Approve Agreements for Technical Services for Elementary Science Trainers, 2007/2008 - $53,068 (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

We request approval of the attached list of trainers who will plan, conduct, and provide follow-up support for elementary science teachers at various locations throughout the District beginning September 7, 2007, through June 30, 2008, so all elementary science teachers are able to experience science, not just read about it.

Science teachers need a background in science to feel confident in presenting content to their students. Training will be provided where teachers can learn science concepts and will be shown how they can integrate the concepts in their reading by presenting the specially designed Picture Perfect Science Lessons Workshops. In addition to these workshops, additional training has been designed that takes physical science vocabulary and its concepts into hands-on activities based on Dina Zike's book, the Big Book of Foldables in Science. Activities are specifically chosen that build teacher background and expand the vocabulary of students in Grades K-5.

Courses to be offered include:

• Picture Perfect Science Lessons
• Using Literature to Guide Inquiry, which teaches physical science concepts integrated with children's literature
• Physical Science Foldables, where teachers learn to use a folding strategy to build science concepts and vocabulary

With greater emphasis on science content and ways to teach science effectively, the students in Hillsborough County will increase their learning and overall achievement in science. The goal is to give each child a better understanding and appreciation of science by giving the teachers a better understanding of the subject matter.

In order to effectively provide the training, permission is requested to add and/or delete facilitators as needed, not to exceed the budget of $53,068.

Goal 3 – Student performance on FCAT science will increase a minimum of 5 percentage points.

Funds of $53,068 for Elementary Training are included as follows: divisional budget for Elementary Title II ($39,448), Project 1380; and Elementary Title I ($13,620), Project 1395.

The Department of Staff Development will conduct teacher evaluation surveys at the conclusion of each training.