outcome of participating in the program, it is anticipated that participants will:
. Complete homework by end of program each day
. Have more time at home for family activities and extracurricular activities
. Improve their STAR test scores (School District Dependent)
. Improve their study skills and ability to complete homework independently
. Have a positive attitude toward completing homework
. Enjoy being at school more because they are succeeding
The Principals at the pilot schools have indicated they would be able to confidentially provide the City
with STAR test score statistics to help measure the effectiveness of the program. The data would measure
the change in STAR test scores of participants compared to their peers who did not participate in the
program, as well as the school's average.
PARTNERSHIP WITH SCHOOL DISTRICT
The City would be responsible for general program administration including advertising, staffing and
registration. The School District would be responsible for providing space, selecting the study skills
curriculum and assisting with advertising and recruitment of staff. The Recreation Coordinator for
Playground Programs would be responsible for coordinating this program.
Page 2 of3
BUDGET CHANGE
Due to the timing of the development of this proposed partnership, funds were not included in the Fiscal
Year 2007-2008 budget. Therefore if the Council concurs with the proposed program a budget change
would be necessary to authorize the additional $23,809 in expenditures and realize the estimated $24,640
in revenue. The budget change would result in an estimated net gain to the City of approximately $800.
This gain would partially offset overhead costs related to program administration by the Recreation
Coordinator.
SUMMARY
Staff has met with the Principals at Dublin and Dougherty Elementary Schools regarding the feasibility of
the program. Based on those meetings it appears the program would be feasible, and well received by
families at the schools. Registration fees would average $7.00 per day, or $4.67 per hour. Staff
conducted a fee survey and found this fee to be affordable compared to the fees charged by providers of
similar services in the Tri- Valley.
The proposed program plan was presented on November 19, 2007 to the Parks and Community Services
Commission. The Commissioners were supportive of the program and commented that the plan was well
thought out. They also thought that having the Homework Hub on school campuses would be well
received as transportation to the program would not be a barrier to participation.
If the program is successful at the pilot schools, Staff anticipates expanding it to other campuses on a
space available basis in the future.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the City Council receive the report, approve
the proposed program plan and adopt the budget change, or provide alternate direction.
Page 3 of3
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Parks and Community Services Department
Proposed Program Plan
PROGRAM AREA:
PROGRAM NAME:
QUARTER:
Youth Development
Dublin Homework Hub
Winter/Spring 2008
NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Students are facing more demands to increase test scores and meet stricter graduation requirements. According
to the Dublin Unified School District website, the District has placed a focus on continuous improvement for all
students that will enable them to be successful in improving their standardized test scores and more importantly
to meet the new graduation requirements. Ultimately, the District's vision is that students will be successful when
they leave the District and in life as they become "Lifelong Learners". In order to accomplish this, the School
Board has established several initi~tives including...
. 90% of all Dublin students in grades 2-11 will pass the California Standards Tests in English, Math,
History, and Science
. All Dublin students will learn to take responsibility for their lives and set appropriate goals
. All Dublin students will possess the personal qualities, work habits and attitudes to be successful in
the world of work.
. The district and all schools will exceed California's API growth targets and NCLB AYP targets each year
. All 3rd graders will read at grade level at the end of 3'd grade.
According to research contained in a 2001 article in American Libraries, it is important for children to have a
designated place to go after school where they can get help with their class work. This can provide scholastic
support that might otherwise be missing from the youngster's life. Parents are often not home to help their kids
or don't understand their children's homework. The need for community-based after-school programs has
become well established through research. The most dangerous time of day for youth is the three hours following
school. During this period, kids are more susceptible to negative peer pressure and illegal activities. Studies
suggest that after school programs where kids can acquire useful experiences can create support networks that
promote healthy growth and development.
An April 2000 federal study, conducted by the U.s. Justice and Education departments, found that children who
are left alone when school ends have more difficulties with their class work than those who participate in after
school homework programs. It was shown that students in these programs are more likely to succeed
academically and be more self-confident.
Other research directly links improved study habits and grades to after-school homework assistance. The key
ingredient to better school performance, one study revealed, was that students receive personalized assistance
from people who have the time to explain assignments and define vocabulary. This helps participants go home
with more completed schoolwork and often read more as a result of participating in the homework program.
Math grades also improve.
Some of the best practices of successful after school programs include having a wide range of community
partners. The players can include the School Board, City Council, non-profit service organizations, institutions of
higher education, and businesses. Another best practice is securing funding from foundations and grants to
ensure students of all economic levels can take advantage of the services.
"J- .J(4-y; it:: g 'I.-X 13-1 q I fJ1 Yl,A.~
ATTACHMENT 1
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
0<14
THE DUBLIN HOMEWORK HUB
Making homework less of a chore!
Is it challenging to get your child's homework done after you come home from work? Are there too many
distractions at home that prevent your child from focusing on homework? Does your child need additional
assistance in a specific subject area? The Dublin Homework Hub will inspire a love for learning in your child. The
program is structured to build academic confidence and skill level in an individualized environment with a low
ratio of one staff person for every 7 participants. Two classrooms are available at each campus; one for 1st through
3rd grades and another for 4th through 5th grades. This allows the staff to provide individualized grade-specific
help in areas needing extra work such as math, spelling and reading. Each day will start with a healthy snack.
Each week will include a short exercise to help participants build study skills to help prepare for the next level in
their education. Other fun and educational resources will be available for participants who complete their
homework early.
PROGRAM DATES, TIMES AND LOCATIONS
SESSION DA VS & TIMES DATES
Session I: MON 2:15~3:45 / WED 3:00A:30 01/14/08 - 02/13/08 (No program January 210r 23)
TUE 2:15-3:45 / THU 3:00-4:30 01/15/08 - 02/14/08 (No program January 24)
Session II: MON 2:15-3:45 / WED 3:00-4:30 02/20/08 - 03/19/08
TUE 2:15-3:45 / THU 3:00-4:30 02/21/08 - 03/20/08
Session III: MON 2:15-3:45 / WED 3:00-4:30 03/31/08 - 04/30/08
TUE 2:15-3:45 / THU 3:00-4:30 04/01/08 - 05/01/08
Session IV: MON 2:15-3:45 / WED 3:00-4:30 05/05/08 - 06/05/08 (No program May 26)
TUE 2:15-3:45 / THU 3:00-4:30 05/06/08 - 06/06/08
PROGRAM REGISTRATION, WITH DRAWL AND REFUND PROCEDURES
Registration fees are $70 per session for Dublin residents and $81 for non-residents (average of $7.00 per day).
Registration will be coordinated by the City of Dublin and will be accepted online at www.DublinRecGuide.com.
or in person at the Parks & Community Services Department Office at the Dublin Public library (200 Civic Plaza).
. Registration for Sessions I & II begins December 10 for residents and December 17 for non-residents.
. Registration for Sessions III & IV begins March 3 for residents and March 10 for non-residents.
Refunds will be granted if a request is received four working days in advance of the first day of the session. A
$5.00 processing fee will be charged for refunds.
PARTICIPATION GOAL
Each classroom would have a minimum of 11 participants and a maximum of 15 participants, resulting in a 1:7
ratio or less. This would accommodate up to 30 students at each site each session.
PROGRAM STAFFING
Recruiting, hiring and supervision of employees will be the responsibility of the City of Dublin. Assistance will be
needed from the District in distributing recruitment materials to potential employment candidates.
Each classroom will have a Credentialed Teacher to provide assistance with homework. Each classroom will also
have a Senior Recreation Leader who is responsible for general program administration and providing assistance
with homework.
With two classrooms at each site, a total offour Credentialed Teachers and four Senior Recreation Leaders will be
needed. Volunteers could also be sought to help maintain an even lower ratio.
FACILITIES
3O;fLt
The School District will be responsible for providing two spaces at each school that have an environment that is
conducive to completing homework. This could include classrooms, the library, or a computer lab.
The City will first determine if existing teachers at the school have an interest'in working at the program so that
their classrooms could be used for the program. If the program is taught by teachers that do not work at that
school, then other spaces would need to be considered.
EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES
Each room needs to have one or more computers for participants to look up assignments, submit assignments
and conduct research as needed.
The City would be responsible for providing the other equipment and supplies needed for the program including
study skills curriculum, daily snacks and miscellaneous startup supplies such as pens, pencils, papers, etc.
PROMOTION AND ADVERTISING
It! 1,000 fliers distributed to students at Dublin and Dougherty Elementary Schools
It! Advertising in school newsletters
It! E-mail flyer to families using School/PFC mailing lists
It! E-mail flyer to families in After School Recreation
It! Advertising on the City's website
It! Press releases
o Banner at each school
ANTICIPATED PROGRAM OUCOMES
After participating in the program, participants will...
It! Complete homework by end of program each day
It! Obtain assistance from a credentialed teacher and an aide
It! Have more time at home for family activities and extracurricular activities
It! Improve their STAR test scores (School District Dependent)
It! Improve their study skills and ability to complete homework independently
It! Have a positive attitude toward completing homework
It! Enjoy being at school more because they are succeeding
REFERENCES
Mediavilla, C. (Dec 2001). Why Library Homework Centers Extend Society's Safety Net: Latching onto the Needs of
Latchkey Children Unlocks Community Goodwill. (Service). American Libraries, 32, 11. p.40( 3).
CITY OF DUBLIN
BUDGET CHANGE FORM
Jf~ 4
CHANGE FORM #
New Appropriations (City Council Approval Required):
Budget Transfers:
_ From Unappropriated Reserves
'iE"'''' "
;f);,Cd
BUDdIN,A'fi '<,
NIT
AMOlJNT ;,
From Budgeted Contingent Reserve (1080-799.000)
Within Same Department Activity
Between Departments (City Council Approval Required)
Other
',~G:REAsE:ilh:fQEi,,~C<t)lJNT AMOUNT
Name: General Fund - REVENUE -
Charges For Services ~ PLAYGROUNDS $ 24,460
_X_ From New Revenues - General Fund Program Fees
Account #: 001-565-013
Name: General Fund ~ Expenditure
Playgrounds - Salaries Part-Time Seasonal
Account #: 001-80450-701-002
Name: General Fund - Expenditure
Playgrounds - Workers Compensation
$ 20,140
Account #: 001-80450-702.006
Name: General Fund - Expenditure
Playgrounds - FICA! Medicare
$ 644
Account #: 00]-80450--702.008
Name: General Fund - Expenditure
Playgrounds -PARS (Alternative Retirement
System) $ 302
$ 292
Account #: 001-80450-702.009
Name: General Fund - Expenditure
Playgrounds - Operating Supplies
Account #: 001-80450-713-000
Name: General Fund - Expenditure
Playgrounds - Printing & Binding
$ 2,130
$ 300
Fin Mgr/ASD:
Date: ~2'IOT
Signature
REASON FOR BUDGET CHANGE ENTRY: Adjustment of revenue and expenditures to implement a fee
based pilot program beginning January 2008 at two school sites. The program will provide homework
assistance at Dublin Elementary and Dougherty Elementary.
City Manager:
Ignature
As Approved at the City Council Meeting on:
Date: I) !,J 7/ f; 7
Date: 12/4/2007
Mayor:
Date:
Signature
Posted By:
Date:
Signature
ATTACHMENT # 2
F:\Agenda\12_ 4BUDGCHNG_HomeworkHubPilot.DOC