TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with Microsoft Corporation, for the programming of Microsoft Digital Alliance YouthSpark, for a three-year period. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
On June 23, 2015, the City Council authorized an agreement with Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft) to host free Digital Alliance events in collaboration with the City for a term of two years. As a result, the Department of Library Services and Innovation Team (i-team) coordinated the Microsoft Digital Alliance Digi-Camps to provide a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) exposure program that introduced more than 80 Washington Middle School students to computer coding and possible careers in STEM. Due to the success of the program, Microsoft Digital Alliance has agreed to provide continuous programming from 2017-2019 through YouthSpark, a Microsoft global initiative to increase access for all youth to learn computer science and to empower youth to achieve more for themselves, their families and their communities. Through this initiative, Microsoft has created educational, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for more than 300 million youth around the world. Microsoft continues to work in partnership with local governments, nonprofit organizations and businesses as they focus this initiative on providing opportunities for all youth to learn computer science.
Microsoft, with the coordinated support of the Department of Library Services, will host three YouthSpark sessions from 2017 through 2019, for up to 200 youth each year in the City.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Amy R. Webber on February 24, 2017 and by Revenue Management Officer Geraldine Alejo on March 2, 2017.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on April 4, 2017, to be eligible for Microsoft’s round of partnerships.
FISCAL IMPACT
The City will utilize existing resources currently budgeted in the General Fund (GF) in the Department of Library Services (LS) to provide in-kind support, such as event space, staff time to facilitate coordination of the events, and by promoting the events in the press and community. Microsoft will bear all other costs associated with the workshops and events. The events will enhance our local economy by providing capacity-building for local businesses and encouraging young people to pursue careers in technology, which pay higher wages and are growing in demand.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
GLENDA WILLIAMS
DIRECTOR OF LIBRARY SERVICES
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER