Functions of the STARS Advisory Board

Provide both strategic and tactical inputs to the PIs and Project Managers to guide and strengthen the effective management and operation of Project STARS including resource development, etc.

Provide advice to the STARS project team and USF regarding the implementation of the NSF vision for the GK-12 Program in concert with USF vision.

Suggest new perspectives and programs for improving community awareness of and participation in Project STARS.

Any other matter(s) as deemed necessary by the Advisory Board or as may be determined by USF administration in support of Project STARS.

To accomplish these functions, the activities of the Advisory Board will focus on the following objectives: 

Resource Development and Sustainability

1.      Seeking external funding sources from e.g., financial institutions, NASA and like organizations to supplement or replace NSF funding

2.   Working with USF administration for internal support

3.  Working with the office of  the Provost and the office of Government Affairs to secure state funding for Project STARS  though a line item in the state budget

Institutionalization and Community Outreach

1.      Building stronger ties with the Hillsborough County School District to infuse math science and engineering/technology into the elementary curricula. 

2.  Helping to build bridges among various USF Colleges and units to make the concept of STARS part of USF academic culture.  

3.  Working with entities like the Children's board, the State Department of Education, and other similar entities to support local science and technology initiatives

Evaluation

1.      Providing feedback on key performance metrics

2.  Assessing the impact of project STARS as well as developing the appropriate tools/metrics to inform such assessment.