Program Model

GirlSMART is designed as an after-school program during the school-year, meeting four to five days per week. The program is targeted to high-needs, low resourced children, grades K – 2, and may take place in a school-based or center-based setting. Activities are designed to provide learning and captivate students’ attention in a fun and interactive manner after a long school day. GirlSMART uses “balanced” literacy strategies, including a mix of teacher-led read alouds, student reader’s theater, and vocabulary skill and development activities, as well as self esteem and social skills development through the integration of Qualities of Strong Smart Bold.

Independent evaluators conduct research and analysis on an annual basis to collect data on the success of the program towards those goals. The evaluation includes student assessment data as well as parent, teacher, and student survey information. The 2010-2011 evaluation results show that the program is helping girls improve their literacy skills as well as their self-esteem.