Agenda Item
a. Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) Between DCSD & Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta ~ Level Up: In-School Mentoring Program (Year 2 of 3) (Not to exceed $249,983)
Summary: Presented by: Dr. Kishia K. Towns, Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services
Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the MOU between Big Brother Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta and DCSD to provide Level Up: In-School Mentoring services to 300 students at Lithonia Middle School during the 2024-2025 school year for an amount not to exceed $249,983.
Why: DCSD would like to implement the Level Up: In-School Mentoring program at Lithonia Middle School in order to support our students in developing a vision for the future, avoid risky behavior(s), and develop a sense of belonging. Lithonia was selected based on at-risk concerns presented by students during the 2022-2023 school year. Work will continue with the identified group and additional students will be mentored for the 2024-2025 school year.
Details: The Level Up program utilizes 3 paid staff members, including, 1 mentoring supervisor, and 2 lead mentors, who meet weekly with 8 groups of 5 students and hosts 10 1:1 sessions with students. They will have the capacity to serve 300 students through group and individual sessions.
Financial impact: The cost to implement the Level Up program will be paid using Federal funds from the Title IV grant at a cost not to exceed $249,983 against charge code: 462.2213.530000.03221.7020.1779.8010.090.2024.
Contact: Dr. Kishia Towns, Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-676-1811.
Mrs. Denise Revels, Director of Wrap Around Support, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-676-2011
Status: Pending review and approval by General Counsel.
Outcome Goal Year 1 Year 2
Littles will have decreased or no 75% 82% 82%
depressive symptoms
Littles will have a trusted adult in their 85% 94% 91%
life
Littles will have consistent or 75% 92% 90%
improved emotional regulation
Littles will have consistent or 80% 87% 88%
increased feelings of school
connectedness
Littles will complete a Future Planning 90% 85% 90%
Guide by the end of the year
Littles will avoid the Juvenile Justice 95% 99% 99%
System
Littles will have consistent or 75% 74% 79%
improved educational expectations
Littles will have reduced or no school 90% 84% 83%
discipline events
This data was compiled from the BBBSMA YOS (Youth Outcomes Survey) year to date
reflecting all Littles in the Level Up program.