Innovative Ideas Classroom Grants - Spring 2005

Campus: F.C. Weinert Elementary
Proposal: Literacy Skills Test to Improve TAKS Reading Scores in Fifth Grade

Abstract: Obtain a wide reading level range of Literacy Skills test for Accelerated Reader at the F.C. Weinert Campus to improve the reading skills of the fifth grade students with monies from the Seguin Education Foundation. Plus, use the tests to monitor growth on skills tested on TAKS. Approved with Recommendations.

Campus: Ball Elementary
Proposal: Summer Learning Zone

Abstract: Summer school will be held for 10 days prior to Seguin ISD's starting date. Fourth and fifth grade participants will be selected based on their 2004-2005 TAKS scores in reading and math. Third grade participants will be selected based on their end of year TPRI. Summer School will be (3) hours long and focus on a student's specific deficiencies. The classes will be limited to eight (8) students per grade level and a pupil/teacher ratio of 8:1. Materials to be used include: Step Up to TAKS - Reading, Step Up to TAKS - Math, TAKS - Lectura and TAKS - Matematica, and Cheryl Cox materials in reading and math.

Campuses: Jim Barnes Middle School and A.J. Briesemeister Middle School
Proposal: Ignite Learning for the 7th Grade

Abstract: Barnes Middle School and Briesemeister Middle School are cooperatively seeking funds for Ignite Learning in the 7th grade. Ignite Learning is a web-based academic publisher that integrates social studies TEKS into a multimedia format including, but not limited to, video clips, songs, and animations. Social studies classes are technologically ready to use this program. The purchase of Ignite will aide teachers in reaching students with different learning styles such as musical, visual, and auditory. Using Ignite in the classroom increases student comprehension and will help improve student scores on standardized testing.

Campus: Jefferson Avenue Elementary
Proposal: TAKS Science Olympics

Abstract: All 5th grade students would have the opportunity to participate in a one day a week after-school tutorial for a four week time span in March and April of 2005. The activities will be designed in game format to boost student self esteem, confidence, knowledge, and skills to help students achieve their greatest potential and attain mastery on the 2005 Science TAKS test. Approved with Recommendations.

Campus: Joe F. Saegert 6th Grade Center
Proposal: Saegert Intramural Program

Abstract: To build an intramural program that enables the students participating to have a sense of belonging to the school which will increase the student's self esteem and sense of worth. Research demonstrates that when students have a sense of belonging to their school they do better academically, develop increased pride and worth, and are better socially adjusted, resulting in decreased discipline referrals as well. Approved with Recommendations.

Campus: A.J. Briesemeister
Proposal: Building a Better, More Beautiful Briesemeister

Abstract: Last spring, 10 AJB students with two adults attended a workshop called "Building Connections" by Mark Scharenbroich. He showed many ways of enhancing the school's climate that resulted in students being more connected to the school. We loved the presentation and would like to incorporate some of these ideas. We want to add some permanent seating in front of our school for students/parents/staff to use. The Technical Education II class would build seating around our trees in the front of the school that would enhance the aesthetics of our campus - even to those driving on Court Street. Approved with Recommendations.

Campus: Jim Barnes Middle School
Proposal: Jim Barnes Science Lab Probeware for Learning

Abstract: Technology today has created many innovations for science education. The introduction of science Probeware, hardware designed to measure, record and analyze data in a portable handheld devise is another example of technology enhancing science education. The PS-2000 GLX Xplorer can be used as a stand-alone data logger or expand its capabilities by plugging into classroom computers. This will allow students to develop high tech projects with comprehensive data. The Probeware will increase students understanding of their data and provide practical experience in future science endeavors. The Probeware will also encourage student creativity by allowing them to capture and display science data in real time, either in the field or in the classroom. Approved with Recommendations.

Campus: Juan Seguin Pre-Kindergarten
Proposal: How Does Our Garden Grow?

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to create a year-round gardening opportunity that engages students as active hands-on learners. To achieve this goal, we will need to provide a vandal-proof area. Funds will be used to construct an 8-foot high fence to enclose an area of approximately 50 feet by 30 feet adjacent to an existing building. Within the fence will be two 50 feet by 5 feet raised beds, 16 inches deep. This project is directly aligned with all aspects of the curriculum. It is developmentally appropriate because preschool children learn best through direct sensory experiences and hands-on discovery. Approved with Recommendations.