| "GAO Report on Disconnected Youth - Federal Action Could Address Some of the Challenges Faced by Local Programs That Reconnect Youth to Education and Employment." The GAO reviewed 39 local programs that differed in their funding sources and program structure, yet shared some characteristics, such as years of experience serving youth. These programs received funding from multiple sources: federal, state, local, and private, although most relied on some federal funds. They were structured differently - for example, some were community-based organizations that provided services on a daily basis, some were charter schools, and some offered residential living. Most of the programs were created to address local concerns such as youth homelessness or dropout rates, and many had at least 10 years of experience serving youth. - Feb. 2008 Prom Awareness | Organized Communities, Stronger Schools: A Preview of Research Findings (March 2008) |  | Findings from a landmark six-year study by the Community Involvement Program of the Annenberg Institute for School Reform reveal that sophisticated community organizing at the grassroots level produces major improvements in student achievement. The study uncovered strong and consistent evidence that indicates effective organizing: contributes to higher attendance rates and test scores and increased graduation rates and college-going aspirations; fosters school-community relationships, parental involvement and engagement in schools; and, stimulates important changes in policy, practices and resource distribution that expand capacity and equity in traditionally underserved communities. The study's authors also argue that effective organizing groups achieve impact through a combination of system-level advocacy and school- or community-based activity. As a result of continued and consistent parental, youth and community engagement, improvements have been both generated and sustained. In addition to educational change, organizing groups contribute to the development of new civic capacity, as adults and youths report higher goals and expectations for themselves and their families after participating in community organizing groups. Authors: Kavitha Mediratta, Seema Shah, Sara McAlister, Norm Fruchter, Christina Mokhtar, Dana Lockwood. March 2008 |
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