HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-05-15; Parks & Recreation Commission; 506-5; Selecting Recreation InstructorsPARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION - AGENDA BILL
AB# 506-5
MTG. DATE: | 5-15-06
STAFF: | SWENCK
TITLE:
PROCESS OF SELECTING RECREATION
ENRICHMENT CLASSES/CAMPS/INSTRUCTORS
INFO
ACTION
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Accept and file staff report
ITEM EXPLANATION:
During the April 17, 2006 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, Commissioner Hubbard
inquired as to how the Recreation Department selects the variety of classes and camps offered
year round.
Staff has prepared an informal report, which is attached as Exhibit 1. The report addresses the
processes, procedures, and guidelines followed in order to provide a variety of programs which
accommodate the needs of the community.
EXHIBITS:
1. Report to Recreation Director - Re: Response to Commissioner request - May 4, 2006
May 4,2006
TO: Recreation Director
VIA: Recreation Services Manager
FROM: Recreation Area Manager
RE: RESPONSE TO COMMISSIONER'S INQUIRY
"SELECTION PROCESS OF ENRICHMENT CLASSES/CAMPS/INSTRUCTORS
As stated in the Recreation Department's Strategic Plan "The Department strives to
provide valuable programs and services to all those who work, live and play in our
community. We recognize that different individuals and groups may have different
needs, wants, and desires. Therefore, we design and deliver programs and facilities with
specific consideration in order to address those needs."
The selection process of the Recreation Department's classes and camps is accomplished
through a series of assessments including:
D Previous enrollment/Waiting Lists
D Past Years' Evaluations
D Surveys
D Public Comment
D Trends
D Availability of Space
Staff also surveys neighboring cities to find out what is popular in their area.
The majority of all classes and camps are offered through an agreement with the City of
Carlsbad and Contract Instructors. Contract classes are independent businesses that pay
the City of Carlsbad a percentage of their class fees to support them through registration,
promotion of classes, and rooms set up and tear down.
Staff is continually evaluating all of me classes currently being offered and determines
what areas could use more classes, which one are not so popular, and what areas of
instruction we could target more closely.
Recruitment of Contract Instructors is a year-round process and includes placing ads in
magazines, local newspapers, websites such as craigslist.com and the City of Carlsbad's
website, dance studios, Universities/Colleges, Community Services Guides, and Requests
for Proposals (RFP).
Potential Instructors submit a proposal which includes an outline of the class/camp,
benefits gained by participation hi the proposed activity, time, costs, and space needed.
All Instructors are required to submit fingerprints, a negative T.B. test, resume, list of
qualifications, and a minimum of three letters of recommendation. Contract Instructors
EXHIBIT 1
are also required to attend a Contract Instructors Training and Contract Renewal meeting
on an annual basis to go over any new policies, procedures, and updates necessary to
provide a safe quality program.
After the conclusion of all sessions offered in our Community Services Guides (Fall,
Winter/Spring, Summer) an assessment of needs is determined. Staff reviews percentage
of enrollment, including waitlists, and classes falling below 25% capacity will be
monitored the following quarter. If the capacity is not increased during mis time the class
may be eliminated. Surveys submitted by class/camp participants also aide in
determining the popularity and success of the program. Every instructor receives survey
results and comments. Class evaluations are conducted randomly at the discretion of the
Recreation Department and Contract Instructors are encouraged to notify participants that
evaluation forms are available at every community center upon their request.
The Carlsbad Recreation Department strives to provide varied and unique opportunities
for lifelong learning. Efforts will be made to ensure that the program schedules include
many varieties of activities that appeal to the needs and interest of all citizens. For this
reason, Instructors may be limited to how many classes they are permitted to offer each
session. Additionally, classes that are not meeting minimum enrollments may be
cancelled due to lack of interest.
Should you have any further questions, inquiries, or concerns, feel free to contact me at
602-4649 or email me at lswen@ci.carlsbad.ca.us.
Sincerely,
Lori E. Swenck
Recreation Area Manager