Our Impact

In 2006-2007, SAGE reached approximately 175 high schools in nine countries. With SAGE teams averaging about 20 students per team, this means we impacted 3,500 high school students worldwide. In 2006-2007, with the addition of three more countries and two more states, along with growth in existing SAGE states and countries, we expect to reach at least 250 high schools and 5,000 students.

Because non-profit organizations like SAGE do not have a “stock exchange” to measure market value, it is extremely difficult to measure effectiveness. However, we must provide evidence of our performance. Collins (2005) states that it does not matter so much whether or not results can be quantified; rather, what matters is that quantitative or qualitative evidence of progress be rigorously assembled.

Measuring Effectiveness

Organizations like SAGE must think like trial lawyers in assembling a combined body of evidence. To this end, starting in 2006-2007, we are asking that each participating high school teacher complete a SAGE team data sheet that provides feedback about their SAGE program. Requested feedback includes number of faculty and students involved, new and continuing ventures operated, impact on the community of the projects (in terms of audience reach and goals accomplished) and organizations who have been enlisted as partners.

Also, in addition to the authentic assessment feedback SAGE receives when evaluating a team’s portfolio (consisting of the annual report, multimedia presentation and media attention received), we ask that SAGE students complete SAGE student questionnaire. Altogether, we are rigorously assembling the types of quantitative or qualitative evidence that Collins suggests.

Quotes and Testimonials

Other anecdotal evidence of success includes quotes and testimonials.

History

Sustainability of the SAGE program, and growth, is another measure of success. Therefore, we also provide a detailed history of SAGE.