Engaging Rural STEM Programs With After Action Reviews (AARs)

As part of the process evaluation for the Beyond School Bells STEM After School Program Partner's Grant, our team interviewed Program Directors in person. These discussions provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within their programs. A takeaway was that After Action Reviews (AARs) could be used by Program Directors as a mini process evaluation tool to unite best practices with real experiences to improve processes and programs. At "The Innovation Invitational" conference, we showcased a shared leadership model via a group learning activity. Using insights from our interviews, this session prompted discussions on utilizing AARs to enhance large events like Lights on After School and daily challenges such as student behavior management. This activity aimed to equip program directors with tools for reflective practice and continuous improvement, demonstrating how evaluators can effectively share knowledge and improve program capacity.
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Rebecca Monnier – Evaluation Manager, Research and Evaluation, Nebraska Children and Families Foundation