Missing Data - ADMIN - 9/14/2014 10:54:17 PMItem Caption:
RECEIVED
FEB 2 0 m3 ,
City Manager Approval Form
Consider authorizing the submission of a Fiscal Year Special Projects Grant application to the Texas State
Library and Archives Commission
Approval Date: February 22, 2013
Department Name: Library Department
Project Manager: Michelle Cervantes
Assigned Attorney:
Item Summary:
Grant funds to provide an after-school program in the Teen Room at the Round Rock Public Library. The City will contract with
Changing Expectations, a Round Rock based non-profit, to offer an after-school program focused on building literacy in design,
science, technology, engineering, mathematics and art (STEM+Art). Students from C.D. Fulkes Middle School will be the
beneficiaries of the program. There will be no fee for application. STEM+Art workshops one afternoon a week and one Saturday
a month, beginning in October 2013 through February 2014. The Library Director will provide program oversight and Changing
Expectations, as subcontractor, will manage the after-school program.
All equipment, tools and supplies, and the cost of contracting with Changing Expectations are eligible expenditures of grant
funds. No matching funds are required. If the application is approved by the TSLAC, contracts will be negotiated and issued in
August 2013.
No. of Originals Submitted: 2
Project Name:
Cost:
Source of Funds:
Grant Application
-so-
Select Source Fund
Source of Funds (if applicable): Select Source Fund
Account Number: 5470-4663-20008
Finance Director Approval: Elaine S. Wilson for Cheryl Delaney
Date: 02/20/13
Department Director Approval: Michelle Cervantes Date: 2-20-13
**Electronic signature by the Director is acceptable. Please only submit ONE approval form per item. **
CIP Budget
N/A OK N/A
C
Purchasing
OK N/A OK
Accounting I ► z
N/A OK
ITEMS WILL NOT BE PLACED ON THE COUNCIL OR CM AGENDA W/OUT PRIOR FINANCE AND/OR LEGAL APPROVAL
REV. 6/20/11
Page 1 of 5
GRANT APPLICATION/PROPOSAL REVIEW FORM
2013
Grants Coordinator Laurie
Bom
671-2876
Submit completed form for all City Manager and City Council approvals.
Required to: a) submit a grant application b) accept a grant c) renew a grant d) change the budgeted amount of a grant
Department Name:
Dept Contact Person:
Dept Director's Signature:
Departmental Goal #:
Strategic Plan - Priority Goal #:
Library
Michelle Cervantes
Relates to opportunities for personal and professional growth.
9.0 Ensure plans, policies and procedures are consistent with vision
and intent of strategic plan
Requested City Council or City Manager Approval Date:
For Finance Use ONLY
Deadline for GAPR Review:
2/1912013
Tag #:
Original Documents Received: 1 2/19/2013
Grant Title & CFDA #:
Funding Agency/Department
Program Name:
Grant Term Dates:
Est. Award Amount:
The CORR is a:
Special Projects Grant
Texas State Library & Archives Commission
2014 Special Projects Grant Program
09/01/13
Through
05/31/14
$49,500
Recipient mSub-Recipient
02/22/13
Grant Application Deadline: 02/27/13
Brief project description
To provide an after-school program In the Teen Room at the Library. The City will contract with Changing Expectations, a Round Rock based onon-profit,
to offer an after-school program focused on building literacy in design, science, technology, engineering, mathematics and art (STEM+Art). Students from
C.D. Fulkes Middle School will be the beneficiaries of the program. There will be no fee for participation. STEM+Art workshops will take place one
afternoon a week and one Saturday a month, beginning In October 2013 through February 2014. The Library Director will provide program oversight.
Changing Expectations will manage the after-school program.
Finance Information
Is this a new program?
BUDGET SUMMARY
If yes, complete a Program Change
Yes No Worksheet (see Tab 2)
Fiscal Year
FY12-13
FY13-14
FY14-15
Total
Grant Amount
$ 49,500
$ 49,500
$ 99,000
Required Match*
$ -
$ -
$
Staff Time
Operational Expenses
TOTAL Costs
$ 49,500
$ 49,500
$ 99,000
Source of Required Matching $:
Proposed Grant -Funded
FTEs: El NIA
TITLE
COSTIYEAR
TOTAL:
$
GRANT -FUNDED MULTI-YEAR TOTAL:
RECURRING COSTS:
El Advanced Funds
Reimbursable Funds
Yes, this is an "in-kind" service agreement.
If yes, have the departments providing services been contacted?
Performance Measures: list three)
1 Register a minimum 15 students for the program
2 Conduct 19 after-school workshops and 4 Saturday workshops
3 Conduct pre -participation and post -participation surveys of students, parents, teachers and RRISD administrators
This is an ILA or MOU with: (names of collaborators)
This is a: (choose application type)
Competitive Application
There will need to be an MOU with RRISD and/or the principal at C.D. Fulkes, and a
contract with Changing Expectations.
Gm- 13 —oz —154 cp
REVISED 2202013
Program Change Worksheet Library
Department ( 20000
Fiscal Year Implemented
Priority #
2013-2014
Division # 20009
Program Innovation Station
0
Proaram Dsscriatlon & Justification (attach adtptionai owes it needed}
The proposed Innovation Station addresses an education crisis in the U.S.: a relative decline in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) proficiency, fewer
young people interested in STEM fields, and a related decline in measured creativity. The future competitiveness and innovative capacity of the U.S., the quality of the
workforce, and the prospertiy of future generations are at risk. This is an after-school program focused on building literacy in STEM+Art. The library will host the
program one afternoon a week and on 4 Saturdays. All equipment and supplies are paid for by the grant. The contract for professional services with Changing
Expectations (a Round Rock -based non-profit) will be paid for by the grant. No matching funds requirement.
i.l\'.LI I_...1.1 7.1.. it: .i L._.li_
Identify performance measurements that will show how this new
or other departments. Indicate measurement WITH and WITHOUT
Performance Measurement
program will provide an improvement
the program changes.
Actual 2012
or benefit to your department,
Est. 2013
citizens
Proposed
Without
change
Proposed
With
change
Register Minimum 15 middle school students for program
N/A
15
N/A
15
Conduct 19 afterschool workshops in Teen Room
N/A
19
N/A
19
Conduct 4 Saturday workshops in Teen Room
N/A
4.0000
4.0000
Division Goafis) Affected
Total FTEs
Costs/Savin s S , l r
0.00
Total Pro ram
Program Change Worksheet we n e 1 rary
Division 0 20009 Fiscal Year Implemented 2013-2014
Program Innovation Station Priority # 0
Contractual Services - 5200 Series
Acct 4 Quantity / Description ' Amount
5216 Contract w/Changing Expectation $ 30000
$ 0
$
2013-2014 1 ( YR 2 I YR 3
Total Contractual Services
$ 30,000 $ 30,000 $ 30,000
Mat rials and Suppfes - 5300 Series
Awl 5 Quantity / Description : Amount
5316 Supplies and materials $ 7,000
5368 Computer hardware $ 10,000
5369 Computer software $ 2,500
$
I 2013-2014 1 1 YR 2 1 YR 3
Total Materials and Supplies
$ 19,500 $ 19,500 $ 19,500
Other Expenses - 5400 Series
AccL 4 Quantity / Description Amount
$
$
$
1 2013-2014 1 I YR 2 1 I YR 3
Total Other Expenses
$ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Capital Outlay 6100 Series (Fill out Cap Otly Form)
Acct. 4 Quantity / Description Amount
$
$ 0
$ 0
$ 0
$ 0
$ 0
I 2013-2014 1 1 YR 2 1 1 YR 3
Total Capital Outlay
$ $ 0 $ 0
PERSONNEL
Pay Grade
FTE Position Title
Months
Monthly Salary
FTE
2013-2014
YR 2 (12 mos)
YR 3 (12 mos)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0.00
0
0
0
0.00
0
0
0
0.00
0
0
0
Subtotal FTEs
0
0
0
Total Number of FTE Positions that will be filled by this Program (No.
of Persons to be hired)
0.00
Temp Position Title(s)
Months
Monthly Salary
FTE
2013-2014
YR 2 (12 mos)
YR 3 (12 mos)
0.00
0
0
0
0.00
0
0
0
Subtotal Temp
0.00
0
0
0
Total Number of Temp Positions that will be filled by this Program (No. of Persona to be hired) 0.00
Hours Hourly Rate
Overtime 1 01 Olx 1.5 ( 01 1 01 1 0
Elig. Pers No. of Weeks
Standby 1 01 0x30 01 0 0
FICA (Equals Total Salaries x 0.0765)
0
0
0
Insurance (Equals No. of Mos. x $695)
0
0
0
TMRS (Equals Total Salaries x 0.13)
0
0
0
Workers' Comp. 1 0.001661X Total Salaries
0
0
0
TWC (Unemployment) 0.00 Persons x $9000 x
0
0
0
.015
TOTAL PERSONNEL COSTS ' ' 0
49,500 3 49,500 3 49,500
Page 2 of 3
Grant Application/Proposal Review Checklist (GAPR)
Grants Coordinator
Laurie Bom
671-2876
Department Name: Library
Dept. Contact Person: Michelle Cervantes
Dept. Contact Phone #: 218-7010
6 This grant requires cost sharing.
Amount: Source:
This grant requires a public hearing. Hearing required on/before:
Grant Coordinator Use Only
Last Updated:
Due to CC/CM:
In what measurable way does this project improve core services?
Provides opportunity for at -risk middle school students and their
families to improve understanding of science, technology,
enaineerina. mathematics and creativity ISTEM+Arkl.
How does this project align with the City's strategic priorities?
Addresses need for STEM training for future workforce and the
need to improve STEM performance at Title 1 schools.
NOFA online @:
Yes No
n El Is this project necessary to maintain ISO ratings or accreditation?
ral Was this project included in last year's Operating Budget?
E If the grant is not awarded, will the project or service be provided? If yes, how?
J This grant is part of a larger project with multiple sources of funding. Discuss:
This project requires collaboration between multiple Departments. Discuss:
This project will require subcontract(s) or consultant(s). Discuss: Requires a contract with Changing Expectations for program development and program ml
If this is something other than a one-time purchase, or one -day project, identify each
staff person needed to accomplish the program objectives and the percent of time per
month needed for each (include accountinsi staff):
Title
Pay
Grade
The Department will request funding from the General Fund to continue the program when grant funding ends.
Est. $/Year
This project is considered a baseline program that must be continued with or without grant funding.
Est. $/Year
This is a pilot or demonstration program. There may be a need for a follow-up grant or supplemental
funding from the General Fund for the follow-up program.
Est. $/Year
This project requires collaboration between multiple Departments. Discuss:
This project will require subcontract(s) or consultant(s). Discuss: Requires a contract with Changing Expectations for program development and program ml
If this is something other than a one-time purchase, or one -day project, identify each
staff person needed to accomplish the program objectives and the percent of time per
month needed for each (include accountinsi staff):
Title
Pay
Grade
%
# of
months
Salary
Benefits
Total
$ -
TOTAL
This project will require additional training not funded by the grant. Discuss:
Q This project requires special licensing/certifications. Discuss:
0 This project requires travel not funded by the grant. Discuss:
Identify the source and amount:
This project will require new equipment not funded by the grant. Discuss:
This project will require additional training not funded by the grant. Discuss:
This project requires special licensing/certifications. Discuss.
If funded, this grant will require reporting to:
Agency Name
Milestone
Reports Due
Financial
Reports Due
Reporting System
Name
REVISED 2202013
Grant Application/Proposal Review Checklist (GAPR)
Q This project will incur expenses for maintenance/operation/testing.
Identify the source and amount:
Discuss:
0 This equipment is necessary to maintain ISO rating or accreditation. Discuss:
El The grant is supplying equipment rather than funding. Discuss:
0 This equipment will require an extended warranty or service agreement. Discuss:
f] The life -cycle for this equipment is less than 3 years. Discuss:
0 The funder has an ownership interest in the equipment. Discuss:
Does the Department already own this equipment or similar equipment? If so, describe the need for new/additional equipment:
Identify the vendor(s) that provided pricing for the equipment:
1 Name: Contact:
2 Name: Contact:
3 Name: Contact:
Website URL:
www.
www.
www.
COi:1i1ENTS
REVISED 220/2013
TSLAC Grant Management System
Page 1 of 1
IGrant Contact:Erica McCormick
Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Special Projects FY2o14
Organization Information
U.S. Congr. Distr No.: 31
State Senate Distr. No.: 5
State House Distr. No.: 52
Contact Persons
GMS
Name User E-mail
Role
Director/Coordinator Michelle Programmcervantes@roundrocktexas.gov
Cervantes Manager
Contact 1 Laurie Financial lborn@roundrocktexas.gov
Born Manager
Proposed Funding Sources
a. TSLAC grant: 49500
b. Other federal gov't funds: o
c. Other state funds: o
d. Local funds: o
e. Program income: o
f. Miscellaneous: o
TOTAL: 49500
Is the applicant delinquent on any Federal debt? NO
Signature
I certify, to the best of my knowledge, that the statements made in this application are true, that the information
provided is correct, and that I am authorized to enter into legally binding commitments on behalf of the applicant
organization.
Application Completed by:
Michelle Cervantes Date:o2-19-13
Application Approved by:
Date:
Approved by Signature ame:
Approved by Title:
Date:
https://gms.tsl.state.tx.us/application/printapp.php?printForm=Applicant Information
2/20/2013
TSLAC Grant Management System Page 1 of 1
Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Special Projects FY2o14
Organization Information
Name:
Legal Entity:
Address:
City, State Zip:
Employer Identification
Number:
Round Rock Public Library
System
City of Round Rock
216 E Main Ave
Round Rock, TX 78664-5245
746017485
Budget Table for Fiscal Year 2014
(20 points)
Capitalization Level: 5000
Grant Contact:Erica McCormick
Grant Information
Special
Projects
2014
Type:
Fiscal Year:
Application
ID:
1559
Budget
Category
Grant
Funds
Other
Funds (if
applicable)
(S)
Description
Total
Costs
(S)
Personnel
Fringe Benefits
0
o
0
0
Equipment/Property
Item 1: 25 Chromebooks @ $249 ea. = $6,225
Item 2: 1 Dell OptiPlex 9010 desktop p.c. and
11710 o dual 14" monitors on reinforced pedestal @
$2,500 Item 3: 1 3D printer @ $2,500 Item 4:
Equipment warranties @ $1,245
Item 1: Furnishings Workshop bench, table,
stools, chairs, white board = est. $72o Item 2:
Accessories - Storage bins, dry erase markers,
erasers, wet/dry vacuum, bench brush, trash can
and cleaning supplies est. $1,800 Item 3: Tools
8790 o and materials for 20- 25 students est. $4,070
Electronics Project kits and related materials for
20 - 25 students est. $1,500 Textiles and tools,
materials and soft circuits est. $500 Advertising,
copies and printing est. $200 Meeting Supplies
est. $800
Supplies (incl.
Library Materials)
Contractual Services 2900o
Other _' 0
Totals 49500
Professional Services: Changing Expectations,
o
Corp.
0
https://gms.tsl. state.tx.us/application/printapp.php?printForm=Budget
11710
87901
0
49500
2/20/2013
TSLAC Grant Management System Page 1 of 8
Grant Contact:Erica McCormick
Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Special Projects FY2o14
Organization Information
Name:
Legal Entity:
Address:
City, State Zip:
Employer Identification
Number:
Round Rock Public Library
System
City of Round Rock
216 E Main Ave
Round Rock, TX 78664-5245
746017485
Grant Information
Special
Projects
Fiscal Year: 2014
Application
ID:
Type:
1559
Narrative
Project Location:
- Round Rock Public Library, Round Rock, TX
Project Title:
- Innovation Station
Project Director:
- Michelle Cervantes
If the TSLAC Library Development Consulting Staff has reviewed a draft of this application, please
provide the Consultant's Name.:
Program Abstract:
- Under development
1. Needs Assessment (15 points): Describe why the program is needed, the program goals and the audience.
Describe the greater community to be served using demographic statistics, library records, or surveys to support
these statements. Email or mail letters of cooperation demonstrating commitment to the project from agencies
involved. See guidelines.
- There's an education crisis in the U.S.: a relative decline in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)
proficiency, fewer young people interested in STEM fields, and — perhaps most alarming — a decline in measured
creativity. The future competitiveness and innovative capacity of the U.S., the quality of our workforce, and the
prosperity of future generations are at risk.
Texas still lags behind national averages on most major indicators of science and mathematics performance,
including: (1) proficiency scores in both grade 4 and grade 8, (2) the percentage of 8th graders enrolled in advanced
courses, (3) the percentage of 9 -12th graders taking advanced courses, and (4) the percentage of 12th graders taking
advanced placement exams. In Texas, mathematics and science scores of African-American and Hispanic student
populations generally fall significantly below their white peers. This is true for test results on both the National
Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) and the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS)
assessments.
Round Rock Public Library's proposed Innovation Station is an after-school program focused on building literacy in
design, science, technology, engineering, mathematics and art (STEM+Art). Innovation Station draws its inspiration
from the Maker Movement, a broad-based community that celebrates the art of designing and building things, either
doing it yourself (DIY) or with others (DIWO). Here's why Making is important :
• Hands-on, project- and design -based learning approaches are more consistent with the cognitive processes and
learning styles we attribute to the millennial generation and younger.
• These approaches spark creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and other 21st century learning skills. They
"pull" kids into STEM disciplines by generating interest and confidence, rather than pushing them to "do better in
math and science."
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TSLAC Grant Management System Page 2 of 8
• The Maker Movement, with its emphasis on DIY and DIWO projects, provides a strong community and supporting
philosophy that inspires this type of creative learning and can appeal to both girls and boys across a broad range of
socio-economic backgrounds.
Innovation Station is a "Makerspace" — a collaborative workshop where young people gain practical hands-on
experience with new technologies and innovative processes to design and build projects, and develop the capacity
and confidence to innovate. "Making," as described by Makerspace (see www.makerspace.com), is "a gateway to
deeper engagement in science and engineering but also art and design."
Innovation Station is a collaborative initiative between:
Organization Role
1) Round Rock Public Library - Provide the space for Innovation Station
(grantee) - Contract with a non-profit provider of
STEM programs to develop and manage the
program.
2) Changing Expectations Corp. - A Round Rock -based nonprofit with a
(subcontractor) mission of inspiring and raising STEM
academic achievement among traditionally
underserved students.
- Project design and program
administration.
3) C.D. Fulkes Middle School - Administrators, teachers, students and
Round Rock ISD their families participate in the
(beneficiary) after-school program.
Innovation Station will introduce new tools for advanced design and new ways of thinking about making. The
students participating in this program will gain practical hands-on experience with new technologies and innovative
processes to design and build projects. These students will build a record of participation in the Maker community,
which can be useful for academic and career advancement. The program will develop educational contexts that link
the practice of making to formal concepts and theory.
The over -arching goal of Innovation Station is to engage and excite kids, and spark interest in STEM and the arts, as
well as develop students' creative capabilities.
Innovation Station will:
• Nurture habits of mind that Makers have — students will be curious and motivated; thoughtful and innovative, and
able to learn on their own.
• Offer challenging and relevant STEM+Art content, encouraging hands-on, inquiry -based learning.
• Generate lessons learned that can be broadly used, adapted, scaled or replicated in other libraries.
• Serve students from groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM.
Underserved and at -risk middle school students, along with their parents and teachers are the target audience.
Students will be referred by teachers at C.D. Fulkes Middle School and may also apply for participation. Preference
will be given to students who are eligible for free/reduced lunch.
C.D. Fulkes Middle School is located in central Round Rock, about a half -mile from the Round Rock Public Library.
The campus qualifies as a Title I school, 68 percent of students are Economically Disadvantaged (as compared to the
State average of 6o.4%). In fall 2012, there were 839 students enrolled.
Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test scores at C.D. Fulkes Middle School clearly show that math
and science scores of African American students and Economically Disadvantaged students fall significantly below
the scores of White students. See Table 1. Performance Objectives in the 2012-2013 Campus Improvement Plan at
C.D. Fulkes Middle School include each student group reaching a minimum of 8o% in math and science.
Table 1. 2011 TAKS Scores (2010-2011 AEIS Report):
Math Dist Campus AfAm Hisp White EconDis LEP
Grade 6 91% 88% 82% 9o% 88% 86% 86%
Grade 7 9o% 81% 59% 84% 87% 8o% 88%
Grade 8 9o% 78% 59% 8o% 81% 76% 8o%
Science Dist Campus AfAm Hisp White EconDis LEP
Grade 8 89% 75% 57% 75% 82% 73% 5o%
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Page 3 of 8
Student Ethnic Distribution (2011-2012 AEIS Report):
AfAmer Hispanic White Native American Asian PacIsl Two or More Races
15.6% 55% 23.9% o.6% 2.2% o.1% 2.6%
Percentage of at -risk students: 42.8%
Percentage of Limited English Proficient (LEP) students: 14.8%
2011 Accountability Rating: Academically Acceptable
2. Program Design (2o points):Thoroughly describe the services, programs, and activities and the locations
where they will be offered. Explain how these services will attract shared library users. Collaborative projects have
priority and inclusion of relevant community organizations is encouraged.
- Innovation Station is a Maker -movement inspired program that will take place after school and 011 Saturdays at the
Round Rock Public Library. Making activities not only engage and excite kids, but can spark interest in STEM and
the arts, as well as develop students' creative capabilities. This is particularly important because studies indicate that
an interest in science, rather than proficiency, is more strongly predictive of a young person pursuing a STEM career.
The Round Rock Public Library will partner with Changing Expectations, a nonprofit organization specializing in
inspiring and raising STEM academic achievement, to offer the after-school and Saturday program to students from
nearby C. D. Fulkes Middle School (Round Rock ISD). The Library will provide an appropriate space to host
Innovation Station for flexible usage as a Makerspace. Changing Expectations will work with C.D. Fulkes Middle
School to identify and enroll students who are interested in participating. We anticipate a strong demand for the
program and a minimum enrollment of 15 students. There will be no fee for participation in the pilot program.
Studies show that lack of interest and inspiration keeps students from being successful in learning STEM fields and
pursuing STEM careers, and this is especially the case for African American and Hispanic students. Changing
Expectations' foundational belief is based on changing the expectations of students, teachers, and parents. Therefore,
the Maker program uses engaging strategies and curricula that have been shown to positively impact and inspire
students. Innovation Station is a project -based, hands-on, meaningful, minds -on, relevant, real-world, no
worksheets, and technology enhanced program.
Parent involvement for traditionally underserved students will be a major component of this project. Parents will be
asked to participate in Saturday activities especially because of the need for transportation, and, while present,
information on preparing students to be college and career -ready for STEM+Art study will be presented to parents.
Since this is a pilot program for the Library and for Round Rock ISD, Innovation Station will offer "beginner" level
programs, targeting students with no prior hands-on project or "making" experience. This is a two-phase program.
In Phase One, a fall clinic will orient the middle school students to a culture of making with emphasis on the design
I process, tools and equipment,and safety. Mentors/coaches, parents and instructors will complete a complementary
training session focused on safety and age-appropriate, culturally relevant approaches to STEM+Art. Phase One will
end with a clear understanding of the Makers project each student envisions creating and an Individual Project Plan
{ (IPP) — a methodology for completing the project. In Phase Two, student makers, coaches and mentors will develop
their projects as outlined in each IPP. The program will culminate in a mini Makers Faire that will allow the students
to describe and demonstrate the product they created, the process followed to achieve the end product, and the tools
used.
The program will be offered for a two-hour period, once a week for 12 - 15 weeks, and monthly, on Saturday
mornings, for two hours. The minimum 24 hours of workshops will give students the chance to overcome initial
reservations about Making and increase the chance of sparking the "Maker" passion within them.
Types of Activities: Project activities can be very wide-ranging and may include making electronic gadgets, robots,
craft -oriented projects, digital fabrication, software oriented projects, music, hydroponics, and clothing/wearable
projects.
Facilities: The current Round Rock Public Library Teen Room — 1,044 square feet, will be adapted to provide surface
workspace to support a limited number of low-cost tools (to layout, cut, assemble, disassemble, sew, glue, etc.), and
computer workstations for small group and individual project research and development.
In December of 2012, teens were part of a focus group on library programs and library usage. Priorities identified by
the teens included: a better designed space with laptops instead of desktop computers, enhanced digital connectivity
(for faster downloads and internet searches), and group space for working on projects. Interestingly, these teens
wanted more science, biology and chemistry books, and more arts and craft workshops. They also wanted display
space for teen artwork and an Art Club. Many of the improvements the focus group identified match the description
https://gms.tsl.state.tx.us/application/printapp.php?printForm=Narrative 2/20/2013
1
TSLAC Grant Management System
of Makerspace facilities.
Page 4 of 8
Furnishings and additional shelving in the Teen Room will be arranged to reflect how students use the space.
Existing locked cabinets will provide the necessary security to prevent theft of the projects -in -process, tools and
materials between weekly workshop sessions.
Should there be a need for additional space, the Library has two large meeting rooms that can be scheduled for
occasional afternoon usage or Saturday work sessions. The Round Rock Art Gallery across the street from the Library
could also be adapted to accommodate a small work space for arts and crafts projects. The Gallery is also available
for art shows and Maker exhibitions.
Tools: Typical tooling includes a 3D printer, vinyl cutter, laptops, a sewing machine, and small hand tools such as
scissors, wire cutters, screwdrivers, wrenches, socket sets, etc.
Materials: Materials include electronic components, Arduino boards, gears, wheels, wire, PVC, foam board, duct
tape, craft paper, glue, markers, paint, fabric, recycled materials, and so on, depending on the activities planned.
Coaches (Instructor) Qualifications: Qualified instructors who are experienced in working with students and
comfortable in overseeing hands-on project work will be provided through Changing Expectations. In addition,
volunteer mentors from the community or the City of Round Rock will be recruited. Background checks will be
provided to ensure a safe environment for students.
Coaches and mentors will be trained to provide positive, creative feedback to young Makers. They will understand
how to exploit the "teachable moments" that naturally occur during making to expose underlying STEM+Art
concepts in an inspiring and engaging manner.
Coaches/instructors and mentors should be willing to :
• Work one-on-one with students or in groups of up to 4 participants, or with one or more project groups to develop
projects to meet their milestones and final deadline.
• Attend meetings as scheduled.
• Identify students who might need extra support or encouragement.
• Offer specific guidance or workshops in areas of expertise in technology, art, craft, engineering, music, science,
green design, and other Maker themes, or demonstrate the curiosity and commitment necessary to develop such
skills.
• Help organize logistics for projects.
• Bring any serious concerns/issues to the attention of Changing Expectations.
• Engage in their own learning and exploration.
• Provide some technical support of project documentation (video, photos, sketchbook, lab notebook, blog).
• Establish contacts to obtain in-kind donations, sustain member projects, and to give members and other mentors
possible tips and resources.
Coach to Student Ratio: We anticipate a class of 20 to 25 student Makers. Typically, a group of 20 - 25 needs 1 lead
coach, strongly versed in Making activities, and one assistant who can be less familiar, but willing to learn, the skills
required, and two or three volunteer mentors.
Student Documentation: Changing Expectations will document the work of the young Makers by creating a blog or a
Tumblr site, and having the students document their work on line.
3. Project Impact (15 points):Describe the impact your project will have on library services and users locally, as
well as regionally, or statewide. This may include how the proposed project is a model program that would benefit
other communities.
- Innovation Station is a pilot program that establishes a new community resource for people who have a passion for
making things. Inspired by a desire to reinvigorate STEM -based education, the Innovation Station program seeks to
encourage exploration, invention, and the joy of learning.
The Maker movement and Makerspaces have only recently begun to be developed in public libraries. The first 2ist-
century Makerspace opened in Fayetteville Free Library in 2011. Typically, nonprofits work with school districts,
colleges and universities to offer physical space and access to experienced instructors and mentors/coaches. Round
Rock's collaboration with Changing Expectations, is, so far as we know, a first-time effort that partners a nonprofit
with a public library.
In January 2o13,the American Library Association (ALA) held a "Maker Monday" at its Midwinter conference in
Seattle. The workshop introduced programming and tools for library Makerspaces. Maker Monday was deemed a
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success, and the turnout demonstrated a desire on the part of librarians to seek more information on creating library
Makerspaces. According to the ALA plans are underway to provide additional learning opportunities at the 2013 ALA
Annual Conference in Chicago on bringing the Maker Movement to libraries.
The Round Rock Public Library will share how available resources and best practices can be adapted to present
STEM+Art within the physical space of a library Makerspace.
The Makerspace Playbook DRAFT has been instrumental in planning the Innovation Station physical space, and will
continue to be a point of reference. The Round Rock Public Library and Changing Expectations will develop a blog to
document observations and the lessons learned, and to share best practices with librarians and nonprofits involved
in creating Makerspaces of their own.
4. Personnel (5 points):Identify who will administer the funds and which positions will provide the services. List
how much time will be spent in each position on assigned duties; list how the qualifications of each position relate to
their job duties. Full job descriptions are required for new hires.
- The funds will be administered by the City of Round Rock. Michelle Cervantes, Director of the Round Rock Public
Library, will oversee the program. Ms. Cervantes will spend an estimated five percent of her time providing program
and budget oversight.
Ms. Cervantes has 7 -years of experience with the Round Rock Public Library. She holds a Master of Science from the
University of North Texas and a B.A. from Concordia University, Austin, TX.
Round Rock Public Library will contract with Changing Expectations, a nonprofit specializing in STEM education,
for project design and development for Innovation Station. Day-to-day coordination of the program will be the
responsibility of Changing Expectations.
Dr. Phillip Eaglin, Chief Executive Officer of Changing Expectations, will serve as liaison with C.D. Fulkes Middle
School, working with the principal and selected teachers to reach out to students and parents about the after-school
program and to register students. During the project kick-off phase, Dr. Eaglin will provide a weekly briefing for Ms.
Cervantes. Once the minimum number of students has registered, the program will begin and Dr. Eaglin will provide
monthly status reports to Ms. Cervantes.
ij Changing Expectations will:
• Recruit students, adult mentors, and a Lead Instructor
• Assign or help match mentors to project teams
• Work with project groups to help them achieve their project visions
• Run safety training and monitor that safety is practiced at all times
• Help project teams to acquire skills with tools, tool safety, and other
aspects of hand -on fabrication
• Track use of consumable materials, re -order as needed
• Schedule meetings and group build sessions
• Engage with colleagues in the Makerspace network to ask and answer questions
• Stay in touch with the Library Director
• Conduct surveys and other data collection to help improve the program
• Share the documentation collected
As the Founder and CEO of Changing Expectations, Dr. Eaglin has a perspective on his work that is firmly grounded
in his own history as a science classroom teacher and as a professional development provider for science and
mathematics education, as well as systemic school improvement. Dr. Eaglin is strongly committed to STEM teaching
and learning, with an emphasis on high -need, traditionally underserved student populations, their parents and their
teachers. Dr. Eaglin was instrumental in the design and implementation of the U.S. Department of Education's
Eisenhower Science and Mathematics Consortium Project and the Texas and Southeast Regional Comprehensive
Center grants. Dr. Eaglin served as a staff member at the Texas Education Agency from 2009-2011. He holds a PhD
in Science Education from The Florida State University. Dr. Eaglin founded Changing Expectations in 2009.
Most recently, Changing Expectations concluded its first six-week full-day STEM Summer 2012 Academy, which was
funded by the KDK-Harman Foundation, Austin. Over 150 students from throughout Central Texas participated.
Changing Expectations currently provides two STEM Innovation Clubs, one at Lanier High School in Austin ISD, and
one at Dessau Middle School in Pflugerville ISD. The current STEM Innovation Clubs provide tutoring and engaging
activities designed to inspire students' interest in STEM topics and careers.
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5. Timetable (5 points):Present a timetable for project activities within the fiscal year (i.e., a list of actions with a
date by which they will be accomplished); provide verification that facilities will be available, equipment and
materials delivered; and explain how the staff will be hired and trained in time to carry out the services as planned.
- Prior to September 1, 2013, the Round Rock Public Library will complete its upgrades to broadband technology in
the Library. This is a self -financed improvement previously budgeted by the City. Once a notice of funds awarded has
been received, Library staff and a representative from the City's General Services Department will meet with
Changing Expectations about adapting the Teen Room to accommodate Innovation Station workshops. A plan will
be jointly developed to seek quotes and acquire any new furnishings and equipment and supplies, as described in the
project budget.
In August 2013, Changing Expectations will meet with C.D. Fulkes Middle School to review Innovation Station
objectives and the schedule, and a plan for outreach.
In September 2013, Changing Expectations will develop outreach flyers and advertisements and registration
information. Printing and assembly will be scheduled for Week 1 of the grant funding period. In addition, Changing
Expectations will begin recruiting mentors and instructors through its professional networks, the University of
Texas, and TechShop (Round Rock). A list of qualified mentors/coaches will be finalized by Changing Expectations,
and submitted to the Library director on or before September 3o, 2013.
Phase 1- Outreach, Enrollment, Orientation and Safety Training
October 2013 Deliverable Responsible Party(ies)
Week 1 Outreach to C.D. Fulkes Middle School Changing Expectations
students
- coordinated with teachers and Campus
Improvement Plan team
Week 2 Continued student outreach and registration. Changing Expectations
Finalize selection of mentors/coaches.
Week 3 Training/orientation for adult leadership. Changing Expectations
Kick-off workshop/Fall Clinic — to orient
students to a culture of making and provide
safety training.
Week 4 Group discusses project interests and Changing Expectations
individual student goals.
Matching of students and mentors/coaches.
Week 5 Students formally commit to a specific Changing Expectations
project and corresponding Individual Project
Plan (IPP).
Mentors/coaches assist with creation of IPPs.
PHASE 2 - Skills Development and Mini Makers Faire
November 2013
Week 1 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
Saturday workshop #1
Week 2 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
Week 3 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
December 2013
Week 1 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
Saturday workshop #2
Week 2 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
Week 3 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
January 2014
Week 1 Review. Changing Expectations
Planning and making.
Week 2 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
Week 3 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
Saturday workshop #3
Week 4 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
February 2014
Week 1 Planning and making. Changing Expectations
Saturday workshop #4
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Week 2 Makers Faire Changing Expectations
Week 3 Innovation Station Celebration and wrap-up Changing Expectations
6. Evaluation (10 points):Set achievable, measurable outcomes and present a reasonable method to collect data.
Present a method to count users of the services, as well as the effectiveness of the service. Applicants are encouraged
to use the IMLS Oucomes Logic Model.
- According to the Framework for evaluating Impacts of Informal Science Education Projects (NSF, 2008),
evaluation of informal STEM programs like Innovation Station needs to be about understanding how the experience
of participating in/or engaging with the project has contributed to fostering, reinforcing and sustaining science
interest and understanding.
Six impact categories have been defined as the general categories of "what works" for evaluating informal science
education projects, they are:
1. Awareness, knowledge, or understanding about STEM+Art and possible STEM careers.
2. Engagement or interest, and identification with STEM+Art.
3. Attitude — e.g., a sense of competency.
4. Behavior — e.g., a mature, respectful relationship with peers and coaches/mentors.
5. Skills — e.g., enhanced understanding of specific STEM+Art processes.
6. Other (In this case, the collaborative aspects of Innovation Station — which are critical to the success of the
project)
An external evaluator will design evaluation instruments to:
• Capture transitions in the collaborative process (collect data at intervals over time coinciding with the collaborative
procedural structure);
• Invite open conversation about the collaborative experiences (periodically conduct one-on-one interviews with staff
throughout all participating organizations and facilitate group discussions);
• Measure change—administer a standardized measurement device to track change;
• Document the collaborative process (analyze meeting notes and observations);
• Implement data collection strategies throughout the collaborative process, and
• Use actual milestone achievements to realign data collection activities.
In addition:
• 9o% of students participating in the program will construct authentic (real-world) products representing STEM
learning.
• 9o% of students will attend every Innovation Station workshop.
• 9o% of students will participate in the Makers Faire at the end of the second quarter.
7. Sustainability (10 points):Describe the resources that will be used to support the services developed during
the grant year in the future. A written commitment of future support from governing bodies is desirable, but not
required.
• The following funders have been identified as potential sponsors and/or providers of free and low-cost technology,
software, tools, and supplies:
1. Applied Materials Foundation — funding for STEM education programs targeting underserved students.
2. AMD — "Changing the Game" STEM game design competition and "Whyville" Game Zone online game
development curriculum.
3. AutoDesk — "Digital STEAM Workshop" software for students and teachers.
4. Cognizant — "Making the Future" program, funds for Makerspace program development and start-up costs.
5. E -Line Media — "Game Master Mechanic" game development curriculum.
6. IKEA Round Rock — in-kind support for Innovation Station furnishings, shelving, and storage containers.
7. KDK Harman Foundation — operating costs for STEM after-school and summer programs.
8. PetLab — "Activate" game development curriculum.
9. Scholastic, Inc. — Game development curriculum and tools.
10. TechShop Round Rock — in-kind support through access to professional equipment and design software, and free
corporate events developed specifically to bring teams together and engage them in the act of making.
NOTE: TechShop is a membership -based, do-it-yourself workshop that opened a 22,000 square foot facility in
Round Rock in November 2012. TechShop has six stores nationwide; the location in Round Rock is the only location
in Texas. TechShop has been contacted about a potential partnership with Innovation Station. We envision
TechShop consultants participating as mentors to Innovation Station students and opportunities for special classes
on how to use the advanced technology available at TechShop.
We anticipate that some future tracks will be fee based and will help create a sustainable model. Initially we will use
this funding and any additional industry or foundation support to offset any fees. The goal is to fully support the
students at no cost while charging nominal fees for adults who use the resources.
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