2007 GRANT RECIPIENTS
Podcasting – Hear All About Us!: Finn/Woodward/Neary
The technology staff, once trained in Podcasting technique, will record and replay key events at Southborough’s three elementary schools. Students will be able to view and critique their own presentations, and can view special school events they missed due to absences. Your Finn, Woodward and Neary students will “star” in podcast productions!
Woodward Literacy Lab: Woodward
The lab, based on the successful lab created through an SEF grant last year at Neary, will provide students and teachers the opportunity to improve literacy through individualized learning and collaborative techniques to enhance reading fluency. The lab provides parent and professional resources, as well as Whisper Phones and CD listening stations.
Mobile Publishing Center: Neary
Research tells us that many methods can be used to improve writing instruction, but bringing writing to the publication stage is one of the most beneficial additions to any writing program. The mobile publishing center will be used by all 4th and 5th grade Neary students. Students are first taught writing technique using the 6+1 Trait Writing program, previously funded by SEF. To complete the students’ written work, they will now be able to publish their pieces using the Mobile Publishing Center.
8th Grade Elective Program: Trottier
This program expands the choices for electives offered to 8th graders. Previously, those students not participating in band, orchestra or chorus had few options for electives, and often spent this time in study hall. Under this new program, twenty new courses ranging from “3-Dimensional Art”, to “Chefs and Bakers”, to “Electronic Communication” and “Journalism” will be available to all 8th grade students.
Worms are Wonderful: Trottier
A joint effort between the science and guidance departments, this project focuses on educating students to the importance of worms and recycling. Students will collect food scraps that would have been thrown in the garbage, and “feed” the worms, thereby producing compost.
The Learning Equation: RM Math
This ground-breaking grant will radically change the way Trottier students learn math. The RM Math Frameworks software, currently used in the Dover-Sherborn school system, enables interactive, hands-on learning. The program allows teachers to differentiate more easily, and it enables collaboration among teachers. The RM software, along with interactive Smart Boards and projectors comprise this grant. SEF is excited to bring the RM Math program to Southborough.
