9450017 Maki Proposed project builds upon an already successful program which provides enriching experiences for junior high girls. The overall objective appears to be retention of girls who have expressed and interest in and demonstrated some ability in SEM careers by providing on-going contact, increased exposure to hands-on activity and professional role models. In addition, the project proposes to expand the pool of individuals who can encourage the interests these girls express in SEM careers on an on-going basis by conducting workshops for significant adults in the lives of these girls (parents, organization leaders, teachers) to SEM careers and engaging them in hands-on science and math projects and demonstrations which show these subjects as fun and easily replicable in other situations. The overall project approach and the evaluation plan have merit and will make specific attempts to encourage the participation of Native American female participants. As participation of members of this target group have been minimal in previous projects, it is recommended the PI's contact the American Indian Science & engineering Society Headquarters (located in Boulder, CO) and get recommendations on the best approach for including Native American girls in this project and a letter of endorsement which can be taken to the reservation during the recruitment effort ***
