Since the 2013-14 program year, the Research and Evaluation team has explored the relationship between engagement targets and the strength of pair relationships.  Every year, the data shows that pairs meeting these benchmarks have significantly stronger relationships (learn more about this research here).  Pairs are not held to the standard of meeting six times from the very beginning of the year, as this would be unreasonable and would not aid in managing pairs toward the target.  Instead, the benchmark gradually increases one meeting per month and stops at six.

In recent years, the program launch date has begun to vary more, meaning that some pairs are matched later in the school year and consequently have fewer opportunities to meet.  As such, the Research and Evaluation team worked with implementation stakeholders to develop a staggered benchmark schedule for in-person meetings in an effort to accommodate pairs with this circumstance.

What is the benchmark at different points in time? 

By the end of the year, the target is for pairs to meet at least five or six times, depending on their match date.  The graphic below shows what the in-person meeting benchmark is at each point in the year, based on pairs' match date.  (Targets change to the value displayed at the end of each month.)

How is progress toward this benchmark calculated?

Program Managers are accountable for getting 65% of their pairs to meet the in-person benchmark.  At any point in time, the percentage of pairs that have met or exceeded the current target is calculated as follows:

How can I manage pairs toward this benchmark?

There are a host of tools hosued in S.T.E.V.E. to help Program Mangers identify pairs to focus thier efforts in supporting pairs to meet the in-person benchmark.  Additionally, your manager, implementation colleagues and the Research and Evaluation team are great resources to collaborate with to develop strategies to increase pair meeting frequency!

Still have questions about what how in-person benchmarks work?  Click here to reach out to the Research and Evaluation team for support.