The Achiever, May, 2007 -- Vol. 6, No. 5 (PDF)

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION PRESORTED ED PUBS The FIRST-CLASS MAIL May 7–11 P.O. BOX 1398 UNITED STATES POSTAGE PAID Teacher Appreciation Week, JESSUP, MD 20794-1398 CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD The PERMIT NO. 557 a celebration sponsored by the Q& VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007 National PTA. Established in Following a yearlong series of public 1984, the week’s observance U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION meetings across the country, the panel will provides an opportunity to A submit a final report early next year. Presi- honor the dedicated educators What is the Department dent Bush is requesting $250 million in his VOL.6, NO.5MAY 2007 www.ed.gov who teach America’s children. doing to improve math and 2008 budget to help states implement these Visit http://www.pta.org or science achievement? recommendations. FAFSA4caster Gives College Hopefuls call toll-free 1-800-307-4782. > Also part of the president’s 2008 budget New Online Tool Simplifies n a recent study, U.S. 15-year-olds request, a proposed $25 million for the cre- Jump Start on Federal Aid Availability ranked 24th out of 29 nations in math ation of the Adjunct Teacher Corps would Financial Aid Process Iliteracy and problem solving, performing encourage well-qualified math and science below the international average. Results of professionals to become adjunct secondary new online tool to help students and fam- student aid, including grants; another study proved just as disconcerting: school teachers. Funds would be used to ilies prepare financially for college before > Reduces the time it will take to complete the INSIDE only 7 percent of fourth- and eighth-graders make competitive grants to partnerships a student’s senior year of high school is Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); achieved an advanced level in math and of school districts and states (or of school A now available. Called the FAFSA4caster, it pro- and Calendar science, compared to 41 percent of students districts and appropriate public or private vides high school juniors with an early estimate > Simplifies the financial aid process for students 2 Virginia Tech University from Singapore. In response to this crisis, institutions) to create opportunities for pro- of their eligibility for federal financial aid, and families. Condolences the U.S. Department of Education has fessionals with subject-matter expertise to which could include a Pell Grant of up The FAFSA4caster allows for an easy May 15 –16 undertaken several new initiatives to help teach secondary school courses in math or to $4,310 based on financial need. transition to FAFSA on the Web, the Around the Country— White House Office of America’s students develop the solid math science, and provide students real-world “Improving college access and online version of the federal appli- Georgia and Texas Faith-Based and Community and science skills needed in today’s global applications for math and science concepts affordability is key to giving more cation. It pre-populates 51 of the economy. being taught in the classroom. 5 Calendar Initiatives Conference, Americans a chance at higher 102 questions on the FAFSA, sig- > Created in 2006 and modeled after the > Since the enactment of the No Child Left education and keeping America nificantly reducing the time it takes Phoenix, sponsored by a Q&A—Improving Math and influential National Reading Panel, the Behind Act in 2002, schools have been competitive,” said U.S. Secretary of for students to complete the FAFSA Science Achievement consortium of federal agencies, National Mathematics Advisory Panel will required to annually assess and report student Education Margaret Spellings, who in their senior year of high school. including the U.S. Department make recommendations based on the best progress in math and reading in an effort to introduced the tool in late March. The FAFSA4caster is available Education News Parents of Education. Part of a series of scientific evidence on the improvement of identify problem areas and inform instruc- “Families need more information— in both English and Spanish at Can Use mathematics education, with a particular tion. By the end of the 2007–08 school year, regional conferences being held sooner—about students’ federal aid eligibility http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov. emphasis on algebra readiness and success. students will also have to be tested in science. Making ED.gov More User-Friendly so that they can plan ahead for college. The Last September, Secretary Spellings announced 6 Making ED.gov More around the country, this meet- User-Friendly FAFSA4caster gives families an important tool her plans to improve the U.S. higher education ing for grassroots leaders will they can use to make decisions about the future.” system, based on the recommendations listed in provide information about News Show Focuses on Teacher Quality The FAFSA4caster: the final report of her Commission on the Future federal grant opportunities. he U.S. Department of Education introduces two new features: > Calculates a student’s eligibility for federal of Higher Education. The report included five has enhanced its Web site, > Secretary’s Corner. This feature highlights Visit http://www.fbci.gov or igh-quality, to recruit, train and > continued on page 2 http://www.ed.gov, to provide a the Department’s key priorities, which focus U.S. Department of Education Rigor in K– 6 call 202-456-6718. effective reward effective teachers; T 400 Maryland Ave. S.W. more user-friendly resource for promoting on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), teaching, and how programs like Washington, DC 20202 H educational excellence for all Americans. higher education and the American Competi- as well as innovative the Teacher Incentive On the Horizon The Achiever is a monthly publication Interdisciplinary Curriculum, Strong Leadership Account approaches to better Fund, along with the The site now has a brighter, more uniform tiveness Initiative. In particular, a fresh This fall, the U.S. Department for parents and community leaders from recruit and retain proposed Adjunct look, and many of the links have been addition, “Meet the Secretary,” provides the Office of Communications and For100-Percent Proficiency at New York School of Education’s Office of English Teacher Corps and streamlined to make navigation much detailed information about U.S. Secretary of Outreach, U.S. Department of Education exceptional teachers, (ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary. Language Acquisition will host will be the focus of the other teacher quality simpler. Education Margaret Spellings: her biography, Discussing a helicopter flight he’d recently taken to care for a While the Web site retains its most speeches, reflections from recent travels, and Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby, the Sixth Annual Celebrate Our May edition of Educa- programs under the editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at critically injured patient, Dr. William Meade, Jr., recalled where Rising Stars Summit, Oct. 29–31 tion News Parents Can American Competitive- popular links—including the four responses to questions from teachers on vari- [email protected]. he first learned the navigational terms “latitude” and “longitude”: in Washington, D.C. Designed Use, the U.S. Department ness Initiative, are categories designed for students, par- ous policy issues. Also included is a sequence Address changes and subscriptions? in elementary school. The 31-year-old physician, who will be of video excerpts spotlighting the secretary’s Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or to help educators of English of Education’s monthly designed to strengthen ents, teachers and administrators—it completing his residency training in emergency medicine at the views on topics ranging from the reautho- [email protected]. University of California–San Diego next June, said he attributes a lot language learners in all grades television program. our nation’s teachers, rization of NCLB to making college more Information on ED programs, resources Nothing is of what he has learned to his primary years at Lincoln Elementary All across the country, schools and students. and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN, achieve academic success, the School in Mount Vernon, N.Y. highly qualified teachers are inspiring excel- Each month, Education News Parents affordable. or [email protected]. summit will highlight best “That’s one of the things that is special about Lincoln—they lence in students. The May broadcast will Can Use showcases: schools and school > Success Stories. Broadening the online The Achiever contains news and information left to practices and research, as well about and from public and private organizations created that strong foundation, that skill set and support showcase several award-winning teachers districts from across the country; conversa- video offerings drawn from the Department’s for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not ‘‘ system, that allows anything to be possible in terms of as provide an opportunity to and explore how effective teaching is at the tions with school officials, parents and monthly television show, Education News constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart- chance. educational accomplishments subsequent to Lincoln,” said network with policymakers at core of America’s long-term economic com- education experts; and advice and free Parents Can Use, this new feature offers ment of Education of any products or services offered or views expressed. This publication Meade, who, with merit-based scholarships, went on to prep local, state and national levels. resources for parents and educators. video clips of schools with promising prac- petitiveness. Among the many features are: also contains hyperlinks and URLs created school and then to Duke University, where he earned both Visit http://www.oelasummit.org. an overview of the current state of the teach- To learn about viewing options, including tices, such as a school in Georgia where and maintained by outside organizations and provided for the reader’s convenience. The his undergraduate and medical degrees. “I think that’s the webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click 100 percent of its third- and fifth-graders ing profession and what is being done to Department is not responsible for the accuracy environment Mr. Albano created by pushing his teachers place a high-quality teacher in every class- on “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use”; are performing at grade level. of this information. > continued on page 2 room; innovative and alternative strategies or call toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN. page 5 page 6 ’’ > continued from page 1 > continued from page 1

major recommendations for improving to get the most out of their students.” students did so in math as well as in read- nots when it comes to enriching academic For instance, more than a decade ago, for example, morphs into a classroom discus- teacher using bouncing balls to demonstrate From left to right: Albano with students Kenja-Rae and Mizraim; Mesisco (center) college access, affordability and accountabil- Meade was referring to Principal ing in 2006.) opportunities. “Just because you’re born into a the retired spouse of one of the teachers sion about how writing has its own collection the theory of velocity. The children, who by with some of the Star Search participants; fourth-graders Tayler and Isaiah play ity: 1) aligning K–12 and higher education George Albano, whose 27-year leadership Moreover, when the state of New York certain race or neighborhood, you should not volunteered to start a chess club at Lincoln. of tools, such as a “grabber” or engaging second grade already have learned the differ- chess; and Mullins along with fifth-graders Juliana, Ashley and Anthony anticipate expectations; 2) increasing need-based aid has been widely credited for the school’s tested additional grades for the first time be denied what wealthy people can afford,” The children became so adept at the game— introduction, which the children would ence between a dependent and an independent a rocket’s distance. On the cover, Vaccaro, holding a spherical dodecahedron, for access and success of low-income legendary success. Honored last year last year, Lincoln’s third- through sixth- he said. “We’ve got to stop making excuses. winning several local competitions—that a need to employ for their journal assignment variable, use balloons that simulate rockets with student Eleidalee. Photos by Tom McWilliam, Jr. students; 3) using accreditation to support as a No Child Left Behind–Blue Ribbon graders proved consistently strong in both We have an obligation to give the children private donor gave a sizeable grant toward describing the imaginary expedition. to test their hypotheses on how far they will and emphasize student learning outcomes; School for consistent high academic subjects. Even fifth-graders’ scores, which in these schools what everyone else gets.” funding the training services of chess masters. “Everything is interdisciplinary,” said travel based on the measure of inflated air. Woven also into this academic framework cups in paint and gluing together three 4) serving adults and other nontraditional achievement, Lincoln has increasingly were a little lower than those for other That means assigning students at Lincoln Today, this expert instruction is the center of teacher Mary Anderson, whose husband Classroom lessons at Lincoln draw regu- are the arts. To learn about the water cycle, color groups to construct a disco ball-like students; and 5) enhancing affordability, attracted both local and national attention grades, were still considerably higher than highly sophisticated projects that involve a class held twice a week that teaches stu- started the chess club. “There isn’t a way to larly from a stock of manipulatives and first-graders sing with piano accompaniment geometric structure called a “spherical decreasing costs and promoting productivity. for its rigorous yet innovative approach state averages (77 percent in math and creating dioramas depicting artifacts from dents not only the art of chess but also the separate the subjects. There isn’t a way that props—including microscopes, magnifying a catchy song written by the music teacher: dodecahedron.” In a well-connected cur- The release of the FAFSA4caster puts into to elementary education. 76 percent in reading, compared to the Precambrian to the Cenozoic eras and critical thinking skills necessary for reading you could teach, say, fractions without them glasses and miniature models—that fill three “Water travels in a cycle. Yes, it does. Yes, it riculum, said art teacher Jennifer Vaccaro, place one of the secretary’s action steps in The largest elementary school in the 68 percent and 67 percent, respectively). teaching Latin in a study of Julius Caesar. and math. learning the vocabulary—the concept of walk-in closets supplied mostly through gen- does. … Goes up as evaporation. Comes “nothing is left to chance.” response to these recommendations. Mount Vernon City School District with Revealing an even more brilliant Yet, to make these types of enriching expe- By integrating subject matter across the numbers and languages together.” erous donations from science institutes and down as condensation. Rains down as Last year, reading specialist Diana Mesisco nearly 800 children, Lincoln has reached picture, the most recent disaggregated riences possible at a school with a 54-percent curriculum—even in a nontraditional class- As faculty members collaborate across used the performing arts as a platform to Photo courtesy of U.S. Em- capacity due largely to the out-of-bound- poverty rate takes more than dollars and room activity like chess—Lincoln has disciplines and grade levels to prepare launch a schoolwide literacy incentive pro- ary enrollment of students by parents cents. “Would I welcome more money?” created a seamless tapestry of learning lesson plans, interdisciplinary instruc- gram called “Star Search” inspired by the Our Condolences … who have heard of its remarkable reputa- asked Albano. “Yes. But to me that’s that allows students to experience first- tion is seen as both a team-building and popular television show American Idol. tion. “For anyone who cares enough another cop-out. You have to be hand the meaningful, interactive world a time-efficient approach. “People say Students were asked to write an original n response to the shootings on the about their child to want something innovative. What I’ve done is used of knowledge. A second-grade science lesson we don’t have enough time in elementary song about the plot or a character from campus of Virginia Tech University better, I’m not going to deny that,” said our success to excite people, because in which students describe the tools they [to cover all the material], but the key is their favorite book, then invited to perform on April 16, President George W. Bush Albano, regarding the 30–40 special there are a lot of good people out would bring on a fossil hunt, integrating the subjects,” said Albano. in a competition judged by a panel of I permission requests granted each year. there who want Science and math, in particular, are often parents and teachers. Along with a medal and U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings issued the following statements “At Lincoln, the children are chal- to make a the center of this multidisciplinary experi- award, participants were treated to a sur- of support: lenged and made to believe they can difference.” ence. For a fifth-grade project prise performance by American Idol’s own excel,” explained Delia Farquharson, about rockets, teacher Dawn Julia DeMato, who reached 10th place in “… Laura and I and many across our who transferred her nine-year-old daugh- Mullins builds on an exercise the show’s second season. nation are praying for the victims and ter, Kenja-Rae, there last fall following led by the physical education While the ingenuity of these efforts clearly their families and all the members of her disappointment with the neighbor- has been the hard work of the staff, many the university community who have hood school. “So I could not leave her of whom have taught at Lincoln for at least been devastated by this terri- in an environment where she was at risk 15 years, all agree that none of it would be ble tragedy. … Schools of being taught that mediocrity is okay.” possible without the longstanding leadership should be places of Demographically, Lincoln is the typical of Principal Albano. “I believe lots of schools safety and sanctuary multicultural school on the urban fringe, have good teachers, but it takes a great instruc- and learning. When seated in a racially and economically tional leader to really bring out the best in that sanctuary diverse suburb of New York City and them,” said Mesisco. is violated, the facing challenges similar An educator who could have retired five impact is felt in to its city counter- other organizations. precipitation. Yes, it does. Yes, it does.” years ago at age 55, Albano is considered every American parts. However, data (2005) by ethnicity and “No one wants to sit all day and read Following a few song rehearsals, the focus a tireless advocate for better classroom and every academically, it economic levels showed African- something from a book,” said Mullins about turns to a language arts lesson dividing the schooling for the less- American community.” is anything but American and white students, the hands-on learning. “And I don’t think scientific terms into syllables, finishing with than-privileged. “I’m —President Bush ordinary. Since along with those qualifying for they’ll remember years from now if someone a discussion of the technical stages of the here because I’m on a 2002, nearly free and reduced-price lunches, were to ask them about the relationship water cycle. mission to just not tell “As the mother every fourth-grader performed equally well on the between velocity and distance. I don’t think Like the music session, art class is another you it works, but to of a daughter in has met or exceeded state exam. it really makes an impression on them if occasion to explore complex themes, as stu- show you it does.” college, my heart state standards in read- For Albano, closing the achieve- they aren’t actively involved.” dents learn the difference between a polygon —BY NICOLE ASHBY goes out to the ing and math. (In 2004 ment gap is a matter of closing the and a polyhedron by dipping small paper parents of the stu- and 2005, 100 percent of gap between the haves and have- dents who lost their lives and to the entire Virginia Tech community on this sad day. My Department is work- ing with the White House and other AROUND THE COUNTRY Lincoln Elementary School agencies to identify what resources > Grade Span: K–6 > Special Education Students: 16% can be provided to Virginia Tech as the GEORGIA—More than 8,500 high Technology), wrapped up its 16th and TEXAS—The National Math and Science grants in up to 10 states for training and > Locale: Suburban > Percentage Proficient: In reading, 100%; university assesses its needs.” school students from across the country largest-ever season. It followed 37 regional Initiative, whose goal is to foster the next incentive programs for Advanced Placement in math, 99% (based on fourth-graders with 344 robots competed at the Geor- competitions held in March, from which teams generation of scientists and engineers, was (AP) and pre-AP courses, and up to 10 colleges > Total Students: 754 —Secretary Spellings gia Dome in Atlanta for the 2007 FIRST were invited to the championship based on their launched in March by leaders in the education and universities for the replication of the assessed on the 2006 state exam). > Race/Ethnicity Enrollment: Robotics Competition Championship, performance in competitive play, sportsmanship community and ExxonMobil with $125 million UTeach program, which encourages math > Interesting Fact: Since 2002, nearly Secretary Spellings is asking for suggestions 50% African-American, 25% Hispanic, every fourth-grader at Lincoln has met or from the public about school safety via held April 12–14. Free and open to the and the development of partnerships among in initial support from that corporation. Based and science majors to enter the teaching 23% white, 2% Asian exceeded state standards in reading and e-mail to her at [email protected]. public, the annual event, administered schools, businesses and communities. FIRST in Dallas, the nonprofit initiative seeks to profession. Within five years, the initiative by the public charity FIRST (For Inspi- participants are eligible for nearly $8 million improve U.S. global competitiveness by plans to expand these programs to 150 > Free and Reduced-Price Lunch math. In 2004 and 2005, 100 percent Eligible: 54% of students did so in math as well as in ration and Recognition of Science and in college scholarships. expanding two programs that have proven suc- school districts in 20 states and to more reading in 2006. cessful in Texas schools. This fall, it will award than 50 campuses nationwide. > English Language Learners: 28% page 2 page 3 page 4 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION PRESORTED ED PUBS The FIRST-CLASS MAIL May 7–11 P.O. BOX 1398 UNITED STATES POSTAGE PAID Teacher Appreciation Week, JESSUP, MD 20794-1398 CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD The PERMIT NO. 557 a celebration sponsored by the Q& VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007 National PTA. Established in Following a yearlong series of public 1984, the week’s observance U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION meetings across the country, the panel will provides an opportunity to A submit a final report early next year. Presi- honor the dedicated educators What is the Department dent Bush is requesting $250 million in his VOL.6, NO.5MAY 2007 www.ed.gov who teach America’s children. doing to improve math and 2008 budget to help states implement these Visit http://www.pta.org or science achievement? recommendations. FAFSA4caster Gives College Hopefuls call toll-free 1-800-307-4782. > Also part of the president’s 2008 budget New Online Tool Simplifies n a recent study, U.S. 15-year-olds request, a proposed $25 million for the cre- Jump Start on Federal Aid Availability ranked 24th out of 29 nations in math ation of the Adjunct Teacher Corps would Financial Aid Process Iliteracy and problem solving, performing encourage well-qualified math and science below the international average. Results of professionals to become adjunct secondary new online tool to help students and fam- student aid, including grants; another study proved just as disconcerting: school teachers. Funds would be used to ilies prepare financially for college before > Reduces the time it will take to complete the INSIDE only 7 percent of fourth- and eighth-graders make competitive grants to partnerships a student’s senior year of high school is Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); achieved an advanced level in math and of school districts and states (or of school A now available. Called the FAFSA4caster, it pro- and Calendar science, compared to 41 percent of students districts and appropriate public or private vides high school juniors with an early estimate > Simplifies the financial aid process for students 2 Virginia Tech University from Singapore. In response to this crisis, institutions) to create opportunities for pro- of their eligibility for federal financial aid, and families. Condolences the U.S. Department of Education has fessionals with subject-matter expertise to which could include a Pell Grant of up The FAFSA4caster allows for an easy May 15 –16 undertaken several new initiatives to help teach secondary school courses in math or to $4,310 based on financial need. transition to FAFSA on the Web, the Around the Country— White House Office of America’s students develop the solid math science, and provide students real-world “Improving college access and online version of the federal appli- Georgia and Texas Faith-Based and Community and science skills needed in today’s global applications for math and science concepts affordability is key to giving more cation. It pre-populates 51 of the economy. being taught in the classroom. 5 Calendar Initiatives Conference, Americans a chance at higher 102 questions on the FAFSA, sig- > Created in 2006 and modeled after the > Since the enactment of the No Child Left education and keeping America nificantly reducing the time it takes Phoenix, sponsored by a Q&A—Improving Math and influential National Reading Panel, the Behind Act in 2002, schools have been competitive,” said U.S. Secretary of for students to complete the FAFSA Science Achievement consortium of federal agencies, National Mathematics Advisory Panel will required to annually assess and report student Education Margaret Spellings, who in their senior year of high school. including the U.S. Department make recommendations based on the best progress in math and reading in an effort to introduced the tool in late March. The FAFSA4caster is available Education News Parents of Education. Part of a series of scientific evidence on the improvement of identify problem areas and inform instruc- “Families need more information— in both English and Spanish at Can Use mathematics education, with a particular tion. By the end of the 2007–08 school year, regional conferences being held sooner—about students’ federal aid eligibility http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov. emphasis on algebra readiness and success. students will also have to be tested in science. Making ED.gov More User-Friendly so that they can plan ahead for college. The Last September, Secretary Spellings announced 6 Making ED.gov More around the country, this meet- User-Friendly FAFSA4caster gives families an important tool her plans to improve the U.S. higher education ing for grassroots leaders will they can use to make decisions about the future.” system, based on the recommendations listed in provide information about News Show Focuses on Teacher Quality The FAFSA4caster: the final report of her Commission on the Future federal grant opportunities. he U.S. Department of Education introduces two new features: > Calculates a student’s eligibility for federal of Higher Education. The report included five has enhanced its Web site, > Secretary’s Corner. This feature highlights Visit http://www.fbci.gov or igh-quality, to recruit, train and > continued on page 2 http://www.ed.gov, to provide a the Department’s key priorities, which focus U.S. Department of Education Rigor in K– 6 call 202-456-6718. effective reward effective teachers; T 400 Maryland Ave. S.W. more user-friendly resource for promoting on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), teaching, and how programs like Washington, DC 20202 H educational excellence for all Americans. higher education and the American Competi- as well as innovative the Teacher Incentive On the Horizon The Achiever is a monthly publication Interdisciplinary Curriculum, Strong Leadership Account approaches to better Fund, along with the The site now has a brighter, more uniform tiveness Initiative. In particular, a fresh This fall, the U.S. Department for parents and community leaders from recruit and retain proposed Adjunct look, and many of the links have been addition, “Meet the Secretary,” provides the Office of Communications and For100-Percent Proficiency at New York School of Education’s Office of English Teacher Corps and streamlined to make navigation much detailed information about U.S. Secretary of Outreach, U.S. Department of Education exceptional teachers, (ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary. Language Acquisition will host will be the focus of the other teacher quality simpler. Education Margaret Spellings: her biography, Discussing a helicopter flight he’d recently taken to care for a While the Web site retains its most speeches, reflections from recent travels, and Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby, the Sixth Annual Celebrate Our May edition of Educa- programs under the editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at critically injured patient, Dr. William Meade, Jr., recalled where Rising Stars Summit, Oct. 29–31 tion News Parents Can American Competitive- popular links—including the four responses to questions from teachers on vari- [email protected]. he first learned the navigational terms “latitude” and “longitude”: in Washington, D.C. Designed Use, the U.S. Department ness Initiative, are categories designed for students, par- ous policy issues. Also included is a sequence Address changes and subscriptions? in elementary school. The 31-year-old physician, who will be of video excerpts spotlighting the secretary’s Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or to help educators of English of Education’s monthly designed to strengthen ents, teachers and administrators—it completing his residency training in emergency medicine at the views on topics ranging from the reautho- [email protected]. University of California–San Diego next June, said he attributes a lot language learners in all grades television program. our nation’s teachers, rization of NCLB to making college more Information on ED programs, resources Nothing is of what he has learned to his primary years at Lincoln Elementary All across the country, schools and students. and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN, achieve academic success, the School in Mount Vernon, N.Y. highly qualified teachers are inspiring excel- Each month, Education News Parents affordable. or [email protected]. summit will highlight best “That’s one of the things that is special about Lincoln—they lence in students. The May broadcast will Can Use showcases: schools and school > Success Stories. Broadening the online The Achiever contains news and information left to practices and research, as well about and from public and private organizations created that strong foundation, that skill set and support showcase several award-winning teachers districts from across the country; conversa- video offerings drawn from the Department’s for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not ‘‘ system, that allows anything to be possible in terms of as provide an opportunity to and explore how effective teaching is at the tions with school officials, parents and monthly television show, Education News constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart- chance. educational accomplishments subsequent to Lincoln,” said network with policymakers at core of America’s long-term economic com- education experts; and advice and free Parents Can Use, this new feature offers ment of Education of any products or services offered or views expressed. This publication Meade, who, with merit-based scholarships, went on to prep local, state and national levels. resources for parents and educators. video clips of schools with promising prac- petitiveness. Among the many features are: also contains hyperlinks and URLs created school and then to Duke University, where he earned both Visit http://www.oelasummit.org. an overview of the current state of the teach- To learn about viewing options, including tices, such as a school in Georgia where and maintained by outside organizations and provided for the reader’s convenience. The his undergraduate and medical degrees. “I think that’s the webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click 100 percent of its third- and fifth-graders ing profession and what is being done to Department is not responsible for the accuracy environment Mr. Albano created by pushing his teachers place a high-quality teacher in every class- on “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use”; are performing at grade level. of this information. > continued on page 2 room; innovative and alternative strategies or call toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN. page 5 page 6 ’’ U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION PRESORTED ED PUBS The FIRST-CLASS MAIL May 7–11 P.O. BOX 1398 UNITED STATES POSTAGE PAID Teacher Appreciation Week, JESSUP, MD 20794-1398 CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD The PERMIT NO. 557 a celebration sponsored by the Q& VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007 National PTA. Established in Following a yearlong series of public 1984, the week’s observance U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION meetings across the country, the panel will provides an opportunity to A submit a final report early next year. Presi- honor the dedicated educators What is the Department dent Bush is requesting $250 million in his VOL.6, NO.5MAY 2007 www.ed.gov who teach America’s children. doing to improve math and 2008 budget to help states implement these Visit http://www.pta.org or science achievement? recommendations. FAFSA4caster Gives College Hopefuls call toll-free 1-800-307-4782. > Also part of the president’s 2008 budget New Online Tool Simplifies n a recent study, U.S. 15-year-olds request, a proposed $25 million for the cre- Jump Start on Federal Aid Availability ranked 24th out of 29 nations in math ation of the Adjunct Teacher Corps would Financial Aid Process Iliteracy and problem solving, performing encourage well-qualified math and science below the international average. Results of professionals to become adjunct secondary new online tool to help students and fam- student aid, including grants; another study proved just as disconcerting: school teachers. Funds would be used to ilies prepare financially for college before > Reduces the time it will take to complete the INSIDE only 7 percent of fourth- and eighth-graders make competitive grants to partnerships a student’s senior year of high school is Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); achieved an advanced level in math and of school districts and states (or of school A now available. Called the FAFSA4caster, it pro- and Calendar science, compared to 41 percent of students districts and appropriate public or private vides high school juniors with an early estimate > Simplifies the financial aid process for students 2 Virginia Tech University from Singapore. In response to this crisis, institutions) to create opportunities for pro- of their eligibility for federal financial aid, and families. Condolences the U.S. Department of Education has fessionals with subject-matter expertise to which could include a Pell Grant of up The FAFSA4caster allows for an easy May 15 –16 undertaken several new initiatives to help teach secondary school courses in math or to $4,310 based on financial need. transition to FAFSA on the Web, the Around the Country— White House Office of America’s students develop the solid math science, and provide students real-world “Improving college access and online version of the federal appli- Georgia and Texas Faith-Based and Community and science skills needed in today’s global applications for math and science concepts affordability is key to giving more cation. It pre-populates 51 of the economy. being taught in the classroom. 5 Calendar Initiatives Conference, Americans a chance at higher 102 questions on the FAFSA, sig- > Created in 2006 and modeled after the > Since the enactment of the No Child Left education and keeping America nificantly reducing the time it takes Phoenix, sponsored by a Q&A—Improving Math and influential National Reading Panel, the Behind Act in 2002, schools have been competitive,” said U.S. Secretary of for students to complete the FAFSA Science Achievement consortium of federal agencies, National Mathematics Advisory Panel will required to annually assess and report student Education Margaret Spellings, who in their senior year of high school. including the U.S. Department make recommendations based on the best progress in math and reading in an effort to introduced the tool in late March. The FAFSA4caster is available Education News Parents of Education. Part of a series of scientific evidence on the improvement of identify problem areas and inform instruc- “Families need more information— in both English and Spanish at Can Use mathematics education, with a particular tion. By the end of the 2007–08 school year, regional conferences being held sooner—about students’ federal aid eligibility http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov. emphasis on algebra readiness and success. students will also have to be tested in science. Making ED.gov More User-Friendly so that they can plan ahead for college. The Last September, Secretary Spellings announced 6 Making ED.gov More around the country, this meet- User-Friendly FAFSA4caster gives families an important tool her plans to improve the U.S. higher education ing for grassroots leaders will they can use to make decisions about the future.” system, based on the recommendations listed in provide information about News Show Focuses on Teacher Quality The FAFSA4caster: the final report of her Commission on the Future federal grant opportunities. he U.S. Department of Education introduces two new features: > Calculates a student’s eligibility for federal of Higher Education. The report included five has enhanced its Web site, > Secretary’s Corner. This feature highlights Visit http://www.fbci.gov or igh-quality, to recruit, train and > continued on page 2 http://www.ed.gov, to provide a the Department’s key priorities, which focus U.S. Department of Education Rigor in K– 6 call 202-456-6718. effective reward effective teachers; T 400 Maryland Ave. S.W. more user-friendly resource for promoting on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), teaching, and how programs like Washington, DC 20202 H educational excellence for all Americans. higher education and the American Competi- as well as innovative the Teacher Incentive On the Horizon The Achiever is a monthly publication Interdisciplinary Curriculum, Strong Leadership Account approaches to better Fund, along with the The site now has a brighter, more uniform tiveness Initiative. In particular, a fresh This fall, the U.S. Department for parents and community leaders from recruit and retain proposed Adjunct look, and many of the links have been addition, “Meet the Secretary,” provides the Office of Communications and For100-Percent Proficiency at New York School of Education’s Office of English Teacher Corps and streamlined to make navigation much detailed information about U.S. Secretary of Outreach, U.S. Department of Education exceptional teachers, (ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary. Language Acquisition will host will be the focus of the other teacher quality simpler. Education Margaret Spellings: her biography, Discussing a helicopter flight he’d recently taken to care for a While the Web site retains its most speeches, reflections from recent travels, and Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby, the Sixth Annual Celebrate Our May edition of Educa- programs under the editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at critically injured patient, Dr. William Meade, Jr., recalled where Rising Stars Summit, Oct. 29–31 tion News Parents Can American Competitive- popular links—including the four responses to questions from teachers on vari- [email protected]. he first learned the navigational terms “latitude” and “longitude”: in Washington, D.C. Designed Use, the U.S. Department ness Initiative, are categories designed for students, par- ous policy issues. Also included is a sequence Address changes and subscriptions? in elementary school. The 31-year-old physician, who will be of video excerpts spotlighting the secretary’s Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or to help educators of English of Education’s monthly designed to strengthen ents, teachers and administrators—it completing his residency training in emergency medicine at the views on topics ranging from the reautho- [email protected]. University of California–San Diego next June, said he attributes a lot language learners in all grades television program. our nation’s teachers, rization of NCLB to making college more Information on ED programs, resources Nothing is of what he has learned to his primary years at Lincoln Elementary All across the country, schools and students. and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN, achieve academic success, the School in Mount Vernon, N.Y. highly qualified teachers are inspiring excel- Each month, Education News Parents affordable. or [email protected]. summit will highlight best “That’s one of the things that is special about Lincoln—they lence in students. The May broadcast will Can Use showcases: schools and school > Success Stories. Broadening the online The Achiever contains news and information left to practices and research, as well about and from public and private organizations created that strong foundation, that skill set and support showcase several award-winning teachers districts from across the country; conversa- video offerings drawn from the Department’s for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not ‘‘ system, that allows anything to be possible in terms of as provide an opportunity to and explore how effective teaching is at the tions with school officials, parents and monthly television show, Education News constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart- chance. educational accomplishments subsequent to Lincoln,” said network with policymakers at core of America’s long-term economic com- education experts; and advice and free Parents Can Use, this new feature offers ment of Education of any products or services offered or views expressed. This publication Meade, who, with merit-based scholarships, went on to prep local, state and national levels. resources for parents and educators. video clips of schools with promising prac- petitiveness. Among the many features are: also contains hyperlinks and URLs created school and then to Duke University, where he earned both Visit http://www.oelasummit.org. an overview of the current state of the teach- To learn about viewing options, including tices, such as a school in Georgia where and maintained by outside organizations and provided for the reader’s convenience. The his undergraduate and medical degrees. “I think that’s the webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click 100 percent of its third- and fifth-graders ing profession and what is being done to Department is not responsible for the accuracy environment Mr. Albano created by pushing his teachers place a high-quality teacher in every class- on “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use”; are performing at grade level. of this information. > continued on page 2 room; innovative and alternative strategies or call toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN. page 5 page 6 ’’