REGISTRATION DEADLINE (no exceptions): May 6, 2005
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 a comprehensive literacy approach to language arts instruction. Additional team members (Grades 4-12) may be considered for this training opportunity. The ADE works collaboratively with Harding University and mid-level literacy professor, Dr. Ken Stamatis, to provide this professional development opportunity. Training capacity is limited and priority will be given to schools in school improvement.
Participation requires a three-year commitment by the school administration and participating staff members.
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. Print the Responsibilities form in LANDSCAPE.
An orientation will be held on May 11, 2005, to fully inform prospective participants of the goals, responsibilities, and timeline for the professional development. All interested participants should plan to attend.
Schools interested in attending the Orientation should return the INTENT TO ATTEND ORIENTATION form by May 6, 2005 to Ben Ellis at bellis@arkedu.k12.ar.us.
Upon receipt of the INTENT TO ATTEND ORIENTATION form, Mr. Ellis will email additional information to the email address of the principal.