APS Elementary Science Teachers Participate in Summer Learning

APS Elementary Science Teachers Participate in Summer Learning Five teachers from Arlington Public Schools spent their summer in an innovative program designed to change how science is taught in Virginia classrooms. The teachers were selected to participate in the Virginia Initiative for Science Teaching and Achievement (VISTA), which kicked off with a four-week Elementary Science Institute at George Mason University. Funded by a $34 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the program is designed to shift science instruction from the traditional teacher-led classroom to a hands-on, problem-based learning lab. The teachers who participated in the program include:

• Laura Hansen and Danielle Lambert from Jamestown Elementary School
• Julie Bolin and Maren Copes from McKinley Elementary School; and
• Juan Otal from Carlin Springs Elementary School

Teachers were also awarded a $5,000 stipend as well as a $1,000 for classroom supplies. The teachers will also receive an all-expense-paid trip to the Virginia Association of Science Teachers Professional Development Institute in the fall. Additionally, each teacher is assigned a master teacher to provide mentoring throughout the school year. VISTA also offers free professional development for new middle and high school science teachers, and district science coordinators.