Northstar provides objective, impartial reviews of the Grants to States for Workplace and Community Transition Training for Incarcerated Individuals program (IIP). Outside evaluations assist states in meeting the following grant requirements as stated in the grant guidance:
Annually report to the Secretary on the results of the evaluations conducted using the methods and performance measures contained in the proposal.
The application will “describes specific performance objectives and evaluation methods that the State correctional education agency will use in carrying out its proposal, including— specific and quantified student out come measures that are referenced to outcomes for non-program participants with similar demographic characteristics”
Evaluation methodology typically involves biannual observations of programming, management, data, and fiscal procedures. Approximately mid-year, following observations of the program, Northstar will submit an informal report to your state's IIP manager to be used internally. This report will identify commendations and recommendations to ready personnel for a more formal year-end report which is submitted to the IIP (Incarcerated Individuals Program) grant manager. Observations may occur in February and September, as the federal fiscal year is October 1 to September 30.
Northstar evaluations will target the following required evaluation elements:
(ii) knowledge and skill attainment, including specification of instruments that will measure knowledge and skill attainment;
(iv) success in employment indicated by job retention and advancement; and
(v) recidivism, including such sub indicators as time before subsequent offense and severity of offense;
Observations will examine the following:
- Identification and placement of eligible students
- Competencies connected to each course offered with IIP funds
- Appropriate post secondary certification of instructors providing IIP programming
- Site facilitation procedures
- Registration and course completion procedures
- Anecdotal student satisfaction and application of courses
- Fiscal accountability regarding spending caps
- Records and data tracking methods and reliability
- Student achievement results
- Accurate reporting of student participation and completion, student achievement, job placement, and recidivism
- Compliance with direct instruction and related services
- Annual drawn-down of funds to demonstrate need
Northstar uses an observation rubric employing a common set of data based on grant guidance, statutory regulations, and all trainings provided by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). This measurement tool is provided to states in advance after contract confirmation. Northstar works closely with USDE to remain apprised of changes and nuances concerning grant authorization and legal interpretations of statutory regulations. Additionally, in the course of providing correctional education consulting nationwide, Northstar also has the opportunity to observe correctional education practices that are particularly effective and replicable.
How much do evaluations cost?
Northstar will provide a cost quote to your state. Such factors as number of program participants, geographic separation of institutions, accessibility to records, and required time commitment determine the cost of evaluations. Typically, Northstar will ask you a few questions about your program and then provide a written quote for two consultants to travel to your state, inclusive of two (mid-year and year-end) two- to four-day visits per year and travel. When provided a written quote from Northstar, you can depend on us sticking to it--nothing added later. Evaluations for smaller state populations begin around $8,000 and most are within 5-10% of your federal grant award.
For general information about other evaluations, please go to the Home page or click here.