Our mission is to close the achievement gap The initial funding being requested is intended to get SVP established in partner schools that meet specific qualification criteria that (a) enable SVP to accomplish its core mission and (b) allow SVP to demonstrate a measurable impact. Dr. Jack Dvorak of Indiana University has conducted research studies that demonstrate a causal relationship between participation in high school journalism programs and an increase in academic achievement. The metrics defined here are intended to align with existing research, while showing direct impact as a result of the SVP program methodology.
Evaluating Impact through Quantity
In the next three years (Phase 1) of the program, SVP will restrict the network size in order to focus on proving the methodology. In the subsequent two years (Phase 2), SVP will expand regionally throughout Los Angeles.
Two key metrics will be assessed at regular intervals as checkpoints to gauge SVP’s progress:
- Number of Schools Engaged: This metric will reflect both the number of schools currently engaged with SVP, as well as the number that have “graduated” and are running their own journalism programs.
- Number of Students Impacted: This metric assumes that 16-30 students are enrolled in each school’s program.