Iowa Science Standards Implementation Plan Released

The Iowa Department of Education presented to members of the State Board of Education a comprehensive plan to implement Iowa’s science standards over the next few years, starting with the 2016-17 school year.

The Department is providing a fact sheet for teachers, a fact sheet for parents and a frequently asked questions document, each of which may be customized to fit individual district needs. Share this information with your staff, especially those involved in science instruction. For more information, contact Kris Kilibarda, Iowa Department of Education science consultant, at Kris.Kilibarda@iowa.gov.

Our Mission

To provide services and leadership, in partnership with families, schools and communities, that improve the learning outcomes and well-being of all children and youth.

Our Goals

• Increase learning growth for students

• Decrease gaps in achievement

• Increase annual graduation rates

• Increase gateways to post-secondary success 

New ELL PD Opportunities: Language Objectives & GO TO Strategies

Course registration is now available for this foundational English Language Learners (ELL) learning opportunity that focuses on how to infuse language objectives into content classrooms and introduces basic strategies that enable teachers to plan scaffolded, yet rigorous and relevant content lessons for ELLs.

Choose to attend either the Elementary or the Secondary session. Both sessions will be co-facilitated by Laura Lukens and Linda New Levine, Ph.D. of GO TO Educational Services.

Language Objectives and GO TO Strategies for Elementary ELLs
Date: March 21, 2016
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Location: Heartland AEA, Johnston Regional Education Center, 6500 Corporate Drive, Rooms 152 A/B/C
Register: Here

Language Objectives and GO TO Strategies for Secondary ELLs
Date: March 22, 2016
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Location: Heartland AEA, Johnston Regional Education Center, 6500 Corporate Drive, Rooms 152 A/B/C
Register: Here

Other Information:

• Participants will leave with abundant resources for scaffolding instruction for ELLs, including the complete GO TO Strategy materials and handouts of workshop activities.
• ESL and non-ESL teachers and administrators are encouraged to attend.
• District Claim Forms: Title III funds are available to cover the cost of substitute teachers. District claim forms will be available at the event.
• Individual Claim Forms: If off contract due to spring break, an individual stipend of $200 will be provided. Individual claim forms will be available at the event. This stipend is only available to participants whose spring break coincides with this training.
• Lunch will be on your own from 11:30-12:45, with morning and afternoon breaks.