REGISTRATION DEADLINE (no exceptions): March 20, 2003
In support of the Smart Step Initiative, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) announces an opportunity for schools to participate in the Smart Step Literacy Lab Classroom Project.
The goal of the project is to provide long-term professional development for teams of middle level (Grades 5-8) administrators and reading/language arts teachers for the purpose of establishing exemplary classrooms using the Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop approach to language arts instruction. The Department of Education works collaboratively with Harding University and mid-level literacy professor, Ken Stamatis, to provide this professional development opportunity.
Participation requires a three-year commitment by the school administration and participating staff members. ADE will provide the following expenses for the professional development:
--classroom materials
--professional texts
--consultant expenses
School districts will be responsible for all training expenses. Administrators and teachers should read the attached documents carefully to fully understand the responsibilities of participating in the project.
An orientation will be held on April 24, 2003, to fully inform prospective participants of the goals, responsibilities, and timeline for the professional development. Schools interested in attending the Orientation should return the INTENT TO PARTICIPATE form by March 20, 2003, to the following address:
K-12 Literacy Unit
Arkansas Department of Education
#4 Capitol Mall, Room 401 B
Little Rock, AR 72201