Whats the ConocoPhillips Rice Elementary Model Science Lab?
The ConocoPhillips Rice Elementary Model Science Lab (CPR Lab) is a professional development program provided by the Rice University Center for Education’s School Science & Technology program. Designed specifically for teachers of elementary science, this program utilizes the Rice Model of professional development to provide teachers with more than 200 hours of training in science content, effective instructional strategies, technology integration and educational leadership during a single academic year.
What is the Rice Model?
The Rice Model is a professional development approach designed to maximize the effectiveness of long-term teacher training programs. The Rice Model has four main components: (1) professional development in science content (2) professional development in science pedagogy such as inquiry teaching and other student centered methods, (3) curriculum resources aligned with state standards and (4) materials and classroom support to teach the new content. A key innovation of this model is that teachers are immersed in learning one full day each week over an entire academic year.
Who can apply to participate in the CPR Lab?
Any teacher of elementary science may apply to in the CPR Lab. The program targets fifth grade teachers who have the potential to become science teacher leaders on their campuses. We are looking for strong teachers who want to take their instructional practice ‘to the next level’. Self-contained and departmentalized fifth grade teachers are invited to apply. Other elementary science teachers including 3rd grade, 4th grade, and multi-grade science lab teachers are welcome to apply but may receive lower priority depending on the number and characteristics of applicants. Space is expected to be VERY LIMITED. Last year we had 250 applicants and could accept only 80 and for 2009-10, we anticipate that the number of applicants may be significantly higher than 250 for the 80 available slots.
I support science instruction on one or more elementary campuses, but do not teach students. Can I apply for the CPR Lab?
Unfortunately, the CPR Lab program is only open to elementary science classroom teachers. We are considering providing professional development specifically targeted at elementary science specialists if there is enough interest. If you are interested in more information please contact us at REMSL@rice.edu.
BACK TO TOP
Where is the CPR Lab located?
The CPR Lab is housed in Treasure Forest Elementary in Spring Branch ISD. Treasure Forest Elementary is located at 7635 Amelia Road in Houston.
How often is the training?
Participants meet once a week for an entire school year for the first year of training, except for certain black-out days due to testing, holidays, etc. Participants receive more than 200 hours of professional development.
Are participating teachers expected to come every week for the entire year?
Yes. While allowances can be made in some situations, attendance each week is a very important part of the professional development experience. Also, graduate credit and a teacher stipend are awarded to participants based on successful completion of the program which includes consistent attendance. Applicants must commit to attending all sessions and campus principals must commit to providing the applicant with release time to attend all sessions.
BACK TO TOP
What is the process for applying to the CPR Lab?
The first step in the application process is to submit the provided Letter of Agreement which outlines the benefits and requirements of participation. This Letter of Agreement must be signed by both the applicant and campus principal. Letters of Agreement should be mailed to the Rice University Center for Education. Contact information for the Center for Education can be found on the Letter of Agreement. Click here for a PDF copy of the letter.
The second step in the process is to complete the online application. In addition to basic contact and demographic information, this application includes questions about the applicant’s educational history, teacher certification, background in science education, teaching history, current teaching placement, and reason for applying to the CPR Lab program. Applicants may find it helpful to have access to undergraduate transcripts and teaching certificates when completing the online application. Click here to access the online application.
Only applicants that have both completed the online application and submitted a signed letter of commitment will be considered for the Lab.
BACK TO TOP
What are my chances of being chosen to participate?
Participants for the Rice Elementary Model Science Lab will be chosen from among those who have submitted all documentation. It is our goal to provide this professional development experience to as many elementary science teachers as possible. While we would like to accept every teacher that applies to the program, we generally get many more applicants than we have room for in the program. Space is expected to be VERY LIMITED. Last year we had 250 applicants and could accept only 80 and for 2009-10, we anticipate that the number of applicants may be significantly higher than 250 for the 80 available slots. Applicants should understand that successfully applying for the program does not guarantee selection. All applicants must agree to participate in either Cohort 1 or Cohort 2 (see below).
What is the difference between Cohort 1 and Cohort 2?
Individuals accepted into Cohort 1 will attend the CPR Lab one full day each week during the 2009-2010 academic year. During the following academic year (2010-11, Cohort 1 participants will complete surveys, tests, and observations and attend additional follow up training sessions of approximately 30 hours. Most of these hours will not be during school hours.
Individuals accepted into Cohort 2 will NOT attend the CPR Lab during 2009-2010. Instead, Cohort 2 participants will complete surveys and tests, test one class of students twice during the year, and be observed twice during the academic year teaching. During the 2010-2011 academic year Cohort 2 participants will attend the CPR Lab one full day each week. Participants in the 2010-11 school year are expected to participate fully by attending all sessions, completing all surveys and tests, submitting all assignments, testing students, and being observed twice during the academic year.
BACK TO TOP
I have more questions. What do I do?
Further questions can be emailed to REMSL@rice.edu
|
