New York Education Nonprofits Create Synergies for Success, Columbia University SIPA News
It was 1996, the beginning of the digital revolution. An early technology adopter, I was one of the first in my circle of friends and colleagues to have an e-mail address. I not only had an e-mail address, I also knew how to install memory in my computer—so I was definitely considered a techie (the technology has since surpassed my skills and I no longer hold this status). As a result of my early abilities, a teacher friend asked me to help his lower East Side public school purchase a computer lab. I met with him and the school principal and was quite surprised by what I discovered—a school with outdated computers (and few of them), no Internet access or wires, and, more importantly, no one in the building assigned to manage the technology, let alone focus on what to do with it.
I quickly became the school’s go-to person for anything “computer” and began to think about how I might recruit my friends to do for other schools what I was doing for this one. I was daunted by the prospect of starting something on my own, so I reached out to local nonprofits I thought might be interested in incorporating technology into their mission. Everyone I met agreed there was a dire need to bring the industrial age schools into the digital age, but no one seemed to want to take it on.
As luck would have it, I found some like-minded people in the local and growing tech sector, and together we founded the nonprofit MOUSE (www.mouse.org), a youth development organization providing student-powered technical support solutions for public schools (the program is now in more than 300 schools across New York and other U.S. cities and in 50 countries worldwide via a partnership with Microsoft). And thus began my 15-year journey navigating the massive New York City public school system—first as a volunteer, then as a nonprofit entrepreneur and executive director, and now as the parent of a third grader who attends our local public school.
I learned an important lesson early on: schools must be allowed to determine their own needs. One cannot push anything into or at schools—a program, free stuff, ideas. It simply does not work. The best way to support schools is to get teachers the resources they need, when they need them. There are literally thousands of nonprofits that touch NYC schools on a daily basis. With 1.1 million students—one in every 300 Americans is a current NYC public school student—it’s no wonder everyone is trying to help. But the important question is, what is really working? Teachers are quite astute as to what programs they want and don’t want. No nonprofit is going to be successful unless teachers want it there. And that goes not just for teachers, but the principal too. If your program is not aligned with school goals, your organization is just taking up space. I figured this out myself in the early days of running MOUSE. I assumed, as many nonprofits do, that every school in the city would want my program. It became clear to me what the gaps were, and I was going to deliver.
I found out the hard way—and many thousands of grant dollars later—that schools have to want your program so badly they are willing to go out of their way to get it. If you offer a program too easily, schools might take it just because it’s there and because it’s free. In order be successful, it is key to have schools apply for your program. The application process itself cuts out at least 50 percent of potential school partners. Further, if you charge for services, you will attract only the schools that truly see you as a priority. This doesn’t mean putting the entire financial burden on the schools: simply charge schools something—just enough so that they will have some skin in the game.
MOUSE and many organizations that work with large numbers of schools charge for their programs. MOUSE’s fee is $1,000 per year. This does not cover the cost of the program (MOUSE raises five times that amount per school), but the $1,000 fee means that the school is a committed partner. Enthusiasm and effort go a long way toward successful nonprofit school programs. Nonprofits are able to raise money from world-renowned foundations and Fortune 100 corporations and, incredibly, without consent from the NYC Department of Education (DOE). While you certainly have to prove there is need for your program in order to get money, I don’t recall ever filling out a grant application that asked for a concrete list of schools that had agreed to host my program should funding be provided. And certainly no school or DOE signature was required. The assumption is, if you have a great program, you should get money. But perhaps it is the schools that should be applying for the funding to bring the nonprofits to them.
Times have changed significantly since I left as executive director of MOUSE in 2003, and raising money has gotten a lot harder. Funders want to see performance data, impact measurement metrics, and return on investment calculations. I am fairly certain that going forward, organizations will not raise another dime for their school-based program unless they have specific, reliable evaluation mechanisms. It is a profound challenge: how can you tell if your program is the one raising attendance rates or increasing test scores relative to any number of other factors? The organizations that figure out how to track and measure effectively are the ones that are ultimately going to succeed.
Collaboration is not common among nonprofits, though it is beginning to happen more and more. Competition for funding tends to get in the way of nonprofit partnerships. However, when nonprofits do team up, not only do funders like it, but also, the value-added in terms of programming and student outcomes can be exponential. Under its current executive director, Carole Wacey, MOUSE is working in partnership with a variety of organizations, from the nonprofits Computers for Youth and Teaching Matters, to the City University of New York (CUNY), Australian United States Services in Education (AUSSIE), Time Warner, and Cablevision. This collaboration also has the backing of the NYC Departments of Education and Technology and Telecommunications, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and 72 NYC public schools. The program, called New York Connected Learning, is an “innovative solution to increase use of broadband technology and enhance educational outcomes for NYC public school students in the highest need communities across the city,” according to the MOUSE website. The initiative provides desktop computers to the students’ homes (Computers for Youth), coaching for teachers (Teaching Matters and AUSSIE), technical support (MOUSE and CUNY), and discounted broadband (Time Warner and Cablevision). What makes this successful is that each organization focuses on doing what it does best while supporting the others and building upon their skills and experience.
The New York City school system is making a conscious effort to foster collaborations and smart partnerships like this and understands the need to consider more carefully how the system interacts with nonprofits and other resource providers. Gregg Betheil, the executive director of the Office of School Programs and Partnerships at the NYC Department of Education, says that one of the challenges nonprofits face is that in spite of trying to do the right thing, impact students’ lives, raise achievement, and ‘fix’ what is wrong, very few organizations have a sense of how they fit into the larger picture. Betheil is beginning to address this by better articulating the DOE’s goals, objectives, and priorities, both from a systemic and individual school level. Nonprofits can then be more aware of how they are addressing gaps and, at the same time, supporting broader, long-term goals.
It appears that the closer you are to the system or to individual schools, the greater chance you are going to have at success. I am hopeful that as funding gets tighter, as the DOE makes the most of its nonprofit resources, and as nonprofits begin to work together, we are going to see some significant accomplishments. It simply has to happen. As both a practitioner and a parent, I am more determined than ever to make it work.
Sarah M. Holloway, MPA ’03, is a lecturer at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs
The list of what I have learned from the MOUSE Squad program can go on forever. The training has helped me to be confident about what I do and has taught me... read more ›
– Jessica Alberto, MOUSE Squad Member, Thomas A. Edison Career & Technology High School
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TechCrew allows me to start my day working with a group of students that have true passion and dedication…TechCrew teaches our students how to work as part of a group and leaves them... read more ›
– Marcos Alcozer, Northside College Prep High School, Chicago
MOUSE has helped me to gain job skills and it has been a great opportunity. The Squad has taught me many valuable lessons, the most important being responsibility and leadership. read more ›
– Khaleel Anderson, MOUSE Student, P256Q
MOUSE Squad has provided invaluable assistance to our school and made technology easy for our entire staff. Those on MOUSE Squad are surrounded by students who are successful inside and outside the classroom. read more ›
– Anthony Barbetta, Principal, Thomas A. Edison Career & Technology High School
I recognize MOUSE for its dedication to providing our city’s schools with the technological tools and support to keep our children competitive in the information age. read more ›
– Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor, New York City
The experiences that MOUSE provides its participants help ensure that high school graduates are prepared for good jobs during the summer and in their future careers. MOUSE’s unique emphasis on technology training... read more ›
– Gale Brewer, New York City Council Member, Technology Committee Chair
I love finishing school and coming to MOUSE. I love the teamwork and the time to learn new things about computers. read more ›
– Aram Buenaventura, MOUSE Squad Member, High School for Arts & Technology
MOUSE and SAP apply the same core values – quality, integrity, commitment, and passion – to our organizations. We see MOUSE Corps students as our next generation of employees and customers. MOUSE empowers... read more ›
– Ron Carolan, Chief Financial Officer, SAP Global Marketing
We must leverage technology to provide engaging, powerful learning experiences for all students, giving them authentic tools to solve real-world problems and opportunities to become better prepared for our globally competitive workforce. read more ›
– Karen Cator, Director of the Office of Educational Technology, U.S. Department of Education
MOUSE Squad has been a life changing experience for many of our students. They feel good about their role with technology, which builds their confidence and makes them more successful in... read more ›
– Kristy De La Cruz, Bea Fuller Rodgers School (IS 528)
When I started the internship, my manager brought me to the trading floor. It was the best thing in the world to see all the traders and to know they were my clients,... read more ›
– Duckens Durosier, MOUSE Squad Alum, George Wingate High School
Being on MOUSE Squad adds to my experience in school by making me confident about myself. read more ›
– Daniela Fernandez, MOUSE Squad Member, Sylvandale Middle School, California
Our MOUSE Squad students stand a little taller. They recognize that they have special skills and are respected for it.
– Dr. Katherine Flori, MOUSE Squad Coordinator, W.C Byrant High School, New York
To me, programs like this don't exactly go to every school around. I enjoy the program and what they teach. My interest in technology has enhanced greatly because of MOUSE Squad. read more ›
– Ally Garcia, MOUSE Squad Member, High School for Arts & Technology
Participating in the MOUSE Squad gave me a true sense of purpose. I never could have imagined in just 8 years, I would be CEO of my own technology consulting firm and... read more ›
– Juan Garzon, MOUSE Squad Alum, Robert F. Wagner Secondary School for Arts & Technology,
The people at MOUSE are a living, breathing testament to the notion that when an organization is centered around a thoughtful and attainable goal—staffed by competent, bright and passionate individuals—there is very little... read more ›
– Mehran Ghaffarsamar , MOUSE Intern, Baruch College
MOUSE provides a unique opportunity for students to give back to their school, deepening their sense of leadership and responsibility, and improving their relationships with peers and teachers—all the while getting hands-on experience... read more ›
– Maureen Guido, Principal, The Paula Hedbavny School
Our MOUSE Squad students are demonstrating leadership skills, learning about responsibilities and how to communicate with adults. This program is inspiring our students and giving them a glimpse of future career opportunities. read more ›
– Carla Haakma, Principal, Los Arboles Elementary School, California
MOUSE Squad students learn many skills frequently cited by employers as keys to success in the workplace, including leadership, communication, teamwork problem solving and time management. read more ›
– Jan Half, Program Director, MOUSE Squad of California
We recognize that student attendance and graduation are increasingly important issues facing public schools. We are looking to target specific schools as we have seen the TechCrew program have a positive impact in... read more ›
– Victor Herrera, Director of Technology, Theodore Roosevelt High School, Chicago
For our school, MOUSE Squad plays an integral role in supporting our technology, saving us both time and money. But more importantly, students participate in positive experiences that give them a strong... read more ›
– Seth Hubbert, MOUSE Squad Coordinator, High School for Arts & Technology
The MOUSE program should be in every school in New York City. read more ›
– Robert Jackson, Member, New York City Council
What excites me most about MOUSE Squad is going to fix computers and hanging out with friends. I really think MOUSE Squad pushes you to try and learn new things. read more ›
– Danielle Jacobs, MOUSE Squad Member, Cooper High School, Abilene Texas
I feel like I'm a part of an important team that keeps the school running more efficiently...Being on TechCrew helps improve the leadership qualities that we, as students, are developing for the future. read more ›
– Edwin Le, Northside College Preparatory High School, Chicago
I joined MOUSE to explore my passion for technology and be a part of an organization that values communications and teamwork. read more ›
– Rigel Leonard, MOUSE Corps Member, School of the Future
“I am amazed at the eagerness and enthusiasm of my MOUSE Squad. They have dedication and motivation, and are the reason I want to come to school every day.” read more ›
– Victor Lopez, MOUSE Squad Coordinator, MS 328
MOUSE has had such a positive impact on my life, including my college and work experiences. MOUSE has exposed me to aspects of this world that I would not otherwise have had the... read more ›
– Ryan Mason, MOUSE Squad Alum, School of the Future
MOUSE that trains tech-savvy students in inner-city schools to become tech support leads and ambassadors within their schools and then provides mentorship opportunities to help them take their digital expertise to the next... read more ›
– Caroline McCarthy, Social Media Marketing Manager, Google
MOUSE Squad has taught me the skills I need for the future. read more ›
– Ismelda Monegro, Bea Fuller Rodgers School, New York
MOUSE has been one of the best things in which I have participated in my 21 year career. It continues to be good for both students and teachers at every school where I... read more ›
– Nathan Monroe, Coordinator, Academy of Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Science, Texas
MOUSE brought me where I stand today and gave me real life work experience. MOUSE taught me about leadership and teamwork, and that there is no such thing as a bad idea. read more ›
– Dhondup Namgyal, MOUSE Corps Member, International High School
Being on the MOUSE Squad motivates and inspires me, and has helped me to learn to aim higher. read more ›
– Zainab Oni, MOUSE Squad Member, Hudson High School of Learning Technologies
MOUSE students are innovators that use technology to change the world. read more ›
– Neimat Orengo, MOUSE Alum, MOUSE Student, James Madison High School
The MOUSE Squad students are very curious and want to learn. Everyone knows about the MOUSE Squad in this school. read more ›
– Emmanuel Ourum, CUNY Intern, PS 43 MOUSE Squad
My internship with Sullivan & Cromwell would not have been possible without the help of MOUSE, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help students integrate technology into their everyday lives and ultimately... read more ›
– Ivan Pereda, MOUSE Squad Member, Baccalaureate School for Global Education
Leadership, pride, self confidence and a sense of responsibility -- this is the impact of the MOUSE Squad program on our students. read more ›
– Norma Perez, Principal, Bea Fuller Rodgers School, New York
Our MOUSE students realize that this is just the beginning. They can go on to college to study computer technology, and become help desk technicians and repair specialists…and many do. read more ›
– Irwin Queen, School of Cooperative Technical Education
MOUSE Squad has proven time and again that students who graduate after participating are more equipped for the next stage in their lives, especially in today’s vast information technology world. This program... read more ›
– Christine C. Quinn, Speaker, New York City Council
Thanks to Abilene Independent School District (AISD) for incorporating such a program and major kudos to Nathan Monroe, MOUSE Squad Coordinator, ATEMS. He actively leads a group that daily makes the teacher’s lives... read more ›
– Rebecca Rampy, Instruction Technology Specialist, Academy of Technology, Engineering, Math and Science (ATEMS) in Abilene, Texas
Juniper's community engagement vision is to use the power of the new network to take on the toughest challenges facing our communities and to connect and empower people everywhere. MOUSE exemplifies this vision... read more ›
– Darryl Ramsey, Public Sector - Americas, Business Development and Technical Strategy, Juniper Networks
MOUSE empowers students to lead and support the use of technology in their schools, while also helping them to discover their creative, technological, and learning potential. read more ›
– Linda G. Roberts, National Consultant on Technology and Education
At Best Buy, we believe in the power and potential of youth. We are proud to be long-time investors in MOUSE, an impressive and growing organization that is having a dramatic impact on... read more ›
– Susan Bass Roberts, Senior Director, Community Relations, Best Buy
I thank MOUSE for starting my career. Without MOUSE, I would not be as successful as I am today. read more ›
– Mendy Rodriguez, MOUSE Squad Alum; Junior Analyst, IT Service Desk, Time Inc.
MOUSE has taught me many valuable lessons that will help me in life. read more ›
– Madeline Sariol, MOUSE Student, In-Tech Academy
Thanks to efforts of MOUSE, young people throughout New York City will have the opportunity to better their lives and become productive members of our society.
– Charles E. Schumer, United States Senator for New York
I commend MOUSE for improving the educational opportunities for young people, motivating them to attend college and preparing them for high quality jobs in the future. read more ›
– José E. Serrano, Congressman, 16th District of New York
Watching MOUSE Squad grow from a pilot to an established entity has been a thrilling experience. I’ve seen my students grow from tentative kids, virtually afraid of touching machines, to savvy technicians,... read more ›
– Kiri Soares, Principal, Urban Assembly Institute of Math and Science for Young Women
MOUSE has provided life changing experiences for me that have added tremendously to my passion for technology… regardless of the company or industry, you will always need technology and the skills we learn... read more ›
– Leroy Tindi, MOUSE Squad Alum, Riverdale Kingsbridge Academy
We try to focus on career readiness, laying the foundation and opening their eyes to careers they might consider in the future. I tell my students that if they want to be... read more ›
– Matthew Valia, MOUSE Squad Coordinator, Berta A. Drefus School
MOUSE is an excellent example of rethinking how to put students at the center of their own learning and reorganizing schools around their motivations and strengths. read more ›
– Arthur VanderVeen, Chief of Innovation Strategy and Policy, NYC Department of Education
Through the CPS TechCrew program, I have learned how to explore computers, how to fix problems that are usually deferred to someone else, and what it's like to work on a team that... read more ›
– Simon Vecchioni, CPS TechCrew Member, Northside College Prep High School, Chicago
I believe strongly in public education and the opportunity it can and should provide to all. MOUSE provides a valuable service, closing the gap between heavily resourced schools and those in underserved areas. read more ›
– Peter Vincent, VP Human Resources, National Audubon Society
What excites me most about being part of this program is that I get to interact with other students who share the same goals and who hope to learn more on how to... read more ›
– Monique Williams, Chicago TechCrew Member, Tarkington School of Excellence
MOUSE taught me perspective, a way of working with people and how to think, speak and write in a professional way. read more ›
– Syed Zaidi, MOUSE Squad Alum, Baccalaureate School for Global Education
