2008 Grant Proposal Details

MEChA National Conference   Kelly Middle School

Total: $500

Description:  Expenses to help Kelly Middle School students attend the MEChA National Conference (March 26-29, 2009) at the University of Oregon. MEChA is the national college Latino ethnic student union. University of Oregon MEChA students serve as the academic and cultural mentors for Kelly Middle School Latino students.

Why is this important?  Having the opportunity to attend workshops and panel discussions by Latino campus leaders from across the U.S. will be an invaluable learning and mentoring experience. Being exposed to positive Latino college student role models from campuses across the U.S. will have a lasting effect on Kelly Middle School students.

Who will be served?  Kelly Middle School Latino students, all of whom speak Spanish at home, will attend. There are 15 seventh and eighth graders in Ganas.

How will this be evaluated?  We anticipate demonstrations of augmented positive cultural awareness and pride. In addition we anticipate continued dedication to academic success -- to match the accomplishments of MEChA role models. It is our hope that Ganas students will have an average GPA of 3.4 – to match entrance requirements at the U of O.

Does this build on existing programs?  Yes. Ganas began in 1996 at Kennedy Middle School, moved to Jefferson Middle School, then to Kelly Middle School in 2006. The program has proved to be very successful in raising Latino student grades, and in increasing cultural support and self-esteem in schools in which it has been supported. Attendance at the National conference will strengthen the Ganas program at Kelly Middle School.

Budget:  Salary: Kelly staff members who support Ganas work for free. Supplies: No supplies are needed. Equipment: No equipment is needed. Staff members will provide transportation for free. Services: MEChA National Conference registration fee = $40 per student x 15 students = $600. Meal expenses: $15 per students x two days = $30 per student = $450. Total cost = $1050 -- EEF request = $500.

Proposal #:  57