DPI VISTA Project

The DPI VISTA Project aims to enhance student achievement and develop comprehensive and effective family-school-community partnership practices in low-income elementary and middle schools. The Project seeks to close the achievement gap between low-income and minority students and their peers. The project coordinators envisage positive effects for the whole school community, such as:

For Students

• Increased enrollment in more challenging academic programs
• More classes passed
• Better attendance, better social skills

For Parents

• More support from school and other parents
• Increased feeling of ownership of school
• Improved awareness of student progress

For Teachers

• More respect for families' strengths and efforts
• Heightened readiness to involve families in new ways
• Increased satisfaction with family involvement and support

The DPI VISTA Project provides eligible schools with three valuable resources:

• Full-time VISTA member (For up to 3 years to develop and sustain partnership practices)
• Trainings (On developing and creating a framework for effective partnership practices)
• Connections and Resources (From the DPI and from a network of hundreds of other Partnership Schools)

The DPI supports up to twenty VISTA members per year throughout Wisconsin at schools who serve a high proportion of low-income students. People interested in hosting or serving as VISTA members at these sites are encouraged to apply.

What is Our DPI VISTA Project All About?

What is AmeriCorps*VISTA?
What are the benefits of the program?
DPI VISTA Project Description.

Current Sites and Projects

Brief Descriptions of current DPI VISTA placements

How to Apply

Interested in BECOMING a VISTA Member?

Information for persons who are interested in serving in a low-income school or learning center as a VISTA member, and would like to find out more about applying.

Interested in HOSTING a VISTA Member?

If your school, school district, or community learning center serves a significant population of low-income families, and you believe that a positive impact can be made by having a VISTA member, this site provides information you need about eligibility, expectations, and the application process.

For more information, contact

Jane Grinde, Project Director
Phone: 608-266-9356
jane.grinde@dpi.wi.gov

Betsy Prueter, VISTA Leader
Phone: 608-267-7290
betsy.prueter@dpi.wi.gov

Or dial 800-441-4563, and request the above extensions

For questions about this information, contact Jane L. Grinde (608) 266-9356

Last updated on 2/25/2008 9:08:25 AM