WHO ARE THE ENDORSERS AND WHAT IS THEIR ROLE?

COA prides itself on the caliber of its volunteer corps. These volunteers are an essential component of COA recognition. Our After School Endorsers make an extraordinary commitment to guarantee quality site visits. They are trained on COA's process and standards. Each Endorser dedicates themselves to each site visit they participate in. In addition to the interviews, record reviews and observations they conduct on site, time is spent becoming familiar with your program through a review of your Self-Study prior to visiting your program.

COA After School Endorsers are recruited and trained based on their experience in the after school field, education and commitment to promoting quality in after school programs.

When a team of Endorsers is sent to conduct a site visit, the Team is headed by a Lead Endorser. The Lead Endorsers are senior reviewers who have extensive experience with recognition and the site visit process and have demonstrated a true commitment to the purpose and goals of COA After School recognition.

In addition to reviewing the Self-Study prior to the site visit, the Lead Endorser manages and organizes all pre- and on-site activities. He or she serves as a mentor to other Endorsers, and is responsible for ensuring open communication between the team, the program, and COA.

The composition of Endorsers assigned to a site visit varies based on numerous factors. To learn more about the different types of teams that are assigned, and the factors considered, please look on the “What are the Different Types of Site Visit” page. In some cases, the Lead Endorser on-site is supported by a remote Endorser, rather than a second on-site Endorser. The remote Endorser conducts document review, and telephone interviews with stakeholders (such as parents and staff). The Lead onsite Endorser and remote Endorser communicate via telephone and email throughout the visit and work together to determine ratings, as appropriate. The remote Endorser will also be involved in meetings such as the exit meeting, via telephone. The number of program components (before school, am mid-day, pm mid-day, and after school care) will be taken into consideration when scheduling the number of on-site Endorsers to ensure adequate resources for a successful site visit.

In some cases, COA may send a Solo Endorser without a remote Endorser. This option is utilized in cases where COA feels it is appropriate and the quality of the site visit will not be compromised and the Endorser's workload will be manageable.

Onsite Endorsers also have access to an on-call COA staff member throughout the duration of the site visit for additional support and guidance, as needed.

It is our hope that your experience with these volunteers will inspire you to apply to become a COA After School Endorser!