The McCann Middle School Science Education Initiative began in March 2006, with a gift of $105,920. The goal of the McCann Middle School Science Education Initiative is to encourage teachers to promote science education as a meaningful and relevant experience so that students are inspired to pursue the field of science through high school, postsecondary education, and career opportunities. This program supports rigorous academic standards by increasing instructor content knowledge, providing real-world applications, and modeling instructional strategies. Lab practice workshops with a focus on technology integration and career exploration provide critical support for engaging students in science education. A district resource teacher for science is responsible for conducting continuous inservice trainings coupled with Saturday workshops that provide opportunities for teachers to participate in workshops to discuss and apply best practices. The ongoing support provides on-site observations, feedback, and coaching; follow-up for application of training; and development of collegial support to provide sustainability.

It is requested that the School Board accept $100,000 from Joy McCann Culverhouse to continue support of science education in all middle schools.

Goal 3 - Student performance on FCAT science will increase a minimum of 5 percentage points.
Goal 5 - The district will close the FCAT achievement gap by a minimum of 10 percentage points as reported by No Child Left Behind.

If accepted, gift funds of $100,000 from Joy McCann Culverhouse will be included in the division special revenue/federal programs budget.

February 2008. Quarterly reports were provided to the donor during the first year of the gift period; the February 2007 report is attached. During the 2007/2008 school year, quarterly reports will be provided to the donor and an annual report will be provided to the School Board.