Organization
Packard Foundation
 
Category
Evaluation
 
Attributes
Applied research
Data analysis
Program evaluation
 
Project description
I served as lead author on a research report showcasing the impact of the Packard Foundation’s Summer Matters Campaign.
 
Approach
The report focused on the impact of the Summer Matters initiative, which aims to engage youth in fun and safe summer programs, mitigate summer learning loss, and help kids stay active and healthy. As lead author, I analyzed data from three California summer programs and addressed four evaluation topic areas: program quality, social skill development, academic self-efficacy and motivation, and program impact on English Language Arts proficiency. To address these topics, I analyzed school district data, participation and demographic data, parent and youth survey data, San Diego Quick Assessment data, and key informant interview data. The report concluded that summer learning programs helped youth sustain and build academic skills, stronger relationships, and positive work habits.
 
Impact

• Engaged with diverse stakeholders and visited three program sites across the state
• Analyzed academic, demographic, and attitudinal data from 1,000+ participants
• Demonstrated positive program impact based on rigorous evaluation methods