Focus on Observation

The best ELT and afterschool programs all hold one trait in common: careful and consistent observation of direct service staff that is connected to a well defined process of feedback and implementation. In order to fully realize the vision of a true expanded learning time experience for youth, we must work with staff members, supervisors and our partners in school administration to establish an observation and feedback system at all of our sites. Though there are many demands that compete for our time and attention, it is critical to the overall success of this endeavor that each site coordinator dedicate time each week to:

• observing staff interacting with participants in a variety of settings
• providing timely, consistent and solutions-oriented feedback to staff
• having intentional coaching conversations with staff that draw directly from your observation
• following up with support and resources based on the coaching conversations

To make the most of this investment of your valuable time, we would strongly suggest using one of the many readily available observation tools to guide this process. If your organization doesn't provide such a tool, or you feel you could benefit from the addition of another resource, here are a list of resources that have been tested and are aligned with the best practices in the field of youth development:

• The National Collaboration for Youth's Competency Assessment Observation Tool (also includes a brief listing of YDW Competencies for review with your staff and school partners) is ideally suited for classroom observation, and covers the competencies needed by our afterschool educators.
• Sponsored by the National Youth Development Information Center
• The Quality Self-Assessment Tool is produced by the California Afterschool Network, and has a broader focus than the COAT
• The California Afterschool Network also highlights a variety of other tools you may want to review
• The New York State Afterschool Network offers the QSA tool, a broader assessment tool that comes complete with resources that should help you implement a program development process.
• The Forum for Youth Investment offers a pamphlet that gives a brief overview of a wide variety of assessment and observation tools that may work for your program.

Of course, before you implement any observation regimen, you should make sure to connect with your school administration and fellow program supervisors to examine if the tool in question meets the needs of your program and community. And for course, once you begin (or especially if you've already begun, like over at Burnet Street), make sure to share your stories or resources with the rest of the cohort. Contact you Program Officer for posting information.