NAPAS : TEAMS Institute

Summer Finale Happy Faces 2

2011-07-16T18:02:00.003-05:00

Happy Faces During Our Summer Finale

2011-07-16T16:37:00.004-05:00

Summer Camp Finale

2011-07-01T18:18:00.004-05:00

Hundreds of parents, grandparents, friends, sisters, brothers and guardians came out on June 30 to witness the songs, dances and spoken word of the 100 plus students who attended our summer camp titled "Music, Movement and Math.

The program Master and Mistress of Ceremonies was Student Advisory Council President Alex and Council Member Miya. Vice President Gabby offered this stirring speech about TEAMS:

Welcome to TEAMS Institute ladies and gentlemen. My name is Gabby and I am Vice President of TEAMS Institute. What does TEAMS mean to me? The word TEAMS itself means Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Medicine and Science, but to me it means more than that. I love coming in everyday to see all my friends and also great teachers.

Mr. White is a great teacher, has patience and is also someone to come to for advice. Mr. Brown, he is funny, energetic, and has a lot of plans in store for us TEAMS students. He can also be very strict and scary, but he has a very good heart and is great with kids. Mr. Tavares is like my best friend, he’s helped me through a lot and to face my fear of singing out loud to people.

Like one of my good friends said, “Don’t waste your talent.” That’s very important to me, his words were inspiring and I’m trying harder to do what I love, which is sing. You see folks, TEAMS isn’t just about coming for a couple of hours to associate and have fun with friends, it’s also about going to learn about colleges and go on field trips to visit those colleges, because sooner or later time will fly by and we won’t be your little kids anymore.

TEAMS is a great place to go to if you need help with homework. TEAMS is a great little environment where everyone gets along, and were like a family. We've been through good times and bad times, thing is we’ve been through it together and not alone. Thank god for keeping all of us TEAMS students safe the other day we had a minor wreck. Gladly, no one was hurt and we were all able to make it home safely that very same day. Soon as we had bumped into each other, and suddenly stopped, I looked up and said to myself, Lord please let everyone be ok, and thank you god for it not being to serious. See folks god is good. The things he does for us. I love TEAMS like we were all a big family. That’s what its all about.

I enjoy coming to TEAMS to sing, to learn and to be ready for whatever Ms. Williams has planned for us. Thank you Ms. Williams for everything you do for us. I’m glad you have that kind of patience with us, even when we are bad. You do all you can for us to have a great time here at TEAMS and I just want to say Thank you from me and from all the TEAMS students and teachers who love you dearly. Thank you

Let's Move: TEAMS Summer Tips

2011-05-27T09:42:00.007-05:00

During the summer continue connecting to the family, fun, health and wellness campaign launched by the first Lady Michelle Obama and music artist Beyonce Knowles. Check out this video and learn the dance. Maybe a dance contest at the end of the summer???

TEAMS Youth Center Focus Group

2011-05-06T18:20:00.003-05:00

A focus group of staff, students and supporters gathered at the new TEAMS Youth Center to test out the new space and equipment. One student Noreli stated, "This is really impressive!". The focus group of attendees ranging in age from elders to tweens spent time sitting and chatting, spitting on the open-mic, dunking on the bball goal; challenging each other in air hockey and ping pong while chillin in the cafe area. "This is nice. We are excited about our new center!" exclaimed many of the students.

Those in attendance include Mayor Jill Holland, City of McKenzie; Coach Dino Kaklis, Bethel University; Shirley Moore, The Moore Farm; TC and NE Williams, Rosenwald Center; Noreli, Alex,Jalexis,Chris, DeJalyn, Gabriela, Nick, Kegan, Sierra, Chasidy, Darius, Julina, Elijah, Tyeisha, Eric, Marvin,Chris, Sanjuanita and Montrell.

TEAMS Supporters Experience New Center

2011-05-06T18:02:00.012-05:00

Extreme Makeover: TEAMS Home Edition, The Reveal

2011-03-17T11:43:00.004-05:00

In the great tradition of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" television, we offer
"the reveal" of our new space at TEAMS (and yes this is the part where we all jump up and down, scream and faint because we are exhanusted from working so hard but so overwhelmed with the beauty of the space, LOL).

Keep It Moving 3: TEAMS Extreme Makeover - Photo Journal

2011-03-17T11:23:00.006-05:00

Progress Day Celebration

2011-02-25T12:51:00.002-06:00

We sent this invitation out to our friends and family to invite everyone to come by for a sneak peek at our new home. Spread the word! Tuesday, March 1, 2011 doors open at 5pm the program starts at 6 pm.

Keep It Moving 2

2011-02-25T12:38:00.002-06:00

This is a progress photo of our work. In this photo we had cleaned, scrubbed, painted, pushed, pulled and posted pictures to make the place more like home. In this photo we are setting up our brain game zones at the center. Keep It Moving !!!

Keep It Moving

2011-02-25T12:25:00.003-06:00

Over the last few months, we have been moving our programming to a new location. We have conducted calls, meetings, painting, hauling, assembling, laughing and crying in rain, snow, sleet and heat to complete the opening of this new space. We are located at 1944 Cedar Street. This first post is a before photo of the space.

A Weekend of Service: Donor Spotlight

2011-01-15T15:02:00.012-06:00

We are so very grateful to Nashville Givecamp for helping us automate the records of our program. We produced and/or expanded databases for student records, reports and donations. Their contribution will save over 80 hours of staff time each month in data management. This will give us more time to spend with our students.

A team of creative geniuses and professionals laughed, talked, coded and shared a meal or two throughout the weekend of January 14. The professionals included Geoff Alday, Wendy Czymoch, Leah Gilliam, Ben Henderson, Gaines Kergosien, Shawn Lacroix,Chris McPherson,Patrick Schroeder, Marvin Palmer and Rebecca West.

We immensely enjoyed composing and playing our data melody with this team of caring and passionate artistic engineers.

For more information on Givecamp visit the website: http://givecamp.org/
For more information on Nashville Givecamp visit the website: http://nashvillegivecamp.org/

Mr. Jones Secures Contract

2011-01-15T14:50:00.003-06:00

Keith Jones, a loyal administrator and supporter of the TEAMS Institute has secured a contract to provide business management services to the Kroger Company.

He met with students at McKenzie High School in January to present his career journey and encourage them to continue their work with TEAMS. He has a business degree from Bethel University. He is currently pursuing his Masters in Business Administration from Bethel University.

We wish Mr. Jones much success in his new assignment. We look forward to his continued collaboration and support with the TEAMS Institute.

November December Progress: We Need Your Help

2010-12-09T23:22:00.005-06:00

Happy Holidays to you and your family. Highlights of our progress in November and December 2010 include the following:

The TEAMS Institute Clubs at McKenzie High School and McKenzie Middle School met once each month during homeroom as an advisory council to plan activities for the TEAMS Institute. The current officers (photo left to right) Vice President-Alex Cawthon; President-Noreli Mirna Mendez; Reporter-Ananceah Warren; Secretary/Treasurer-Herivia Strayhorn attended leadership training in Nashville, Tennessee.

The TEAMS Institute is preparing for our grand opening at our new location
We will continue our advisory meetings at the High School on December 7 at 11:00 am and at the Middle School on December 8 at 12:30 pm. Our advisors have set up volunteer groups to host our grand opening.

Continue to check your newspaper, mailbox and email for announcements of our grand opening of our TEAMS Institute center with more games, fun, homework help, college, career, vocational preparation, college tours and field trips.

WE NEED YOUR HELP. To prepare for our grand opening, volunteer opportunities will begin on December 14, 2010.

In preparation for our grand opening, please sign our support list, mail a letter to us at 135 Bells Store Road McKenzie TN 38201 or send a letter with your child to our school meetings to tell us why this TEAMS Institute afterschool program is important to your family and your child. You can also email your letter to srmwms@yahoo.com. Or record a comment at 731-415-2588.

On December 9, during the regular Board of Mayor and Council meeting of the City of McKenzie Tennesse, Ms. Williams, a member of the TEAMS Institute leadership group was unanimously approved by appointment to serve the city as a member on the McKenzie Park and Recreational Board.

We have identified and submitted proposals for funding that could potentially increase our funding to over half a million dollars.

Celebration Reaps Wishlist Gift

2010-11-12T13:55:00.006-06:00

A trickle turned into a stream of steady support as hundreds lent their voice and talent to celebrate afterschool and the TEAMS Institute on October 28 and 29 in the Green Hills and at Cafe Coco near Vanderbilt University. Student, staff, board, business and community leaders shared college tours, round table discussions, media airtime, poetry, music and song in support of afterschool. The event enabled us to locate a van for our students. Thank you to everyone that supported our programming.

Vanderbilt University
College Connection, Oasis Center
Tennessee State University
Belmont University
US Department of HUD
The Small Business Administration
WBBJ-TV
Mount Zion Baptist Church
101.5 FM
The Nashville Rescue Mission
Kevin Sandbloom ~ Acoustic Guitarist Los Angeles, California
Etchane Jackson ~ DJ Las Vegas, Nevada
Cicely Floyd ~ Neo-Jazz Inspirational Vocalist Nashville, Tennessee
Kenneth Dozier ~MC Nashville, Tennessee
Sheila & Cheryl Williams ~ Hosts
Kenneth Williams, Conference Moderator
Evelyn Parker, Board/Community Training Round tables Coordinator
Younger Associates
Cafe Coco
Osman Jalloh
Carter Moody
John Baldwin

Lights on Afterschool Celebration 2010

2010-11-12T00:53:00.006-06:00

Support Our Annual Fundraising Celebration

2010-10-07T22:25:00.008-05:00

SPEAK UP: An International Community Open-Mic Benefit
Friday 29 October 2010 8:00 pm
Café Coco
210 Louise Avenue
Nashville, TN 37203

Local poetry, spoken word, comedy, story-telling, music, and vocal artists with special guest performances by:

Kevin Sandbloom ~ Acoustic Guitarist Los Angeles, California
Etchane Jackson ~ DJ Las Vegas, Nevada
Cicely Floyd ~ Neo-Jazz Inspirational Vocalist Nashville, Tennessee
Kenneth Dozier ~MC Nashville, Tennessee
Sheila & Cheryl Williams ~ Hosts

Your $20 donation benefits the children of the TEAMS Institute
For more information about SPEAK UP call 615.299.9906

You're Invited to Our 30th Annual Benefit Conference

2010-10-07T22:19:00.009-05:00

Join children, parents, business and community leaders on October 28th and 29th to participate in Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide event to celebrate the importance of afterschool programs. Hosted by the TEAMS Institute, an afterschool program that offers technical and artistic educational and life-skill building activities for children and youth, the event will emphasize the importance of keeping the lights on and the doors open for afterschool programs across America.

Being held at various venues in Nashville, the events planned for the Lights On Afterschool rally include a tour of Colleges and financial aid on October 28, a fundraising workshop on October 29 at 10am at the Hampton Inn Green Hills, then concluding with the BENEFIT CONCERT at 8 pm at Cafe Coco.

To learn more about the TEAMS Institute, visit http://www.teamsinstitute.org

Our Year In Review

2010-08-09T11:53:00.004-05:00

Quarter one, July - Sept 2009
awarded 21st CCLC grant
conducted community outreach and service
prepared homework help and college career prep for students

Quarter two, Oct - Dec 2009
hired J Allen
hosted "Lights On Afterschool Celebration"
provided homework help, STEM enrichment and college career prep services

Quarter Three, Jan - March 2010
hired K. Jones, R. Taber, A.Feezor, S. Johnson
provided homework help, STEM enrichment and college career prep services
formed TEAMS Student Clubs and Advisory Boards at McKenzie Middle and High School
hosted dance drum auditions
hosted speakers for careers in surgery, government, human resources, civil engineering

Quarter Four, April - June 2010
hosted speakers for careers in massage, nursing, counseling, psychology, social work, automobile industry
hired K.Shivers, Simmons
provided homework help and college career prep for students
hosted summer camp with weekly themes of sports, the arts, entertainment and outdoor recreation
visited Tennessee Career Center
visited Casey Jones Railroad Museum, Chuck E. Cheese
visited Bethel University Pool
visited College Connection, Fisk University, Tennessee State University, Vanderbilt, Cheesecake Factory, Strike and Spare in Nashville, Tennessee
visited LeMoyne Owen College, Rhodes College, Incredible Pizza in Memphis, Tennessee
recorded television pilot of "22 and Bells Store" talent/college career prep show
trained Dance Team and Drum Line

The TEAMS Institute Co-President Wins Modeling Competition
McKenzie, TN – The Co-President of the TEAMS Institute Advisory Board in McKenzie was recently selected as the winner of the American Mall Model Search Competition in the Jackson area.

Mirna Noreli Mendez is a junior at McKenzie High School who enjoys singing and dancing. She hopes to attend Vanderbilt University in the future and is honored to be leading the program at the TEAMS Institute to provide college and career preparation as well as service learning opportunities for students.

The American Mall Model Search Competition is the nation’s largest scouting tour, producing models for fashion industry and promoting talent to the film industry. Founded in 1982, the AMMS has over 25 years of experience discovering young talent and launching new careers. As the Jackson area winner, Ms. Mendez was awarded a one-year modeling contract with Model Productions.

“I felt really surprised and excited when I was informed of my win and I am ready to start working. I feel honored to be able to represent McKenzie and the minority community,” stated Ms. Mendez.

The TEAMS Institute, an afterschool program that offers educational and life-skill building activities for student scholars, was designed for youth by youth. The club is open to all youth who are interested in college preparation, career training, community service, business leadership, real estate development and social networking.

Open to children in grades one through twelve, student scholars who attend the TEAMS Institute participate in classes concerning Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Medicine and Science (TEAMS).

Children attending the Institute have learned valuable life skills that help them in all aspects of their lives. They gain the confidence they need to excel socially and academically. The children who attend the Institute are performing better in the classroom and are learning how to give back to their community.

Funding for the Institute is provided by the State of Tennessee’s 21st Century Learning Center, a group that awards grants to organizations that provide academic enrichment activities designed to help students meet state and local standards. The TEAMS Institute was recently awarded a three-year grant from the 21st Century Learning Center to continue providing life-changing opportunities for the youth of Carroll County.

To learn more about the TEAMS Institute, visit teamsinstitute.org or call the center at 731.352.3377.

TEAMS Welcome Artistic Instructors

2010-06-17T01:56:00.000-05:00

2010-06-17T01:18:00.008-05:00

We are pleased to announce the addition of the following artistic instructors to the TEAMS Institute. They bring gifts and skills such as business, music, massage, gymnastics, cheerleading, dance, coaching, cosmetology and acting.

Our new members include: Keith Jones, Keshia Shivers, Becky King, Tamika Simmons and Shamaree Johnson.

10 ways to empower kids to cook

2010-05-30T17:00:00.000-05:00

Here are 10 things outside of showing them how to follow a recipe that you can do to help empower your kids to cook.

1. Make sure there is a sturdy step stool or chair for smaller children so they can reach counter height.
2. Teach measuring skills. Explain what the numbers and words on measuring cups and spoons mean and work with kids on mastering a quarter cup or a tablespoon.
MNN: Gift ideas for your green graduate
3. Get them their own cookbook. It doesn't have to be a kids' cookbook. It could be one that focuses on a food they like such as pasta or chicken. Or get a subscription to Chop Chop magazine, a new kids' cooking magazine that is really well done.
4. Take kids to the market -- the grocery store or the farmers market -- and let them choose ingredients for the recipes they want to make.
5. Teach kitchen safety. Show them how to wash hands thoroughly, handle knives properly (at the appropriate age, of course ), how to put knives safely out of the way, how to turn pot handles in so they don't stick out, how to check and make sure they've turned off the stove and the oven, and all the other things that prevent injuries in the kitchen.
6. Teach them to use kitchen tools (again, at appropriate ages). Cheese graters, garlic presses, mixers, blenders, and other gadgets really interest kids.
MNN: Panera Bread Co. takes a gamble on goodwill
7. Teach your kids where food comes from. Start a small garden. Take them to a farm to see cows that will eventually become beef or pigs that will eventually become bacon.
8. Once kids get past preschool, don't call things like "worms in the dirt" and "ants on a log" cooking. You don't have to do away with them, just let kids know those things aren't cooking.
9. As their skills improve, let them know which dishes you'll allow them to cook on their own without your supervision and which dishes they need to have a grown-up by their side to make.
10. Teach them to clean up after themselves. Making a mess is fine. Leaving a mess is not.

Excerpt from a blog by Robyn Shreeves, Mother Nature Network - http://www.mnn.com/food/healthy-eating-recipes/blogs/10-ways-to-empower-kids-to-cook

May 2010 Program Progress

2010-05-30T16:34:00.007-05:00

The total number of students served to date:
125 elementary, middle, and high school scholars

The communications between staff and school day teachers, parents, and partners:
We reviewed the homework journals that our scholars bring home from school each day. We also communicate by home visits, blogs, text messages, and other social media.

Examples of activities and services that have been provided:
Homework Help, Science Experiments, Engineering Building Simulations, Sand Art Design, Reed Flute Classes, Music Reading, Hip Hop Dance, Inertia Experiments, Making Weather Experiment, Drill Formation Basics, Business Correspondence, Tutoring, Skateboarding, Fitness, Social Media, Computer Robotics, Student Council, Culinary Certification, Interior Design, Public Speaking Community Service; Career Exploration; College/Career Passport Portfolios.

The impact the program has had on students and families:
Restored hope; strengthened leadership skills; provided income; expanded vision of possibilities for their future

Academic success stories attributed to program activities:
Dylan was failing four classes in January 2010. Presently, he is passing three classes.

Specific school data used to target improvement in each student’s academic success:
We are using teacher behavior surveys and grade reports. This data helps us identify the types of specific course tutors (i.e., reading) and social classes (sexual abuse awareness) to provide for our scholars. We stress the importance of completing homework and the power of simply showing up and taking advantage of free service to increase the quality of life.

The project staff/volunteers and professional development opportunities:
The program recorded approximately 186 volunteer hours and service by 5 staff and volunteers including Alex Cawthon, Tyeisha Haynes, Asia Allen, Octavia Moore, Keith Jones, Reginald Taber, Mumika Momelow, Dr. Chukwuogo; Dr. Barnhill, Patsy Anthony; Sheila Williams, Catherine True, Becky King, Evelyn Parker and a host of other professionals who provide services from housekeeping to tutoring to career exploration days. Professional Development activities have included the SEDL Teacher Training Modules, Child Abuse, Home Visit Training; Nutrition; Lesson Planning; Tutoring. April 22 the TEAMS Institute held a staff development day and training for summer session.

Partnerships and community collaboration activities:
Ag Extension-nutrition education; Carl Perkins Center-child abuse; Carroll County Interagency Taskforce – coordination and networking of youth services; career exploration speakers representing organizations such as the McKenzie Regional Hospital; Tennessee Department of Transportation and others.

Mayor Winchester Inducts TEAMS Institute Officers

2010-03-25T06:16:00.003-05:00

McKenzie, TN – The meeting room at Lakeside Senior Living Center was filled with excitement as newly elected board members and officers of the McKenzie High School TEAMS Institute Club prepared for their induction ceremony and banquet.
Prior to the induction, the group engaged in team building exercises and listened to words of wisdom on life, college and career from their elders that included Walter Winchester, Mayor of McKenzie, Tennessee, Judy Vestal of the Workforce Investment Area Office and Jenny Pearson of the Carroll County Juvenile Court.
Ms. Williams, Director of the TEAMS Institute, an afterschool program that offers educational and life-skill building activities for student scholars, provided an overview of the club and applauded the hard work of the group to design an organization “for youth and by youth”. She state, “The group decided to design a club open to all youth who are interested in college preparation, career training, community service, business leadership, real estate development and social networking.”

Mayor Winchester discussed career opportunities with the government in general while putting special emphasis on working for McKenzie or Carroll County. Ms. Vestal shared job training and career readiness services available through her agency. Ms. Pearson summed up the intent of all the speakers when she stated, “We are available as a listening ear and a resource of information to enable you to create a successful life as well as to help you solve personal and family concerns.”
The duly elected officers were presented to the elders and their peers. The officers included Co-Presidents Katie Lopez and Noreli Mirna Mendez, Vice President Breonna Oglesby, Secretary/Treasurer Breonna Buckley, and Recorder Jessica Quinn. After each officer lit a candle they were reminded that light represents the collective wisdom and true fellowship of the organization and the commitment to welcome with warmth all interested participants. Mayor Winchester then led the group in reciting the oath of office.

Open to children in grades one through twelve, student scholars who attend the TEAMS Institute participate in classes concerning Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Medicine and Science (TEAMS).

Children attending the Institute have learned valuable life skills that help them in all aspects of their lives. They gain the confidence they need to excel socially and academically. The children who attend the Institute are performing better in the classroom and are learning how to give back to their community.
Funding for the Institute is provided by the State of Tennessee’s 21st Century Learning Center, a group that awards grants to organizations that provide academic enrichment activities designed to help students meet state and local standards. The TEAMS Institute was recently awarded a three-year grant from the 21st Century Learning Center to continue providing life-changing opportunities for the youth of Carroll County.

January 2010 Program Progress

2010-02-01T21:16:00.002-06:00

The following actions have taken place since the last board meeting.

a. Continued marketing of program, products and services
b. Continued conference planning
c. Sent finance documents to treasurer
d. Processed invoices
e. Compiled and distributed teleconference minutes
f. Provided updates via phone and email to board members
g. Attend First Aid/CPR class certificate
h. Compile volunteer hours
i. Attach correspondence with regular school day teachers and student homework journal to checklist
j. Implement Monday huddle
k. Add pledge to student schedule
l. Locate culinary certification, algebra and geometry tutors
m. Conduct intake surveys with students
n. Discuss and design Teen Programming with high school group
o. Letters to families to update student files
p. Continued outreach and recruitment of students and volunteers
q. Mailed letters to HR department and guidance counselors
r. Expanded local advisory group
s. Print tutor training documents
t. Order college t-shirts and flags for classrooms
u. Attend CACFP training
v. Research driving school requirements at McKenzie High School
w. Served 75 scholar clients
x. Conducted site visit and teleconference with DOE officials
y. Began submittal of a grant

November 2009 Program Progress

2009-11-02T22:54:00.003-06:00

Listed below is a summary of finance, recruitment, program, public relations, and logistic activities that have recently occurred on the project.

a. continued marketing of program, products and services
b. confirmed conference reunion site
c. sent finance documents to treasurer
d. processed invoices
e. continued technical assistance to 3 organizations
f. compiled and distributed teleconference minutes
g. continued reunion conference planning
h. hired, trained additional staff
i. met with Associated Builders and Contractors
j. continued Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) application process
k. signed memorandum of understanding with grant writer
l. provided update via phone to board members
m. compiled 99 volunteer hours
n. attended McKenzie School Board meeting
o. confirmed uniforms, curriculum, transportation, records system, payroll,space planning
p. distributed flyers and postcards
q. appeared on Good Morning West Tennessee
r. confirmed Parker outreach to elected officials
s. planned marketing strategy with Younger
t. updated website
u. conducted Lights on Afterschool Celebration
v. recorded service to 51 citizens
w. attended 21st CCLC meeting in Lebanon, TN

Mayor Winchester Presents Proclamation to TEAMS Institute

2009-11-02T22:25:00.004-06:00

McKenzie, TN – A steady stream of children, parents, business and community leaders recorded their support for afterschool on October 29th during the Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide event to celebrate the importance of afterschool programs.

Excitement filled the air as the Honorable Walter Winchester, Mayor of McKenzie, Tennessee and a frequent TEAMS volunteer highlighted the benefits of afterschool and the need for continued volunteer and financial support of the TEAMS Institute of McKenzie, an afterschool program that offers educational and life-skill building activities for children and youth.

DJ Reggie filled the building with a diversity of music to create a festive atmosphere. “This house is awesome. This is a great place to do my homework and have fun”, stated student Stephen as he toured the building. Alexis Lane, student at McKenzie High School served as Mistress of Ceremonies for the formal ceremony. She stated, “This afterschool program exposed me to leadership opportunities that launched my service as a Student council officer at McKenzie Middle School and my continued academic success at McKenzie High School.”

The crowd moved to the music provided by the Jamaica Me Happy Steel Drum Percussion Ensemble from the University of Tennessee at Martin, under the direction of Dr. Julie Hill. Evelyn Parker, TEAMS Institute Program Board Co-chair shared the success stories of afterschool in Carroll County stating that over 90% of participants expressed satisfaction with the program and provided jobs for citizens of the community. Members of the audience reinforced her statistics through personal testimony of the positive impact of afterschool in Carroll County through an increase in grades to self confidence.

Mayor Winchester presented a proclamation from the City of McKenzie to Director Sheila Williams, declaring October 29 “Lights On Afterschool Day”. At the conclusion of the program, young children reached for the succulent organic fruit sculptures, salads, natural free range sliders, wings and burrito entrees catered by Joanna Allen, TEAMS staff person.

Open to children and youth ages six to eighteen, students who attend the TEAMS Institute participate in classes concerning Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Medicine and Science (TEAMS).

Funding for the Institute is provided by the State of Tennessee’s 21st Century Learning Center, a group that awards grants to organizations that provide academic enrichment activities designed to help students meet state and local standards. The TEAMS Institute, which was founded in 2008, was recently awarded a three-year grant from the 21st Century Learning Center to continue providing life-changing opportunities for the youth of Carroll County.

To register your child for afterschool at the TEAMS Institute, visit teamsinstitute.org or call the center at 731.352.3377, after 3 pm Monday through Thursday.

TEAMS Institute Headquarters

2009-10-13T20:58:00.009-05:00

We are excited about our new location at Bells Store Road. We are currently housing our programs in this structure with six rooms and three restrooms. The support amenities include a kitchen with stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and a laundry area with washer/dryer. Our six rooms will serve as "studios of excellence" utilizing high quality equipment. Our new facility will allows us to continue to provide an atmosphere of creativity, empowerment and education while serving our community.

Celebrate Afterschool Programming with the TEAMS Institute October 29

2009-10-13T08:08:00.008-05:00

McKenzie, TN – Children, parents, business and community leaders will join on October 29th to participate in Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide event to celebrate the importance of afterschool programs. Hosted by the TEAMS Institute of McKenzie, an afterschool program that offers educational and life-skill building activities for children, the event will emphasize the importance of keeping the lights on and the doors open for afterschool programs across America.

In collaboration with the McKenzie Special School District and the Afterschool Alliance, the TEAMS Institute has chosen to hold the event to shed light on the growing problem of funding being cut for afterschool programs around the country. Tight budgets are forcing many programs to cut back or even close their doors, leaving the 14.3 million children without afterschool care either home alone or out on the streets where they can be exposed to crime or engage in dangerous behaviors.

“We know that afterschool programs keep children safe, inspire them to learn, and relieve working parents of worries about how their children spend their afternoons,” said Evelyn Parker, TEAMS Institute Program Board Co-Chair. “The Lights On Afterschool program celebrates the remarkable work being done by students who attend the TEAMS Institute afterschool program.”

Open to children between the ages of six and eighteen, students who attend the TEAMS Institute participate in classes concerning Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Medicine and Science (TEAMS).

Children attending the Institute have learned valuable life skills that help them in all aspects of their lives. They gain the confidence they need to excel socially and academically. The children who attend the Institute are performing better in the classroom and are learning how to give back to their community.

“The TEAMS Institute afterschool program permits students who need extra attention and assistance to keep up with their peers by having the opportunity to receive this help. The program also provides a place for students to safely remain until they are united with their working parents or guardians. I fully endorse the TEAMS Institute in McKenzie,” stated Walter Winchester, the Mayor of McKenzie and a frequent TEAMS Institute volunteer.

Being held at 135 Bells Store Road, the events planned for the Lights On Afterschool rally include a tour of the Institute, games, music and a question and answer period with local leaders and state representatives.

Funding for the Institute is provided by the State of Tennessee’s 21st Century Learning Center, a group that awards grants to organizations that provide academic enrichment activities designed to help students meet state and local standards. The TEAMS Institute, which was founded in 2008, was recently awarded a three-year grant from the 21st Century Learning Center to continue providing life-changing opportunities for the youth of Carroll County.

To learn more about the Lights On Afterschool rally or the TEAMS Institute, visit teamsinstitute.org or call the center at 731.352.3377.

Our Children and Math Studies

2009-10-11T22:55:00.002-05:00

One of the goals of the TEAMS Institute is to encourage all of our children to excel in math and science. Please view below the PBS program To The Contrary that discusses a new study that finds girls and boys are equals in math. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVlyJi5hwhA&feature=related.

New Staff Member Joins TEAMS in October

2009-10-11T22:38:00.002-05:00

Join us in welcoming our new team member Joanna Allen to the TEAMS Institute. Ms. Allen is a recent graduate with degrees in M.A.T. Edu and the M.B.A. She will be serving as our youth facilitator.

September 2009 Program Progress

2009-10-11T22:12:00.002-05:00

Supporter of the TEAMS Institute, listed below is a summary of finance, recruitment, program, public relations, and logistic activities that have recently occurred on the project.

a. launched 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) grant
b. solicited additional staff
c. continued marketing of program, products and services
d. short listed conference reunion site
e. sent finance documents to treasurer
f. processed invoices
g. continued technical assistance to 3 organizations
h. compiled and distributed teleconference minutes
i. updated Giving Matters profile
j. replied to IRS inquiry
k. renewed Northwest Tennessee Council on Children and Youth (NWTCCY) membership
l. continued Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) application process
m. created collaboration with grant writer
n. provided update via phone to board members
o. compiled 99 volunteer hours

Why We Exist

2009-07-21T22:40:00.005-05:00

The link below is a great resource for more information on the genesis of the TEAMS concept.
Career Voyages In Demand Magazine:
This issue highlights careers in Science-Technology-Engineering-Math (STEM).
http://www.careervoyages.gov/pdf/indemandmagazine-stem.pdf

21st CCLC Summer Institute

2009-07-21T22:31:00.003-05:00

Below is a synopsis of a recent conference hosted by one of our major funders.

The 21st CCLC program represents more than 1 billion dollars of federal investment in academic enrichment for children, particularly those students that attend high-poverty, low-performing schools. The 2009 Summer Institute met its primary objective to provide its participants with a professional development opportunity that will assist them in the design and implementation of high-quality afterschool programs for America's children.
Sylvia E. Lyles, Ph.D
Program Director
Academic Improvement Programs Group.

The Summer Institute kicked off with an all-day Management Preconference Session for State Coordinators and 21st CCLC Program Directors. Day two included a panel discussion and community forum where infusing service learning activities in 21st CCLC programs was discussed. During the general session, Elizabeth Warner, Chair, IES, U.S. Department of Education, Robert Granger, President of the William T. Grant Foundation, Fred Doolittle, Vice President of MDRC and Robert Stonehill, Chief Program Officer at Learning Point Associates, spoke to a crowd of over 2200 afterschool professionals on Expanded Program Knowledge through Research. Afterwards, Black Violin and ReadNex Poetry Squad, reminded us of the 21st CCLC mission through the power of the spoken word and music.

The day culminated with a wonderful networking reception, emceed by Felicia Watson, Director of the NY 21st CCLC Statewide TAC where seven 2009 Afterschool Student Ambassadors were named. Coordinator and organizer of the student ambassador piece, Monique McDowell of the Bronx, NY, worked with the Department of Education, students and their families for weeks leading up to the Summer Institute. The Department of Education will track the students for 1 year and will solicit their ideas and feedback on improvements to the program. The student ambassadors represented California, Kansas, Montana, New York, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Texas. Congratulations!

Day three began with a discussion on inclusion: "Where Everyone Belongs". Experts, such as Keith Jones, President of SoulTouchin' Experience in Somerville, MA; Viviana Hernandez, Program Specialist at Primetime Program in San Diego, CA; and, Mary Shea, Project Consultant with Kids Included Together in San Diego, CA. stressed the importance on including ALL children in afterschool. Establishing and Sustaining Effective Partnerships with the Community and Public Sector was the topic of a panel headed by Lisa K. Proctor of the JCPenney Afterschool Fund in Plano, Texas.The Summer Institute culminated with a panel discussion on The Future of Early Childhood Education with experts from the Department of Education of Washington, DC; Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN; the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta in Atlanta, GA; Topeka Public Schools of Topeka, KS; and, The Center for Teacher Education at the University of Delaware in Newark, DE.

According to Sylvia E. Lyles, all conference/presentation materials were very intentional to show where the Department of Education is heading. Service learning, research, inclusion, partnerships/collaboration and early childhood were the salient topics throughout the conference.

July Program Progress

2009-07-21T21:42:00.004-05:00

Greetings Friends of the TEAMS Institute. Listed below is a summary of finance, recruitment, program, public relations, and logistic activities that have recently occurred on the project.

a. conducted memorial service for longtime supporter
b. review hotel proposals for conference
c. attended 3 ONE Group training sessions
d. compiled and distributed meeting minutes
e. provided updates via phone to board members
f. attended 21st Century Community Learning Center conference
g. received grant award from the Department of Education
h. compiled 567 volunteer hours for May and June

In Memoriam: Nathaniel Turhan Williams

2009-07-21T21:38:00.005-05:00

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our dear brother and avid program supporter Nathaniel Turhan Williams.

Nathaniel Turhan Williams joined the circle of the ancestors on June 10, 2009 after a brief illness at the age of 52. Memorial services were held on June 16 in Nashville, Tennessee and June 17 in Bethel Springs, Tennessee.

Nathaniel Turhan Williams affectionately known as “Nate” and “Tyrone” by his friends, was a gifted man of the spirit who was a carpenter, certified welder, visual artist, vocalist, athlete, and lover of people. He was fun-loving, compassionate, courteous, and made friends easily. He never met a stranger and was a loving son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, and cousin.

His legacy of care, concern, and compassion for his fellow human beings will be continued in the efforts of the TEAMS Institute. Send your memorial donations to NAPAS at Youthbuild TEAMS Institute, 135 Bells Store Road, McKenzie, TN 38201.

May 2009 Volunteer Meter

2009-05-13T20:45:00.006-05:00

Due to the generous time and talent of our friends and supporters, we have logged more than 600 volunteer hours to date for 2009. Keep up the good work toward the mission of TEAMS.

TEAMS Institute Expanding Impact in West Tennessee

2009-05-13T20:39:00.007-05:00

McKenzie, TN – “Achieving academic and social success through leadership development, career, employment, college and vocational training opportunities.” This is the mission and goal of the TEAMS Institute located in McKenzie, Tennessee. By offering educational and life-skill building activities to at-risk youth, the TEAMS Institute is making a difference in the lives of many. Open to children between the ages of five and eighteen, students attending the Institute participate in classes concerning Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Medicine and Science (TEAMS).

Many children attending the Institute have learned valuable life skills that help them in all aspects of their lives. They gain the confidence they need to excel socially and academically. The children who attend the Institute are performing better in the classroom and are learning how to give back to their community.

“The TEAMS Institute after school program permits students who need extra attention and assistance to keep up with their peers by having the opportunity to receive this help. The program also provides a place for students to safely remain until they are united with their working parents or guardians. I fully endorse the TEAMS Institute in McKenzie,” stated Walter Winchester, the Mayor of McKenzie and a frequent TEAMS Institute volunteer.

As a result of the successful impact the TEAMS Institute is having in Carroll County, the minds behind the Institute are in the process of starting a chapter of YouthBuild. YouthBuild is a nationwide organization that allows low-income young people to work toward their GED or high school diploma while learning job skills, which lead to a pre-apprentice certification. The skills taught will range from construction and manufacturing to teaching and tutoring. Most YouthBuild chapters participate in the construction of affordable housing for homeless or low-income people. While learning valuable skills, participants are also exposed to positive examples of leadership and service to others.

Seventy-six percent of YouthBuild participants nationwide have gone on to be placed in jobs or participate in post-secondary educational courses. Carroll County’s chapter has hopes of achieving or even exceeding that statistic through the support and commitment of area residents.

Area youth that are interested in either the TEAMS Institute or the YouthBuild program can find applications at teamsinstitute.org or by calling the center at 731.415.2588.

To help these organizations continue to make a difference, private donations and volunteers are always needed. Volunteer and donation information can be found at teamsinstitute.org. In addition to traditional fundraising activities, the sponsors of the TEAMS Institute and YouthBuild also sell collections of ethnic clip art for use in publications and advertisements and MiEssence cosmetic and bodycare products. For more details, visit twinataa.com/svpub2.html or luscious.mionegroup.com.

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May 2009 Program Progress

2009-05-13T19:46:00.007-05:00

Greetings Friends of the TEAMS Institute. Listed below is a summary of finance, recruitment, program, public relations, and logistic activities that have recently occurred on the project.

a. submitted four proposals for funding

b. set up new FREE conference call account.

c. began evaluation and planning of NAPAS Reunion host

d. forwarded blog link to Minister P. Cooper

e. attended 3 ONE Group product sale teleconferences

f. attended one YouthBuild teleconference

g. compiled and distributed meeting minutes

h. forwarded attendance software information to D. Williams

i. updated Collaboration Group on submission of grants

j. recruited new board member Kenneth Williams, Kenneth Williams and Associates, Mr. Williams (no relation to S. Williams) expertise Federal, State, Local Government Funding, Grants and Contracts

k. circulated press release announcing student registration on-line

l. discussed audit strategy with accountant at Vanderbilt University

m. replied to IRS employee question

n. provided updates via phone to board members

o. recommended TEAMS Institute as non-profit to be sponsored by ONE Group

p. attended NIA Meeting

q. met with A. James to discuss non-profit planning assistance

r. met with R. Johnson to discuss non-profit planning assistance

s. met with potential ONE Group Representative

Also view the recent blog additions for History of Collaborators and Affiliations with the TEAMS Institute.

April Meeting

2009-03-24T15:45:00.002-05:00

Mark your calendar for our next teleconference update scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 7:30 pm CST.

March Melody

2009-03-22T00:08:00.006-05:00

"I do think it's not asking too much for you to engage those among you who are visionary and remove from your life whose who offer you depression, despair and disrespect."
Nikki Giovanni

This is the first post of our progress on the rhythm of the TEAMS Institute. We will publish this update every other month for your information.
Completed action items are as follows:

* requested $1.1 million in funding to date in 2009
* continued development of YouthBuild
* attended Child Advocacy Days sponsored by the Tennessee Commission On Children and Youth
* convened meeting about Learn and Serve partners
* met with Senator Lowe Finney
* expanded insurance coverage
* created addition to logo
*distributed request for conference host
* registered with TechSoup Stock
* attended NYLC conference hosted by Volunteer Tennessee
*purchased Giftworks
*reviewed marketing plan from Younger Associates
* forwarded timesheet template to board members