Alverno College Assessment Collaborative-  Twelve middle and high school teachers will participate in a course about assessing student performance BEYOND standardized testing. They will learn about assessments that engage students in “real world” tasks (vs. multiple choice exercises) to evaluate students’ abilities more accurately and then to develop strategies to meet the needs of the individual students. ($9600)

The Integration of Physics and Chemistry Workshop at Arizona State University- A Homestead High School Physics/Chemistry teacher will attend an innovative 4 week workshop devoted to modeling the ‘exemplary’ methods of teaching chemistry and physics. This nationally recognized technique of teaching allows students to be actively involved in their learning which leads to easier grasping of complex concepts along with long-term retention and understanding. ($1000)

Alan November Technology Conference-  A team of 6 educators will attend a summer conference sponsored by Mr. November and his world-class contemporaries about building learning communities, empowering teaching, and learning and leveraging technology. The information gained from the seminar will aid the school district in using technology as a vehicle for transforming the learning process. ($6000)

American Alliance for Health, Phy Ed, Recreation and Dance Convention-  An elementary Physical  Education  teacher will attend this conference to learn the latest cutting edge information, tools and techniques to teach children the importance of a heart healthy life-style. By providing students with the skills needed to adopt active lifestyles, academic achievement is enhanced. ($1000)

Habits of Mind Book Clubs and Teacher In-Service-  Teachers will participate in Book Clubs district-wide focusing on Art Costa and Bena Kallick’s Habits of Mind-Assessing  to continue to integrate creative and critical thinking into assessing students. In addition, Dr. Kallick will conduct in-service training to further explore and reinforce these techniques. ($10,254)

Author Visit-  First graders throughout the district will have the opportunity to further explore reading and writing with a nationally known author who will reinforce the critical and creative thinking skills encouraged in the “Habits of the Mind” effort. ($2250)

Digital Imaging Technology for Physical Science-  Digital imaging technology will become available to the high school students in Physical Science enabling them to translate their work ideas into accurate visual images. As the Physical Science course continues to evolve into a project-based learning experience, it is imperative for students to evaluate their projects with a realistic visual image to detect flaws and scientific misconceptions. ($3800)

Paired Textbooks for Grades 1-5-  “Paired textbooks” (a narrative (fiction) text and an expository (non-fiction) text having a common subject/focus) will be provided for elementary students to strengthen reading strategies. Research shows that students must receive instruction in reading strategies specific to fiction and non-fiction. This cutting-edge program will enable students to better comprehend, retain and apply what they read in an efficient manner. ($8000)

F.A.T. City Workshop Videos- F.A.T. (frustration, anxiety, and tension) City videos, presented by a nationally known expert on learning disabilities, show how the classroom can be an intimidating place for children with learning disabilities and/or struggling students. Every teacher in the district will have the opportunity to view this tape to gain t insight in these issues and to alter the way they interact and respond to learning disabled and struggling students. ($328)

Wireless Portable Computer Lab (Phase II) - A wireless mobile computer lab able to accommodate up to 20 students will be purchased. This computer lab will be housed at Oriole Lane Elementary School.  This represents phase II of this project and provides students with computer access in their day-to-day classroom setting. The flexibility this portable lab provides supports differences in learning styles, increases student motivation, and provides increased access to information with the student taking ownership of the learning process. The portable lab is also utilized outside of the classroom by teachers during parent-teacher conferences, by the Computer Club in its offsite competitions, by staff for development opportunities and by community members such as the elderly.  The grant was made possible through the generosity of an MTEF supporter.  ($22,000)