DoDI DoD STARBASE Program.pdf

DOD INSTRUCTION 1025.07

DOD STARBASE PROGRAM

Originating Component: Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

Effective: January 15, 2021

Releasability: Cleared for public release. Available on the Directives Division Website at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.

Reissues and Cancels: DoD Directive 1025.07, “Department of Defense STARBASE Program,”

September 14, 2000

Approved by: Matthew P. Donovan, Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and

Readiness

Purpose: In accordance with the authority in DoD Directive 5124.02 and pursuant to Section 2193b of Title 10, United States Code (U.S.C.), this issuance:

• Establishes policy, assigns responsibilities, and provides direction for the DoD STARBASE Program.

• Describes the program’s goals, the responsibilities of implementing officials, and the relationships between Federal, State, and local governments, non-profit organizations, corporations, or individuals in the private sector in support of the DoD STARBASE Program.

DoDI 1025.07, January 15, 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DOD STARBASE PROGRAM

Section 1: General Issuance Information

1.1. Applicability

1.2. Policy

Section 2: Responsibilities

2.1. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs (ASD(M&RA)). 4

2.2. Secretaries of the Military Departments

2.3. Chief, NGB

Section 3: Procedures

3.1. DoD STARBASE Program Establishment Request

3.2. Approval to Establish and Operate a DoD STARBASE Program

3.3. DoD STARBASE Program Management

3.4. DoD STARBASE Program Structure and requirements

3.5. DoD STARBASE Program Evaluation

3.6. DoD STARBASE Program Support Termination

Section 4: Academy Personnel

4.1. Basic DoD STARBASE Staff

4.2. Advanced STARBASE 2.0 Staff

4.3. Use of Military Personnel

4.4. Use of Contractor Personnel

4.5. USE OF VOLUNTEER PERSONNEL

Section 5: STARBASE Core Curriculum

5.1. Curriculum

5.2. Mandatory Classroom Instruction

5.3. Curriculum Review and Approval Process

Section 6: STARBASE Performance Level Descriptions

6.1. Details and Criteria of the Performance Assessment System

6.2. Level I: The Basic, Fully Operating Location

6.3. Level II: The Advanced Performing Location

6.4. Level III: A High Performing Location

Glossary G.1. Acronyms G.2. Definitions

References

SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION 3

SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION

1.1. APPLICABILITY.

This issuance applies to OSD, the Military Departments, the Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Joint Staff, the Combatant Commands, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Defense, the Defense Agencies, the DoD Field Activities, and all other organizational entities within the DoD (referred to collectively in this issuance as the “DoD Components”).

1.2. POLICY.

It is DoD policy that:

a. The goal of the DoD STARBASE Program is to raise the interest and improve the knowledge and skills of youth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by exposing them to the technological environment and positive role models found on military bases and installations.

b. Any school district (public or private), alternative educational provider, or individual or group of home-schooling families may apply to participate in DoD STARBASE Program academies.

c. In accordance with Section 2193b of Title 10, U.S.C., the Secretary of Defense, the Secretaries of the Military Departments, and the Chief, National Guard Bureau (NGB), may accept financial and other support (e.g., equipment and personnel support) for the DoD STARBASE Program from other departments and agencies of the Federal Government, State governments, local governments, non-profit organizations, and corporations or individuals in the private sector.

d. Selection of DoD STARBASE Program participants will actively encourage participation of at-risk youth and youth who are historically underrepresented in science, math, and technology fields. Other factors may include selecting classes on the basis of socio-economic factors and areas of historically low academic performance.

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 4

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1. ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR MANPOWER AND RESERVE

AFFAIRS (ASD(M&RA)).

Under the authority, direction, and control of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, the ASD(M&RA):

a. Oversees compliance with the requirements of this issuance among the DoD Components that establish a DoD STARBASE Program.

b. Directs the exchange of information about issues, research, and academies related to the DoD STARBASE Program among relevant offices in the DoD Components.

c. Prepares an annual report for Congress on the DoD STARBASE Program pursuant to Section 2193b of Title 10, U.S.C. This report will contain a discussion of the design and conduct of the program as well as an evaluation of its effectiveness. The report will provide information regarding DoD STARBASE Program goals and measurable achievements, DoD STARBASE Program expenditures, and the number of students and classes served.

d. Prepares DoD STARBASE Program budget estimate submissions for the DoD Budget Request to the Congress, provides DoD STARBASE Program budget guidance to the DoD STARBASE Program academies, and reviews and approves annual program budgets for implementing the DoD STARBASE Program.

e. Establishes and appoints a coordinator for requirements, assessment, and curriculum, to assist with the implementation and development of policies, guidelines, program initiatives, steering committees, and site curriculum evaluations.

f. Develops policies and guidelines for DoD STARBASE Program management on military installations and facilities.

g. Establishes eligibility criteria for participation in the DoD STARBASE Program.

h. Requires that DoD STARBASE Program operating and training materials are developed in accordance with this issuance.

i. Provides for annual training for DoD STARBASE Program personnel.

j. Annually evaluates the operation, administration, and effectiveness of the overall DoD STARBASE Program and the individual DoD STARBASE Program academies for compliance, costs, and performance objectives.

2.2. SECRETARIES OF THE MILITARY DEPARTMENTS.

The Secretaries of the Military Departments that implement a DoD STARBASE Program will:

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 5

a. Designate a Federal program manager in their respective Military Service components to implement and assist with the administration of the DoD STARBASE Program in accordance with this issuance and DoD Instruction (DoDI) 1402.05.

b. Forward DoD STARBASE Program budget requests to the Office of the ASD(M&RA) (OASD(M&RA)) in accordance with budget guidance issued to the Military Departments by the

OASD(M&RA).

c. Forward matters of conflict from the Military Services that may arise while operating a DoD STARBASE Program to the OASD(M&RA) for resolution.

d. Establish, as necessary, supplemental implementing regulations and procedures in accordance with and consistent with this issuance, after coordination with OASD(M&RA).

e. Audit each STARBASE academy for fiscal and real property accountability no less than once every 3 years.

2.3. CHIEF, NGB.

For State National Guard components that implement a DoD STARBASE Program, the Chief, NGB will:

a. Designate a Federal program manager in the NGB to implement and assist with the administration of the DoD STARBASE Program in accordance with this issuance and DoDI 1402.05.

b. Forward DoD STARBASE Program budget requests to the OASD(M&RA) in accordance with budget guidance issued to the Chief, NGB by the OASD(M&RA).

c. Forward matters of conflict from the National Guard Adjutant Generals that may arise while operating a DoD STARBASE Program to the OASD(M&RA) for resolution.

d. Establish, as necessary, supplemental implementing guidance and procedures in accordance with and consistent with this issuance, after coordination with OASD(M&RA).

e. Designate the U.S. Property and Fiscal Officer (USPFO) for the respective State to receive and account for all DoD STARBASE funds allocated by the ASD(M&RA). The USPFOs will be responsible for reimbursing States for allowable and reasonable costs associated with obligation of funding. USPFOs with a DoD STARBASE site in their State will audit each STARBASE academy for fiscal and real property accountability no less than once every 3 years.

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 6

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES

3.1. DOD STARBASE PROGRAM ESTABLISHMENT REQUEST.

Commanders in the DoD Components desiring to establish a DoD STARBASE Program will submit a request to the ASD(M&RA) through their respective Military Service component or NGB STARBASE Federal program manager, containing:

a. Evidence of installation local school liaison, local school district and community support for establishing a DoD STARBASE Program.

b. A commitment to provide and maintain adequate dedicated facilities and utilities, such as classrooms for instruction, office space, and storage for supplies and equipment, to support a DoD STARBASE Program. The adequacy of proposed facilities will be determined by the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager.

c. An estimated 3-year operating budget, including any first year start-up costs.

d. The Military Service component’s installation or wing commander’s approval for the DoD STARBASE Program’s establishment. The State Adjutant General’s approval will be required for the DoD STARBASE Program’s establishment on a National Guard facility.

3.2. APPROVAL TO ESTABLISH AND OPERATE A DOD STARBASE PROGRAM.

a. The ASD(M&RA) may name and federally fund a new DoD STARBASE Program if:

(1) Operation and maintenance, Defense-wide appropriations funds are available to support a new DoD STARBASE Program. Additionally, the sponsoring Military Department or NGB may certify that it can fund a new program, or the program can operate in accordance with this issuance, but without any DoD funding. If not supported by DoD funding, the implementing organizations must still adhere to the policies and requirements in this issuance, and will utilize approved DoD STARBASE curriculum, in order to be called DoD STARBASE.

(2) In the case of competing applications, the ASD(M&RA) will select the proposed DoD STARBASE Program based on availability and amount of requested funding, likelihood for long-term success and financial support, strong evidence of community support, and other criteria as deemed appropriate by the OASD(M&RA).

b. Once selected to operate a DoD STARBASE Program, the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager will notify the installation or wing commander through the Military Department concerned or NGB STARBASE Program Manager, as the case may be. The OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager will provide the standards, objectives, and activities (SOA); a curriculum implementation guide; an approved DoD STARBASE curriculum in accordance with the guidelines of Section 5; and a DoD STARBASE new site orientation tool.

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 7

3.3. DOD STARBASE PROGRAM MANAGEMENT.

The DoD STARBASE Program Manager at the Military Service component or NGB level manages and administers a DoD STARBASE Program comprising one or more DoD STARBASE Program academies. The DoD STARBASE Program Manager will:

a. Prepare, review, and forward an annual budget request for each DoD STARBASE Program academy to the OASD(M&RA).

b. Oversee conduct of an audit for fiscal and real property accountability on each DoD STARBASE Program academy no less than every 3 years.

c. Oversee DoD STARBASE Program funds and equipment management.

d. Review requests from commanders desiring to establish a DoD STARBASE Program and forward them to the OASD(M&RA), with a recommendation for or against approval.

e. Annually report all non-DoD financial or other support provided to a DoD STARBASE Program to the OASD(M&RA).

3.4. DOD STARBASE PROGRAM STRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS.

The DoD STARBASE Program is a 12-month, year-round program. Section 2193b of Title 10, U.S.C., authorizes the DoD STARBASE Program to improve the knowledge and skills of students in kindergarten through 12th grade in STEM. The DoD STARBASE Program academies currently operate with either a basic or an advanced structure.

a. Basic DoD STARBASE Program.

A basic DoD STARBASE Program operates with elementary students at the host location, usually at the 5th grade level, and can be broken down into two phases — during the normal school year and outside the normal school year. During the school year, DoD STARBASE Program academies provide 25 hours of instruction per classroom using the approved DoD STARBASE core curriculum. Outside the normal school year schedule, DoD STARBASE Program academies also provide supplemental classes.

(1) Target Grade Level.

The basic DoD STARBASE Program focuses on providing STEM instruction primarily to 5th graders. Local school district administrators or other alternative education providers may determine that students from the 4th or 6th grade may also benefit from STEM instruction and therefore can be included on an exception basis, approved by the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager.

(2) DoD STARBASE Class Requirements.

Each DoD STARBASE class must meet these requirements:

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 8

(a) Size must be between 20 and 35 students during the school year. Supplemental classes must be between 15 and 35 students.

(b) Instruction will be provided by either two program instructors, one of whom may also be a deputy director, or a program instructor and an instructor assistant. There must be two STARBASE personnel in one classroom providing team teaching. The ASD(M&RA) will approve exceptions to this policy on a case-by-case basis.

(3) Program Operating Tempo.

On an annual basis, within each DoD STARBASE Program academy, each STARBASE unit of an instructor pair and classroom will conduct at least 30 classes during the school year, each comprising 25 classroom contact hours over 5 days. In addition, each classroom unit is responsible for providing at least 2 weeks of classroom contact hours (20-25 hours per week) over schools’ vacation breaks. Priority should be given to providing a DoD STARBASE Program opportunity to military dependents at the hosting facility.

(4) Community Outreach.

When not in classroom sessions, DoD STARBASE Program academies will perform at least four community outreach activities in the form of workshops, fostering community partnerships, and teacher training periods. These additional periods of instruction will not count as part of the requirement for 25 classroom contact hours, but instead as community awareness in the DoD STARBASE Program 12-month schedule. The purpose of these outreach activities will be to develop and enrich strategic partnerships with other community STEM partners. They should focus on strengthening existing relationships and work to develop new connections between educational entities, employers, and the communities in which they are embedded, in order to build STEM ecosystems that broaden and enrich a learner’s journey.

(5) Requirements to Operate a Basic DoD STARBASE Program.

A basic DoD STARBASE Program must:

(a) Have written standard operating procedures for operating the DoD STARBASE Program academy in a military facility.

(b) Have an employee manual that outlines procedures for DoD STARBASE Program personnel and procedures on using voluntary support.

(c) Maintain necessary memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with appropriate organizations.

(d) Annually report information regarding DoD STARBASE Program goals and their measurable achievements, academy expenditures, and number of students and classes to the OASD(M&RA) no later than 30 days after the end of the fiscal year.

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 9

(e) In coordination with local school district administrators or other alternative education providers, actively encourage and review the participation of all elementary school students with the focus on those who are historically underrepresented in STEM career fields.

(f) Maintain a roster of participants from each DoD STARBASE Program class based on information provided by the supported school district, alternative education provider, or individual or group of home-schooling families.

(g) Neither approve nor disapprove individual student nominations for participation in the STARBASE Program; the participating school is solely responsible for designating student participation.

(h) If authorized by the Secretary of the Military Department concerned, establish procedures to cooperate with and receive tangible support from other departments and agencies of the Federal Government, State governments, local governments, non-profit organizations, and corporations or individuals in the private sector.

(i) Establish collaborative efforts with organizations and individuals to enhance and expand opportunities for the DoD STARBASE Program.

(j) May seek guidance, advice, and community input from local non-profit organizations. At no time will such a local non-profit organization assume any fiduciary or legal decision-making responsibilities in place of either the DoD Component or the local commander.

(k) Coordinate DoD STARBASE Program academy activities with local military, community, and business leaders.

(l) Not exceed a $100,000 expenditure in any fiscal year on real property maintenance or upgrades, unless granted an exception by the ASD(M&RA).

(m) Cooperate with OASD(M&RA) support personnel in gathering data for the annual fiscal year congressional report and any other DoD reporting requirements.

(n) Forward an annual plan that outlines the goals and objectives of the DoD STARBASE Program academy with a by-line budget request through the applicable Military Service or NGB STARBASE Program Manager, to ASD(M&RA).

(o) Submit annual budget requests through the applicable Military Service or NGB STARBASE Program Management Office to the ASD(M&RA) that identify DoD STARBASE Program academy expenditures by:

1. Staff, in accordance with the guidelines of Section 4.

2. Instructional materials, training aids, uniform items, student safety equipment, and other materials deemed necessary to support and conduct the DoD STARBASE Program.

3. Facility maintenance, as approved by the OASD(M&RA) DoD STARBASE Program Manager.

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 10

4. Facility furnishings.

5. Staff transportation and travel (e.g., temporary duty, training, special events).

DoD STARBASE Program funds will not be used for relocating staff.

6. Supplies.

7. Equipment.

8. Contract services.

9. Communications, including information technology support.

(p) Establish procedures to ensure all classroom contact hours take place on a military installation. The ASD(M&RA) will approve exceptions to this on a case-by-case basis.

(q) Provide DoD STARBASE Program instruction using only the mandatory, approved STARBASE curriculum described in Section 5.

(r) Not be administered by a for-profit organization.

b. Advanced DoD STARBASE Programs with STARBASE 2.0.

An advanced DoD STARBASE Program performs all the operations of a basic DoD STARBASE Program and also offers a secondary community outreach and after-school program called STARBASE 2.0. Supplemental classes are permitted to utilize STEM curriculum outside the approved DoD STARBASE Program curriculum. The OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager is responsible for ensure compliance with the requirements listed in this section.

(1) DoD STARBASE Programs that have met the requirements of a basic DoD STARBASE Program may request approval to operate an advanced DoD STARBASE Program.

After an evaluation to ensure that basic DoD STARBASE Program requirements are being met, the ASD(M&RA) may approve implementation of advanced DoD STARBASE Program funding, staffing, and STEM program activities.

(2) STARBASE 2.0 combines STEM activities with a relationship-rich, school-based afterschool and extracurricular environment to provide the missing link for youth making the transition from elementary to middle to high school. It extends the positive impact of the DoD STARBASE Program through an afterschool STEM coaching approach that solidifies students’ attachment to and engagement with school. STARBASE 2.0 targets 6th to 8th graders. The program takes place in partnering schools selected by the individual DoD STARBASE Program academy program director. As with other afterschool and extracurricular coaching programs, STARBASE 2.0 is highly structured and helps support school goals, provides safe environments for students, improves student-teacher relationships, and empowers schools through student referrals.

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 11

(3) The OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager will issue all policy and guidance for STARBASE 2.0.

(4) Successful implementation of STARBASE 2.0 will require the cooperation of partnering schools, volunteer STEM coaches, and student participants. STEM coach coordinators from participating DoD STARBASE programs will play an invaluable role in implementation of STARBASE 2.0 by providing guidance, instruction, and effective role models for STARBASE 2.0 participants.

(5) Established STARBASE 2.0 program staff members will provide support to new DoD STARBASE programs implementing a STARBASE 2.0 Program through training, technical assistance, and their lessons learned.

(6) Requirements to operate a STARBASE 2.0 Program will follow the ASD(M&RA)’s program guidelines as outlined in the DoD STARBASE 2.0 Program Guide, implemented separately from this issuance by OASD(M&RA). The OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager will ensure that STARBASE 2.0 programs adhere to the following requirements:

(a) The program must support STEM activities and must target middle school students.

(b) The program should be school-based with district support. Meetings will typically take place after school and each school will be led by a teacher from the participating school.

(c) Meet for no less than 4 hours each month, for a minimum of 20 hours for the school year.

(d) Each STEM coach will support no more than four middle school students.

(e) Must have an MOU or memorandum of agreement in place.

(f) Must have a designated STEM coach coordinator.

(7) Other partnering schools considering a STARBASE 2.0 program must:

(a) Provide adequate meeting space (e.g., classroom or all-purpose room.)

(b) Appoint a teacher or designated school representative as point of contact.

(c) Provide background checks on STEM coach volunteers.

(d) Provide computers and information technology support as needed.

(e) Arrange for an after-school snack.

(f) Provide parking for DoD STARBASE Program staff and STEM coaches.

SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 12

3.5. DOD STARBASE PROGRAM EVALUATION.

Standardized instruments for evaluating the DoD STARBASE Program will be established by the OASD(M&RA) DoD STARBASE Program Manager. The DoD STARBASE Program will be evaluated on:

a. Increase in student knowledge of STEM subjects.

b. Positive changes in students’ attitudes towards STEM subjects by the administration of pre- and post-event surveys.

c. Compliance with DoD STARBASE Program guidelines, including program operating tempo requirements.

d. Budget tracking and execution.

3.6. DOD STARBASE PROGRAM SUPPORT TERMINATION.

At the discretion of the ASD(M&RA), DoD support for a DoD STARBASE Program Academy may be terminated because:

a. A DoD STARBASE Program director fails to provide the data necessary for compilation of the annual congressional report.

b. A DoD STARBASE Program does not show a measurable achievement of program goals.

c. A military installation fails to support, or becomes unable to adequately support, a DoD STARBASE Program.

d. The Secretary of the Military Department concerned or the Chief, NGB, recommends that the DoD STARBASE Program be terminated.

e. The ASD(M&RA), as appropriate, determines termination is warranted.

SECTION 4: ACADEMY PERSONNEL 13

SECTION 4: ACADEMY PERSONNEL

4.1. BASIC DOD STARBASE STAFF.

DoD STARBASE Program academies will have at least four full-time staff consisting of a director, deputy director, instructor, and instructor assistant or office manager. For each additional classroom that operates at a DoD STARBASE Program academy, an additional instructor and assistant is required. The full-time staff will be Federal civilian employees or persons employed under contract with the Federal Government; civilian employees of the State or persons employed under contract with the State; or National Guard personnel in a State active duty status. For Federal civilian positions, the position will be established within the specified grade levels. For State civilian positions or contract employment, the position will be established at an equivalent grade level. Exceptions to these minimum personnel staffing requirements may be approved on a case-by-case basis by the OASD(M&RA) DoD STARBASE Program Manager. Completion of criminal history background checks are required for all DoD STARBASE Program academy personnel in accordance with DoDI 1402.05. The qualifications and responsibilities of full-time staff will include:

a. Director.

The responsibilities of the position will support classification as a general schedule (GS)-12 or GS-13 (or equivalent).

(1) Qualifications.

(a) A bachelor’s degree, preferably in a STEM field or education.

(b) At least 5 years of experience in elementary education or program management is preferred.

(2) Responsibilities.

The director:

(a) Plans, organizes, and conducts a comprehensive program, integrating a variety of resources.

(b) Develops supporting policies, procedures, and regulations to comply with program requirements.

(c) Manages day-to-day operations of the DoD STARBASE Program academy.

(d) Supervises personnel and conducts staff development.

(e) Maintains control and inventory of equipment and supplies purchased with DoD STARBASE Program funds.

SECTION 4: ACADEMY PERSONNEL 14

(f) Conducts an annual review of the DoD STARBASE Program academy processes and examines records to improve efficiency of operations.

(g) Serves on steering committees established by the OASD(M&RA) to improve DoD STARBASE Program academy effectiveness and operations.

(h) Requires the DoD STARBASE Program meet operations requirements, as outlined in Paragraph 3.4.

(i) Presents information to key participant groups and stakeholders.

b. Deputy Director.

The responsibilities of the position will support classification as a GS-11 or GS-12 (or equivalent).

(1) Qualifications.

(a) A bachelor’s degree, preferably in a STEM field or education.

(b) At least 3 years of experience in elementary education is preferred.

(2) Responsibilities.

The deputy director:

(a) Provides classroom instruction.

(b) Maintains records and files.

(c) Organizes and manages classrooms.

(d) Prepares the facility and the instructional materials for classes.

(e) Serves as deputy for the director.

c. Program Instructor.

The responsibilities of the position will support classification as a GS-9 to GS-11 (or equivalent).

(1) Qualifications.

(a) A bachelor’s degree in STEM field or education.

(b) At least 3 years of experience in elementary education is preferred.

SECTION 4: ACADEMY PERSONNEL 15

(2) Responsibilities.

The program instructor:

(a) Provides classroom instruction.

(b) Organizes and manages classrooms.

(c) Prepares the facility and the instructional materials for classes.

d. Instructor Assistant.

The responsibilities of the position will support classification as a GS-5 to GS-9 (or equivalent).

(1) Qualifications.

(a) A high school diploma.

(b) Must be at least 18 years old.

(2) Responsibilities. The instructor assistant:

(a) Performs all classroom preparation and instructional duties.

(b) Maintains records and files.

(c) Organizes and manages classroom(s).

(d) Prepares classes.

e. Office Manager. The responsibilities of the position will support classification as a GS-5 to GS-9 (or equivalent).

(1) Qualifications.

(a) A high school diploma.

(b) Must be at least 18 years old.

(2) Responsibilities.The office manager:

(a) Assists the DoD STARBASE Program academy staff by managing office duties, including maintaining records, correspondence, and files.

(b) With appropriate educational credentials (as outlined for a program instructor in Paragraph 4.1.c.), may provide classroom instruction.

SECTION 4: ACADEMY PERSONNEL 16

4.2. ADVANCED STARBASE 2.0 STAFF.

DoD STARBASE Program academies that also perform STARBASE 2.0 programs may include additional responsibilities for basic program staff or add additional staff to perform program coordinator or part-time instructor functions. The OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager will ensure compliance with the requirements in this section. STARBASE 2.0 is primarily a volunteer program. The DoD STARBASE 2.0 program coordinator functions include coordinating participation of volunteer STEM coaches and classroom instructors.

Minimum qualifications and responsibilities for employees performing these functions will include:

a. STARBASE 2.0 Program Coordinator.

The responsibilities of the position will support classification as a GS-9 to GS-11 (or equivalent).

(1) Qualifications.

(a) A bachelor’s degree in STEM field or education.

(b) At least 3 years of experience in elementary education preferred.

(2) Responsibilities.

The STARBASE 2.0 coordinator:

(a) Creates and implements program marketing.

(b) Manages relationships with schools.

(c) Recruits and screens program volunteers.

(d) Manages volunteer STEM coaches.

(e) Coordinates and delivers volunteer training.

(f) Tracks data.

(g) Supports and motivates program volunteers.

SECTION 4: ACADEMY PERSONNEL 17

b. Part-Time Instructor(s).

The responsibilities of the position will support classification as a GS-9 to GS-11 (or equivalent).

(1) Qualifications.

(a) A bachelor’s degree in STEM field or education.

(b) At least 3 years of experience in elementary education preferred.

(2) Responsibilities.

The part-time program instructor:

(a) Assists the STARBASE 2.0 coordinator in the coordination and management of student activities.

(b) Supports program volunteers in coaching the students.

4.3. USE OF MILITARY PERSONNEL.

Military personnel on active duty or full-time National Guard duty, who meet the minimum qualification requirements of the position, may be used to staff DoD STARBASE Program academies. Completion of criminal history background checks is required prior to military personnel engaging in such duties.

4.4. USE OF CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL.

A DoD STARBASE Program academy may use contractor personnel, as appropriate, to carry out administrative, training, or support services. Contractor personnel must meet position qualifications listed in this issuance.

4.5. USE OF VOLUNTEER PERSONNEL.

A DoD STARBASE Program academy may use volunteer services, as necessary, to support the STARBASE 2.0 program. Volunteer personnel must meet position qualifications listed in this issuance, as appropriate. Completion of criminal history background checks and gratuitous service agreements are required before volunteer personnel provide services in support of the program.

SECTION 5: STARBASE CORE CURRICULUM 18

SECTION 5: STARBASE CORE CURRICULUM

5.1. CURRICULUM.

The DoD STARBASE Program lesson plans will:

a. Include and support STEM subjects.

b. Provide engaging, interactive, and motivating activities and experiences for students.

c. Be reviewed and approved by the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager.

5.2. MANDATORY CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION.

The DoD STARBASE Program provides the approved SOA lesson plans and the curriculum implementation guide. Only approved lesson plans from the SOA may be taught for the basic DoD STARBASE Program school year. The SOA is subject to change as new curricula are introduced and outdated curricula are retired.

5.3. CURRICULUM REVIEW AND APPROVAL PROCESS.

a. All lesson plans must be approved by the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager before they are taught in the basic DoD STARBASE Program school year periods of instruction.

Instructional material used for summer outreach programs and STARBASE 2.0 advanced programs does not need OASD(M&RA) review/approval.

b. Program directors may submit lesson plan proposals to the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager. Proposals will undergo a rigorous review to ensure that they are scientifically accurate, and relevant to students’ academic needs based on grade-specific national educational standards. The OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager is responsible to manage the review process.

SECTION 6: STARBASE PERFORMANCE LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS 19

SECTION 6: STARBASE PERFORMANCE LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS

6.1. DETAILS AND CRITERIA OF THE PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT SYSTEM.

a. For each DoD STARBASE Program academy, the assessment system requires attaining all objectives at each performance level. These objectives must be sustained over time for the performance level to be retained. Performance level is determined through site visitations, academy reporting requirements, and periodic surveys. Shortfalls in required activities are handled through a corrective action schedule as established by the OASD(M&RA) DoD STARBASE Program Manager, to successfully obtain the required performance level under review. The OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager will ensure that a DoD STARBASE Program academy does not attain the performance level under review until the corrective requirements are completed and verified.

b. The assessment system also requires that a DoD STARBASE Program academy can only advance to higher performance levels after it successfully attains a positive assessment at the lower level. Academies must meet all required activities at Level I before they can claim any activities at Level II. While an academy program can move towards and complete an activity at another performance level, the program will not be reviewed for acceptance until all of the requirements of the lower performance level had been achieved.

c. The attainment of these performance levels provides the OASD(M&RA) and the Military Service or NGB representative concerned a way to determine whether an academy may be considered and selected for special programs that require a specific performance level. The system also distinguishes and identifies locations that operate at higher performance levels to military sponsors, participant groups, the local community, the target group of students, and school systems.

d. Each of the performance level criteria is reviewed on an ongoing basis for location-wide application, appropriate performance level designation, the typical period in which it can be attained, and the ability for future sustainability. As collaborations and newly established operations are introduced by DoD STARBASE Program academies, the DoD STARBASE Program performance level review process will be refined and expanded.

6.2. LEVEL I: THE BASIC, FULLY OPERATING LOCATION.

Level I criteria include all requirements of this issuance and operating guidelines required by the ASD(M&RA). This incorporates requirements for program activities, such as:

a. Student numbers.

b. Classroom hours.

c. Utilization of approved STARBASE curriculum content.

d. Military-base program delivery.

SECTION 6: STARBASE PERFORMANCE LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS 20

e. Emphasis on the target student population.

f. Required documentation of any MOUs or active waivers.

g. Reporting requirements.

h. A number of administrative responsibilities such as written waivers, disability building accessibility, testing samples, teacher assessment, etc.

6.3. LEVEL II: THE ADVANCED PERFORMING LOCATION.

a. Level II requires attainment of Level I status and success with a set of defined operational, planning, and managerial upgrades, fiscal program operations, and the successful DoD STARBASE 2.0 program installation and maintenance. These are organizational and administrative requirements established by the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager to obtain program delivery efficiencies and operational effectiveness.

b. These requirements include, but are not limited to:

(1) Participant group involvement.

(2) Program enhancements.

(3) STEM program inventories and an assessment of potential fit that enhances student participation in further skill development.

(4) Budget management, planning, and review.

(5) Public relations planning.

(6) Personnel management plans.

(7) Equipment status assessment.

(8) “Children-at-risk” review.

(9) Staff development/personnel plans.

(10) Transfer of leadership plans (i.e., succession plans).

(11) Management resource manuals.

(12) Other considerations that upgrade program management and operating performance.

SECTION 6: STARBASE PERFORMANCE LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS 21

6.4. LEVEL III: A HIGH PERFORMING LOCATION.

a. DoD STARBASE Program academies must achieve level I and II status before they can be assessed at level III. Level III requires the development of an activity, or set of activities, that significantly advances the DoD STARBASE Program vision and mission.

b. Operational and program enhancements, higher-level problem-solving techniques, time-sensitive improvements, and efficiencies in operations can be included in the assessment of level III activities. High priority activities are those that promote the student population’s welfare and STEM skills and abilities, demonstrate program sustainability, provide transportability to other locations, and have the ability to be installed and operable within an 18-to-24-month period. The validation of the DoD STARBASE Program’s installation and sustainability, as well as the operational potential for transportability, will be reviewed for approval by the OASD(M&RA) STARBASE Program Manager.

GLOSSARY 22

GLOSSARY

G.1. ACRONYMS.

ACRONYM MEANING

ASD(M&RA) Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs

DoDI DoD instruction

GS general schedule

MOU memorandum of understanding

NGB National Guard Bureau

OASD(M&RA) Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs

SOA standards, objectives, and activities STEM science, technology, engineering, and mathematics

U.S.C. United States Code USPFO U.S. Property and Fiscal Officer

G.2. DEFINITIONS.

Unless otherwise noted, these terms and their definitions are for the purpose of this issuance.

TERM DEFINITION

alternative education provider

A public or private school that is designed for children who do not function well in the traditional school setting. This may include continuation high schools or schools that fall outside the categories of regular, special education, or vocational education.

class A grouping of students in a DoD STARBASE Program academy.

This group may not necessarily have been a homogenous entity before DoD STARBASE Program instruction; it may be a temporary grouping only for the purposes of assembling for 25-hour minimum period of DoD STARBASE Program instruction. A class consists of a minimum of 20 students for classes during normal school periods, and a minimum of 15 students for supplemental classes.

GLOSSARY 23

classroom contact hour

A 60-minute period of time in which a DoD STARBASE Program academy instructor is actively involved with students or in which a Service member is demonstrating, displaying, or teaching students about a STEM application.

disability Physical, mental, or sensory impairments that render major life activities more difficult.

DoD STARBASE Program

A DoD STEM education improvement program authorized by Section 2193b of Title 10, U.S.C. The OASD(M&RA) administers policy and oversight; the DoD Components execute the program at DoD STARBASE Program academies. The DoD STARBASE Program is funded by Congress as a DoD Civil Military Program.

DoD STARBASE Program academy

A DoD educational entity that seeks to improve the knowledge and skills of students in kindergarten through 12th grade in STEM subjects and follows the academy model described herein. A DoD STARBASE Program academy is not defined in terms of a geographic location. DoD STARBASE Program is focused primarily on 4th through 6th grades and STARBASE 2.0 is focused primarily on 6th through 8th grades.

GS

The Federal classification and pay system, managed by the Office of Personnel Management that covers the majority of white-collar positions in the Federal Government.

military installation A base, camp, post, station, homeport facility for any ship, or other facility under the jurisdiction of the DoD, or under the operational control of the Secretary of a Military Department or the Secretary of Defense. This does not include any facility used for civil work.

Exceptions must be granted by the OASD(M&RA).

non-profit organizations

A legal entity recognized or chartered by competent State authority and to which the Internal Revenue Service has given status as a 501c(3) tax-exempt educational organization.

normal school year The timeframe in which the participating school is holding classes within its established academic year. Excludes times of scheduled holiday breaks or school vacations.

STEM coach A responsible adult who assists STARBASE 2.0 students on STEM projects during the instructional period. Preference should be given to selecting professionals in STEM career fields.

GLOSSARY 24

State The 50 States of the United States of America, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam.

STARBASE 2.0 DoD STARBASE 2.0 is a STEM-based afterschool coaching program that is based at a collaborating school system. The objective is to serve students at other grade levels in the STEM areas beyond their initial DoD STARBASE Program experience. The program maintains a unique school-based afterschool program that targets 6th to 8th graders. The DoD STARBASE 2.0 program is highly structured and helps support school goals, provides safe environments for students, and improves student-teacher relationships while empowering schools through student referrals.

USPFO The qualified commissioned officer of the Army National Guard or the Air National Guard, as the case may be, appointed by the Chief, NGB, to be the USPFO of a State or territory. The USPFO receives and accounts for all funds and property of the United States in the possession of the National Guard for which he is the property and fiscal officer and makes returns and reports concerning those funds and that property, as required by the Secretary of the Military Department concerned pursuant to Chapter 708 of Title 32, U.S.C.

REFERENCES 25

REFERENCES

DoD Directive 5124.02, “Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

(USD(P&R)),” June 23, 2008 DoD Instruction 1402.05, “Background Checks on Individuals in DoD Child Care Services

Programs,” September 11, 2015, as amended DoD Manual 8910.01, Volume 1, “DoD Information Collections Manual: Procedures for DoD

Internal Information Collections,” June 30, 2014, as amended United States Code, Title 10, Section 2193b United States Code, Title 32, Chapter 708

b. Advanced DoD STARBASE Programs with STARBASE 2.0.

References