Odyssey’s Mission and Vision
Odyssey Atlanta’s mission is to expand the ambitions of Atlanta students and empower them on a successful journey through college and a fulfilling career. Recognizing the rapid evolution of technology and the demands of a global workforce, we are committed to aligning our programming with industry standards to equip our scholars with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability needed to thrive in the modern world. Through innovative educational experiences and collaboration with industry leaders, Odyssey ensures that our students are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and purpose.
Why Implement an Advisory Board?
In today’s constantly changing workplace ecosystems, it is essential to regularly review Odyssey’s curriculum and practices to ensure they remain relevant and meet the expectations of employers as well as colleges. Engaging in respectful dialogue with professionals in the field allows us to align our programming with the skills needed for college and beyond.
Advisory boards play a vital role in this process by providing expertise, advocacy, and input on curriculum and program changes for out of school time programs, ensuring they meet industry and community needs. While advisory boards do not set academic policies, their recommendations are instrumental in shaping program development and sustainability, supporting a curriculum that will better meet industry needs and prepare students to contribute meaningfully to the workforce.
What Are the Overarching Goals of the Technology Advisory Council?
The overarching goals of the Odyssey Atlanta Technology Advisory Council (TAC) are distinct from the opportunities and reasons for individuals to join While the latter focuses on the benefits and rationale for participation, the
goals of the Advisory Council are centered on its purpose and the outcomes it seeks to achieve
Curriculum Alignment:
Ensure that Odyssey Atlanta’s programming aligns with current and emerging industry standards, particularly in technology, to prepare students for college and fulfilling careers.
Offer expertise in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, coding, circuitry, and semiconductor technology so that teachers may develop a more rigorous and developmentally appropriate curriculum for elementary, middle, and high school scholars.
Industry Expertise:
Leverage the expertise of professionals across various sectors to guide program development, ensuring relevance and innovation in educational offerings.
Advocacy and Support:
Advocate for Odyssey’s mission and programs within their respective industries and communities, building partnerships that strengthen resources and opportunities for students.
Program Evaluation:
Provide feedback on curriculum design, program effectiveness, and student outcomes to ensure continuous improvement and sustainability
Resource Development:
Identify and support opportunities for funding, tools, partnerships, and other resources to enhance Odyssey’s programs and expand their impact.
Future-Readiness:
Help Odyssey stay ahead of trends in technology, education, and workforce demands to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an evolving world.
Benefits to Odyssey Scholars and Staff
TAC will offer invaluable support to Odyssey Atlanta, ensuring the program remains relevant, impactful, and aligned with the needs of students, educators, and the broader community.
Ensuring Program Relevance
The advisory council helps align Odyssey Atlanta’s curriculum and initiatives with current educational trends, workforce demands, and the interests of students and families. By incorporating diverse perspectives, the council ensures that programming remains meaningful and forward-thinking.
Maintaining Program Quality
Through ongoing evaluation and feedback, the council contributes to maintaining high standards of excellence. Members provide insights on best practices and suggest improvements to enhance the overall quality of Odyssey Atlanta’s summer enrichment and year-round programming.
Keeping Educators Current
Advisory council members help educators stay informed about innovative teaching methods, emerging technologies, and evolving educational standards. This ensures that Odyssey Atlanta’s staff remains equipped to deliver engaging and impactful learning experiences.
Identifying and Engaging Partners
The council fosters connections with community organizations, businesses, and educational institutions who work alongside parents and students to drive impact. These partnerships provide resources, opportunities, and expertise that enrich the program and broaden its reach
Developing Advocates
Advisory council members become passionate ambassadors for Odyssey Atlanta Their advocacy helps raise awareness, secure funding, and build a network of supporters who champion the program’s mission and vision.
Tapping into Expertise
Council members bring a wealth of professional knowledge and experience from their fields. Their insights inform strategic decisions, enhance project-based learning initiatives, and ensure that Odyssey Atlanta’s offerings prepare students for academic and career success.
Exploring “What If” Questions
The council encourages visionary thinking by posing critical “what if” questions These discussions inspire innovation, challenge the status quo, and open the door to new possibilities for growth and impact.
Benefits to Odyssey Business and Industry Partners
Participation on the Odyssey Atlanta Technology Advisory Council allows business and industry partners to make a lasting impact while reaping the benefits of a more prepared workforce, a stronger community, and meaningful professional connections Below are some of the benefits as well as the rationale for accepting the opportunity to join.
Creating the Future Workforce
Advisory council members have the unique opportunity to shape the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers By collaborating with Odyssey Atlanta, partners can help align program initiatives with the skills and competencies needed in their industries, ensuring that students are better prepared to meet future workforce demands
Building a Stronger Community
Investing in Odyssey Atlanta strengthens the local community by empowering students and families with educational opportunities. A well-educated, engaged community benefits businesses by creating a more
stable, skilled, and informed population, fostering economic growth and social well-being
Creating Immediate Workforce Benefits
Through partnerships with Odyssey Atlanta, businesses can identify and cultivate potential future employees. Engaging with students early allows businesses to develop a pipeline of talent, provide mentorship, and encourage interest in specific career paths, addressing immediate workforce needs.
Networking Opportunities
Participation in the advisory council connects businesses with other like-minded organizations, educational institutions, and community leaders These relationships foster collaboration, spark innovation, and open doors to new partnerships and business opportunities.
Giving Back to the Community
Being part of the advisory council provides businesses with a meaningful way to contribute to and strengthen the community. By supporting Odyssey Atlanta’s mission, industry partners demonstrate corporate social responsibility, build goodwill, and create a positive reputation as champions of education and equity by supporting students and their growth.
Providing Input on Trends and Needs
Business and industry partners have a direct platform to voice their perspectives on workforce trends, industry needs, and skills gaps This collaboration ensures that Odyssey Atlanta’s programming remains relevant and impactful, while also addressing the real-world challenges faced by businesses.
Enhancing Corporate Culture and Philanthropy
Participation in Odyssey Atlanta’s advisory council allows businesses to align their philanthropic efforts with impactful educational initiatives, particularly in technology and innovation. By supporting programs that
prepare students for tech-driven careers, companies demonstrate corporate social responsibility while fostering goodwill among employees and stakeholders.
Involvement also offers employee resource groups (ERGs) opportunities to mentor students, share expertise, and engage in meaningful outreach. This strengthens company culture by promoting collaboration, equity, and community engagement while building a pipeline of tech-savvy talent that benefits both the industry and the community.
Responsibilities and Commitments
A diverse and impactful advisory council for Odyssey Atlanta’s technology education program requires clearly defined roles and responsibilities to ensure its effectiveness. Below is an elaboration on key responsibilities and commitments:
Providing Strategic Guidance
Advisory council members offer insights and expertise to help shape the program’s vision and goals. This may include:
Aligning Curriculum with Industry Needs: Recommending updates to the curriculum to reflect emerging technologies, in-demand skills, and workforce trends
Identifying Strategic Priorities: Helping prioritize program initiatives, such as expanding access to advanced technologies, introducing certifications, or integrating project-based learning that mirrors real-world challenges.
Evaluating Program Impact: Reviewing program outcomes, providing feedback on effectiveness, and suggesting adjustments to ensure continuous improvement
Identifying Industry Trends
Council members play a crucial role in keeping the program ahead of the curve by sharing knowledge of:
Emerging Technologies: Highlighting innovations such as AI, cybersecurity, or cloud computing that students should explore.
Workforce Demands: Informing the program of the most sought-after skills and certifications in the technology sector.
Market Shifts: Advising on how global and local trends, such as remote work or green technology, may influence future career paths.
Making Connections to Resources and Partnerships
Council members act as liaisons between Odyssey Atlanta and external stakeholders, leveraging their networks to:
Secure Partnerships: Connecting the program with technology companies, nonprofits, and educational institutions that can provide funding, mentorship, or internship opportunities.
Source
Access Resources: Facilitating donations of equipment, software, or access to learning platforms that enhance the program’s offerings.
Expand Opportunities: Introducing students to guest speakers, job-shadowing experiences, and industry events to broaden their exposure to the tech field.
Serving as Advocates for the Program
Advisory council members commit to promoting Odyssey’s mission by:
Raising Awareness: Sharing the program’s successes and needs within their networks to attract support and recognition
Securing Funding: Advocating for financial contributions from businesses, foundations, or government initiatives
Encouraging Participation: Recruiting other industry professionals to contribute as mentors, volunteers, or guest instructors.
Participating in Meetings and Initiatives
Members are expected to actively engage in TAC activities by:
Attending Regular Meetings: Providing input and staying informed about the program’s progress and challenges.
Collaborating on Initiatives: Working with staff to develop new projects, events, or partnerships.
Offering Expertise: Sharing professional knowledge to guide decision-making and program development.
By fulfilling these responsibilities, advisory council members ensure Odyssey Atlanta’s technology education program remains relevant, impactful, and well-supported empowering students to thrive in a tech-driven world.
In addition to these commitments, members are expected to actively engage as thought partners bringing fresh perspectives, posing challenging “what if” questions, and contributing insights from their respective fields. Members may also serve on subcommittees, recommend guest speakers, or provide input on projects and strategic priorities.
Odyssey Atlanta is also committed to centering equity, access, and student voice in all programming. Council members are encouraged to reflect those
values in their guidance and to advocate for inclusive practices that expand opportunities for all scholars
To maintain effective collaboration, members agree to review shared materials in a timely manner and support clear communication between meetings. Agendas, resources, and updates will be provided by Odyssey staff via a designated platform. Regular attendance and engagement will be tracked annually by the Chair or staff liaison
Technology Advisory Council Composition
The ideal size for an advisory council should balance diversity of expertise with manageability to foster meaningful collaboration. The Odyssey Atlanta Technology Advisory Council (TAC) shall consist of 10 to 15 members, ensuring a balanced diversity of expertise while maintaining an effective structure for meaningful collaboration. Members will be selected based on their professional backgrounds, industry knowledge, and commitment to enhancing technology education for Odyssey scholars. Members will be recruited and selected by the administration with guidance from the current TAC The Council will be composed of the following representatives
Here is the recommended compositions of members:
Education Sector (3–4 members):
STEAM educators with expertise in technology integration across elementary, middle, and high school levels
Representatives from local school districts or educational organizations with experience in project-based learning.
Technology, Energy, and Utilities Industries (3–4 members):
Professionals from major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, Georgia Power, Carbice, or similar organizations
Experts in emerging fields involving artificial intelligence, robotics, or semiconductor manufacturing.
Parents and Students (2–3 members):
Parents with a vested interest in advancing STEAM education for their children.
Current or recent students (ideally 8th–12th grade) who can provide insight into student- experiences and needs.
Local and Regional Community (2 members):
Representatives from community organizations, local universities, or nonprofits that support STEM education or youth development.
Odyssey Atlanta Stakeholders (2 members):
Former board members, alumni, or other stakeholders familiar with Odyssey’s mission and history.
Technology Advisory Council Officer Roles & Responsibilities
Chairperson – Essential Duties
The Chairperson leads the Technology Advisory Council and ensures the group remains focused, collaborative, and aligned with Odyssey Atlanta’s mission.
● Facilitates all quarterly and special meetings of the TAC
● Develops meeting agendas in collaboration with Odyssey staff liaisons
● Guides TAC discussions to actionable recommendations
● Ensures follow-through on TAC priorities and assigned initiatives
● Represents the TAC in communications with Odyssey leadership
● Serves as a key ambassador for TAC’s work and its impact
Vice Chairperson – Essential Duties
The Vice Chairperson supports the Chairperson and provides continuity of leadership in their absence
● Assists the Chair in preparing for and facilitating meetings.
● Leads meetings in the absence of the Chairperson.
● Supports coordination of subcommittees or special initiatives.
● Acts as a liaison for TAC members and Odyssey staff as needed.
● Prepares to assume Chairperson duties in a future term, if desired
Secretary – Essential Duties
The Secretary ensures effective documentation and communication of TAC’s work.
● Takes and maintains accurate meeting minutes
● Tracks action items and member follow-up between meetings
● Collaborates with Odyssey staff to distribute agendas, minutes, and materials
● Maintains attendance records and membership terms
● Supports documentation for reporting, evaluations, and presentations
● Emails meeting reminders and notifications a week in advance of quarterly, sub-committee, and ad hoc meetings
Terms of Membership and Succession
TAC members shall serve a two-year term, renewable once for a total of four consecutive years After two consecutive terms, members must take a one-year break before being eligible for reappointment.
To ensure continuity, at the council’s formation, approximately half of the founding members will serve an initial one-year term, while the remaining members will serve a full two-year term. This staggered approach will ensure balanced rotation and fresh input in future years.
Membership terms will be tracked and reviewed annually by the Chairperson or a designated Odyssey staff liaison.
Quarterly Meeting Schedule
Key Notes
Regular meetings are scheduled for once a quarter at 8:30 am on the first Wednesday of the designated months to maintain consistency. Adjustments can be made if a meeting date conflicts with a federal holiday, school break, or other significant event.
Sub-committee meetings are at the discretion of the Chairperson and the sub-committee members if and when those committees are formed
Additional ad-hoc meetings may be called if urgent matters arise, but the regular meetings should suffice for the council's core activities.
Locations may vary from the Westminster School campus to the advisory council members’ work sites. The council may designate select meetings as hybrid, accommodating in-person and virtual attendance. The secretary will ensure reminders and notifications for meeting are shared one week in advance with the location identified
April 2025:
Purpose: Orientation. Initial kickoff meeting to share Odyssey’s mission, advisory goals, learn about strategic partners’ firms, workplace trends, and industry needs. Determine what they would like to assess during on-site summer visit and which divisions
Date: Third Wednesday of April (April 23, 2025)
June 2025:
Purpose: On-site classroom visits to observe technology integration in all three divisions (elementary, middle, and high school)
The week of June 23 is designated for class observation. However, the dates and times below are also designated for corporate sponsor tours. These may be times to avoid.
● Odyssey Elementary
○ June 24, 9 am - 10 am
○ June 26, 9 am - 10 am
● Odyssey Middle and Highschools
○ June 24, 1 pm - 2 pm
○ June 26, 1 pm - 2 pm
The Chair should be notified of the following:
● The division you prefer to observe.
● Your selected tour date and the time you plan to arrive on campus via a calendar invite to walter.henderson@ien.gatech.edu and michellehayes@odysseyatlanta.org
● Any required accommodations
September 2025:
Purpose: Review data collected from summer sessions, assess technology needs, develop strategic integration plans, identify curriculum strengths and gaps, devise plan for securing resources, identify experiential work site opportunities for high school scholars.
Date: First Wednesday of September (September 3, 2025).
January 2026:
Purpose: Discuss and finalize the curriculum for the upcoming summer session, refine strategic plans, identify work-based learning opportunities for scholars, and address any identified needs.
Date: First Wednesday of January (January 7, 2026).
April 2026:
Purpose: Review progress toward summer preparation, celebrate first-year board members, and set the stage for the next annual cycle. Update guiding document if their is a consensus for revisions.
Date: First Wednesday of April (April 1, 2026).
Summary
The Odyssey Atlanta Technology Advisory Council plays a vital role in shaping the future of our scholars through innovation, collaboration, and thought leadership. This document serves as a shared understanding of the Council’s purpose, responsibilities, and values By serving on the TAC, members commit to supporting Odyssey’s mission to expand access to high-quality, technology-enriched education for all students.
Together, we advance the vision—and the voices—of our scholars.
