MindSET Interactive Chapter Exchange, Part II
This is a summary of the 2010 TBP MindSET Cluster training session Interactive Chapter Exchange (MICE), which was a brainstorm session dealing with various challenges encountered when starting a K-12 program. This session included five chapters from the D.C. and Maryland-area.
Challenges
The group was split in half. Categories were formed based on similar perceived challenges.
Category 1: Smaller chapter, with inactive membership
Bring in volunteers from other student organizations
Partner with other TBP chapters
Contact and request support from TBP Alumnus chapters
Contact NMC for information about regional alumni support
Category 2: Motivation for members to commit
Restrict order of graduation items through TBP HQ
Partner first activity with well-known campus-wide event (E-day)
Give and assign leadership positions (several)
Category 3: Communicating with School Districts
Form partnerships with existing K-12 programs
Find a liaison, such as dean of student affairs to help start program
Category 4: Advertising your MindSET project
Talk to NMC and HQ for help with media and advertising
Publicize on campus: newspaper, E-week, bulletin boards
Category 5: Motivating Participants
Focus on a fun factor, be sure to use a variety of modules
Get feedback from K-12 students
Category 6: Transportation
Communicate with parents in advance, carpool possibilities
If necessary, consider making a school fieldtrip, but insurance issues may arise