Why is it important to assemble assessment teams including various stakeholders?

Assembling assessment teams that include various stakeholders is crucial because it facilitates a more objective and comprehensive evaluation of the program. When individuals from different backgrounds, such as educators, parents, community members, and program staff, come together, they bring diverse perspectives, knowledge, and experiences to the assessment process. This diversity helps ensure that the evaluation considers multiple viewpoints, which leads to a more balanced understanding of the program's impact and effectiveness.

Incorporating various stakeholders also fosters collaboration and ownership among those involved in the program. It encourages buy-in from the community, making it more likely that the findings and recommendations will be valued and acted upon. By ensuring that the evaluation captures a wide range of experiences and insights, the assessment can provide a clearer picture of successes and areas for improvement, ultimately leading to more effective afterschool programs that meet the needs of the community they serve.