The Department of Education, in conjunction with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), is pleased to announce the award of a federal grant to improve and increase access to College Board Advanced Placement® classes for Arkansas high school students.
The Arkansas Teams Access Project, supported by the Advanced Placement (AP) Incentive Program, allows for formation and support of Vertical Teams in schools where 40% or more of the student body is eligible for free or reduced lunch. Primary consideration will be given to those schools above 75% in this category. The purpose of this grant is to expand the College Board Advanced Placement program to teachers, schools, and students not currently served.
An AP Vertical Team ™ is a group of educators from different grade levels (emphasis on middle school participation) in a given discipline who work cooperatively to develop and implement a vertically aligned program aimed at helping students acquire the academic skills necessary for success in the Advanced Placement program and improving academic performance for all students.
Twelve to fifteen teams will be offered professional development by College Board consultants through a Vertical Teams academy in conjunction with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Advanced Placement Summer Institute. Teachers in these schools have not previously worked together as Vertical Teams. Based on interest, level of district commitment and support, and Vertical Teams Academy attendance, five teams will be selected for intensive professional development in team building and curriculum development.
Technical assistance for applications will be offered January 29, 2003, in the auditorium of the Arkansas Department of Education, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Interested parties who fit the guidelines stated above are encouraged to attend.
Applications are contained within the Vertical Teams brochures being mailed from UALR to qualified districts/schools. Deadline is March 1, 2003. Notice that both the principal and the superintendent must sign the application. For questions concerning the application or the application process, please call the Center for Gifted Education at UALR, 501-569-3410.