Major Initiatives

SPIR Vision and Expectations

• Clearly defined goals for the science program which are consistent with state/national standards, known by both school personnel and the community, and reviewed on a regular basis
• Consistent use of data for program assessment, planning, and improvement efforts
• A well defined science curriculum or "program of study" that integrates the use of technology and accommodates individual student learning styles
• An effective instructional program based on research on how students learn and is reflective of best practice, including an inquiry approach to the study of the natural and physical world
• High quality instructional resources easily accessible to teachers and students
• Evidence of meaningful science activity in the classrooms; projects, displays of student work, science bulletin boards, etc.
• A variety of documentation of student progress and student participation in science
• Teachers familiar with the science curriculum and confident in their ability to teach science
• Copies of the State’s Assessment Guidelines in Science, Program of Studies, and National Science Education Standards are available and used by teachers
• Evidence of long-range, unit, and daily planning for science instruction
• Positive attitudes from faculty, staff, parents, and students
• Administrative support for science instruction
• Parent/community involvement in and support of science program
• A System of "program” accountability and alignment of teaching to program standards
• Science targeted in consolidated plan and reviewed/monitored for progress regularly
• Technology tools are readily accessible and there is evidence of their use to enhance data collection, interpretation, and communication
• Equity within the science program, i.e., all students have equal access to high quality science instruction as evidenced by high achievement by males and females, minorities, and students from low socio-economic background