Tu Luong Foundation Library

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Internet based resources will be identified, compiled and presented to staff by Project RIGHT2  (Reaching Instructional Goals with Hi-Tech Tools) coordinator.  

Reach for the Stars will involve parents and community members as partners in the education process by utilizing their skills and knowledge to support the development of a junior astronomers club.  Community leaders have committed to provide leadership and support in this exciting endeavor to help our students “Reach for the Stars” both literally and figuratively.

Methods to Implement Project

In the fall of 2000, Green Bank National Radio Astronomy Observatory staff will provide teachers, parents and community partners with multi-faceted training.  The first phase of staff development will prepare participants to fully utilize the existing optical telescope at XYZ Elementary School.  Secondly, STARLAB training will be the focus of attention so that our students can utilize the STARLAB during school hours.  In this way, we can ensure that all students will have the opportunity to explore the vast expanse of our universe in an exciting and meaningful manner.  Finally, Hands-On Universe training will be provided to interested teachers throughout our county.  Software necessary to support trained teachers will be purchased as part of this project.

[Name omitted] and [Name omitted], prominent members of the community who have volunteered their time and expertise to support this project, have both agreed to come into the classroom and provide astronomy related, hands-on activities.  [Name omitted] and [Name omitted] have agreed to assist with the astronomy club and provide expertise to enhance this project.  Julia Colaw math/science/technology instructor and Project RIGHT2 coordinator will provide technical support and assistance to all staff in utilizing the STARLAB, telescope, and computer software.  Mrs. Colaw will also serve as the teacher supervisor for the astronomy club.

A star party will be held as a kick-off activity to encourage participation in the astronomy club.  Students and their families will participate in an evening of star related activities and have the opportunity to hear knowledgeable guest speakers.  Learning stations including the STARLAB and the optical telescope will be staffed and available for exploration.

Project Evaluation

Evaluation of Reach for the Stars success will be tri-fold.  The first component of this evaluation will be the completion of planned professional development activities.  Once trained, teachers will be able to utilize the STARLAB, Hands on Universe Curriculum, and telescope.  Each teacher who participates in this project will document classroom activities utilizing the digital camera, video camera or media coverage.  This documentation will be compiled and presented at the WVTEAMS conference and at state level science conferences.

The second part of this evaluation will be to measure the extent of parental involvement in this project.  Currently there are no academic clubs or activities meeting after school hours.  Through this project we will increase parental involvement and provided extended learning opportunities for students.  The facilitator will log participation in after school activities by students, parents and community partners.

The third aspect of evaluation will occur by an examination of standardized test scores of 3rd –6th grade students for the 2000-2001 school year.  A successful project will show an increase in science test scores for students involved in this program.