Urban Systemic Program (USP) in Science , Mathematics, and Technology Education : San Antonio Mathematics Science Project

San Antonio Independent School District, San Antonio TX

Investigators

Abstract

The San Antonio Urban Systemic Program ABSTRACT The San Antonio Urban Systemic Program (SAUSP) plans to promote full implementation of K-12 standards-based, inquiry-centered curricula in a coalition of nine school districts through the organization of elementary, middle, and high schools in K-12 school-feeder patterns served by teams of coaches. In order to increase the competency of the instructional workforce to accomplish this goal, San Antonio plans to implement a comprehensive professional development program in close collaboration with local institutions of higher education. A Citywide Monitoring System will provide for evaluation of student understanding of mathematics and science. This system will include a set of performance tasks to evaluate instructional practices and curriculum implementation, a web-based curriculum network to support excellence in instruction providing high-quality assessments and examples of standards-based instruction, and the use of district-based equity teams to specifically address the achievement gaps between ethnic and socioeconomic groups. Consistent with this end, participating districts have proposed the development of a new assessment system that is fully congruent and supportive of effective implementation of standards-based curricula. Furthermore, in order to secure a permanent coordination of a community coalition comprised of K-12 educators, business and community members, and the university sector, the SAUSP will establish a K-16 Implementation Team. A comprehensive evaluation plan will enable the leadership to assess progress in every component of the Initiative; gather, interpret and use data to inform the planning and decision-making process.