OVERVIEW OF PROJECT CONNECT MENTORING PROGRAM

Project Connect is a school-based mentoring program, which utilizes mentors in order to foster academic achievement and positive social/emotional development for at-risk students.

Research indicates that one hour of contact weekly is sufficient to produce positive changes in the student’s academic and social skills (Public/Private Ventures 2000).  Based on this research, mentors spend a minimum of one hour per week throughout the school year with their student. Activities include:  reading, homework help, sharing a hobby, eating together or talking.  Mentors participate in on-going training, such as diversity training and specific learning strategies, throughout the year.  Students are identified for Project Connect by school counselors, teachers, and SUCCESS case managers.

Project Connect was featured in the January 2008 National Education Association’s national journal, NEA Today, as a model for successful dropout prevention programming. While Project Connect students demonstrated academic improvement in grades and Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) test scores, the most dramatic impact of the mentoring program is reflected in the improved school bonding, reduced absenteeism, and decreased suspension rates for students. A mentoring relationship contributes to significant and positive changes for students in improving school performance and behavior.

Project Connect also offers extensive summer programming opportunities, to include structured group learning and fun activities, to all those who are interested in participating; however, summer programming is completely optional.  Some examples of summer programming we have done are:  Trips to the Science Center of Iowa, the Iowa Historical Building, Iowa Cubs games, Iowa Energy games, Omaha Zoo, Blank Park Zoo, Adventure land, Jester Park, YMCA Camp, Springbrook, and Living History Farms.  We also offer environment workshops, art/craft workshops, fishing, camping, picnics, reading groups and many other fun and engaging activities.  These activities offer students opportunities for learning, as well as foster relationship building with their mentors and communities.