Calendar May 7–11

Teacher Appreciation Week,

a celebration sponsored by the
National PTA. Established in
1984, the week’s observance
QA &
Following a yearlong series of public
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
ED PUBS
P.O. BOX 1398
JESSUP, MD 20794-1398
The

VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007

PRESORTED
FIRST- CLASS MAIL
UNITED STATES POSTAGE PAID
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD
PERMIT NO. 557
The
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
meetings across the country, the panel will
provides an opportunity to
submit a final report early next year. Presi-
honor the dedicated educators What is the Department dent Bush is requesting $250 million in his VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007 www.ed.gov
who teach America’s children. doing to improve math and 2008 budget to help states implement these
Visit http://www.pta.org or
call toll-free 1-800-307-4782.
science achievement? recommendations.
> Also part of the president’s 2008 budget FAFSA4caster Gives College Hopefuls New Online Tool Simplifies
I Financial Aid Process
n a recent study, U.S. 15-year-olds request, a proposed $25 million for the cre- Jump Start on Federal Aid Availability
ranked 24th out of 29 nations in math ation of the Adjunct Teacher Corps would
literacy and problem solving, performing encourage well-qualified math and science

A
below the international average. Results of professionals to become adjunct secondary new online tool to help students and fam- student aid, including grants;
another study proved just as disconcerting: school teachers. Funds would be used to ilies prepare financially for college before > Reduces the time it will take to complete the I N S I D E
only 7 percent of fourth- and eighth-graders make competitive grants to partnerships a student’s senior year of high school is Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
achieved an advanced level in math and of school districts and states (or of school now available. Called the FAFSA4caster, it pro- and
science, compared to 41 percent of students districts and appropriate public or private vides high school juniors with an early estimate > Simplifies the financial aid process for students 2 Virginia Tech University
from Singapore. In response to this crisis, institutions) to create opportunities for pro- of their eligibility for federal financial aid, and families. Condolences
the U.S. Department of Education has fessionals with subject-matter expertise to which could include a Pell Grant of up The FAFSA4caster allows for an easy
May 15 –16 undertaken several new initiatives to help teach secondary school courses in math or to $4,310 based on financial need. transition to FAFSA on the Web, the Around the Country—

White House Office of America’s students develop the solid math science, and provide students real-world “Improving college access and online version of the federal appli- Georgia and Texas

Faith-Based and Community and science skills needed in today’s global applications for math and science concepts affordability is key to giving more cation. It pre-populates 51 of the 5 Calendar
economy. being taught in the classroom. Americans a chance at higher 102 questions on the FAFSA, sig-
Initiatives Conference,
> Created in 2006 and modeled after the > Since the enactment of the No Child Left education and keeping America nificantly reducing the time it takes Q&A—Improving Math and
Phoenix, sponsored by a influential National Reading Panel, the Behind Act in 2002, schools have been competitive,” said U.S. Secretary of for students to complete the FAFSA Science Achievement
consortium of federal agencies, National Mathematics Advisory Panel will required to annually assess and report student Education Margaret Spellings, who in their senior year of high school.
including the U.S. Department make recommendations based on the best progress in math and reading in an effort to introduced the tool in late March. The FAFSA4caster is available Education News Parents

of Education. Part of a series of scientific evidence on the improvement of identify problem areas and inform instruc- “Families need more information— in both English and Spanish at Can Use
mathematics education, with a particular tion. By the end of the 2007–08 school year, sooner—about students’ federal aid eligibility http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov.
regional conferences being held 6 Making ED.gov More
emphasis on algebra readiness and success. students will also have to be tested in science. Making ED.gov More User-Friendly so that they can plan ahead for college. The Last September, Secretary Spellings announced
around the country, this meet- User-Friendly
FAFSA4caster gives families an important tool her plans to improve the U.S. higher education
ing for grassroots leaders will they can use to make decisions about the future.” system, based on the recommendations listed in
provide information about News Show Focuses on Teacher Quality The FAFSA4caster: the final report of her Commission on the Future

T
federal grant opportunities. he U.S. Department of Education introduces two new features: > Calculates a student’s eligibility for federal of Higher Education. The report included five
has enhanced its Web site, > Secretary’s Corner. This feature highlights

H
Visit http://www.fbci.gov or igh-quality, to recruit, train and > continued on page 2
effective reward effective teachers; http://www.ed.gov, to provide a the Department’s key priorities, which focus U.S. Department of Education Rigor in K– 6
call 202-456-6718. 400 Maryland Ave. S.W.
teaching, and how programs like more user-friendly resource for promoting on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB),

On the Horizon as well as innovative

approaches to better
the Teacher Incentive
Fund, along with the
educational excellence for all Americans.
The site now has a brighter, more uniform
higher education and the American Competi-
tiveness Initiative. In particular, a fresh
Washington, DC 20202

The Achiever is a monthly publication

Interdisciplinary Curriculum, Strong Leadership Account
This fall, the U.S. Department
of Education’s Office of English
recruit and retain proposed Adjunct look, and many of the links have been
streamlined to make navigation much
addition, “Meet the Secretary,” provides
detailed information about U.S. Secretary of
for parents and community leaders from
the Office of Communications and
Outreach, U.S. Department of Education
For100-Percent Proficiency at New York School
exceptional teachers, Teacher Corps and
(ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary.
Language Acquisition will host will be the focus of the other teacher quality simpler. Education Margaret Spellings: her biography, Discussing a helicopter flight he’d recently taken to care for a
Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby,
the Sixth Annual Celebrate Our While the Web site retains its most speeches, reflections from recent travels, and

‘‘
May edition of Educa- programs under the editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at critically injured patient, Dr. William Meade, Jr., recalled where
Rising Stars Summit, Oct. 29–31 tion News Parents Can American Competitive- popular links—including the four responses to questions from teachers on vari- [email protected]. he first learned the navigational terms “latitude” and “longitude”:
in Washington, D.C. Designed Use, the U.S. Department ness Initiative, are categories designed for students, par- ous policy issues. Also included is a sequence Address changes and subscriptions? in elementary school. The 31-year-old physician, who will be
of Education’s monthly designed to strengthen ents, teachers and administrators—it of video excerpts spotlighting the secretary’s Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or completing his residency training in emergency medicine at the
to help educators of English
language learners in all grades
achieve academic success, the
television program.
All across the country,
our nation’s teachers,
schools and students.
views on topics ranging from the reautho-
rization of NCLB to making college more
[email protected].
Information on ED programs, resources
and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN,
Nothing is University of California–San Diego next June, said he attributes a lot
of what he has learned to his primary years at Lincoln Elementary
School in Mount Vernon, N.Y.
summit will highlight best
practices and research, as well
highly qualified teachers are inspiring excel-
lence in students. The May broadcast will
Each month, Education News Parents
Can Use showcases: schools and school
affordable.
> Success Stories. Broadening the online
video offerings drawn from the Department’s
or [email protected].
The Achiever contains news and information
about and from public and private organizations
left to “That’s one of the things that is special about Lincoln—they
created that strong foundation, that skill set and support
districts from across the country; conversa-
as provide an opportunity to
network with policymakers at
showcase several award-winning teachers
and explore how effective teaching is at the
core of America’s long-term economic com-
tions with school officials, parents and
education experts; and advice and free
monthly television show, Education News
Parents Can Use, this new feature offers
for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not
constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart-
ment of Education of any products or services
chance. system, that allows anything to be possible in terms of
educational accomplishments subsequent to Lincoln,” said
video clips of schools with promising prac- offered or views expressed. This publication Meade, who, with merit-based scholarships, went on to prep
local, state and national levels. petitiveness. Among the many features are: resources for parents and educators. also contains hyperlinks and URLs created
tices, such as a school in Georgia where school and then to Duke University, where he earned both
Visit http://www.oelasummit.org. an overview of the current state of the teach- To learn about viewing options, including and maintained by outside organizations and
100 percent of its third- and fifth-graders provided for the reader’s convenience. The his undergraduate and medical degrees. “I think that’s the
ing profession and what is being done to webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click Department is not responsible for the accuracy environment Mr. Albano created by pushing his teachers
place a high-quality teacher in every class- on “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use”; are performing at grade level. of this information.
> continued on page 2
room; innovative and alternative strategies or call toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN.
page 5 page 6
> continued from page 1 > continued from page 1

major recommendations for improving to get the most out of their students.” students did so in math as well as in read- nots when it comes to enriching academic For instance, more than a decade ago, for example, morphs into a classroom discus- teacher using bouncing balls to demonstrate From left to right: Albano with students Kenja-Rae and Mizraim; Mesisco (center)
college access, affordability and accountabil- Meade was referring to Principal ing in 2006.) opportunities. “Just because you’re born into a the retired spouse of one of the teachers sion about how writing has its own collection the theory of velocity. The children, who by with some of the Star Search participants; fourth-graders Tayler and Isaiah play
ity: 1) aligning K–12 and higher education George Albano, whose 27-year leadership Moreover, when the state of New York certain race or neighborhood, you should not volunteered to start a chess club at Lincoln. of tools, such as a “grabber” or engaging second grade already have learned the differ- chess; and Mullins along with fifth-graders Juliana, Ashley and Anthony anticipate
expectations; 2) increasing need-based aid has been widely credited for the school’s tested additional grades for the first time be denied what wealthy people can afford,” The children became so adept at the game— introduction, which the children would ence between a dependent and an independent a rocket’ s distance. On the cover, Vaccaro, holding a spherical dodecahedron,
for access and success of low-income legendary success. Honored last year last year, Lincoln’s third- through sixth- he said. “We’ve got to stop making excuses. winning several local competitions—that a need to employ for their journal assignment variable, use balloons that simulate rockets with student Eleidalee. Photos by Tom McWilliam, Jr.
students; 3) using accreditation to support as a No Child Left Behind–Blue Ribbon graders proved consistently strong in both We have an obligation to give the children private donor gave a sizeable grant toward describing the imaginary expedition. to test their hypotheses on how far they will
and emphasize student learning outcomes; School for consistent high academic subjects. Even fifth-graders’ scores, which in these schools what everyone else gets.” funding the training services of chess masters. “Everything is interdisciplinary,” said travel based on the measure of inflated air. Woven also into this academic framework cups in paint and gluing together three
4) serving adults and other nontraditional achievement, Lincoln has increasingly were a little lower than those for other That means assigning students at Lincoln Today, this expert instruction is the center of teacher Mary Anderson, whose husband Classroom lessons at Lincoln draw regu- are the arts. To learn about the water cycle, color groups to construct a disco ball-like
students; and 5) enhancing affordability,

Photo courtesy of U.S. Em-

attracted both local and national attention grades, were still considerably higher than highly sophisticated projects that involve a class held twice a week that teaches stu- started the chess club. “There isn’t a way to larly from a stock of manipulatives and first-graders sing with piano accompaniment geometric structure called a “spherical
decreasing costs and promoting productivity. for its rigorous yet innovative approach state averages (77 percent in math and creating dioramas depicting artifacts from dents not only the art of chess but also the separate the subjects. There isn’t a way that props—including microscopes, magnifying a catchy song written by the music teacher: dodecahedron.” In a well-connected cur-
The release of the FAFSA4caster puts into the Precambrian to the Cenozoic eras and critical thinking skills necessary for reading you could teach, say, fractions without them glasses and miniature models—that fill three “Water travels in a cycle. Yes, it does. Yes, it riculum, said art teacher Jennifer Vaccaro,
to elementary education. 76 percent in reading, compared to
place one of the secretary’s action steps in does. … Goes up as evaporation. Comes “nothing is left to chance.”
The largest elementary school in the 68 percent and 67 percent, respectively). teaching Latin in a study of Julius Caesar. and math. learning the vocabulary—the concept of walk-in closets supplied mostly through gen-
response to these recommendations.
Mount Vernon City School District with Revealing an even more brilliant Yet, to make these types of enriching expe- By integrating subject matter across the numbers and languages together.” erous donations from science institutes and down as condensation. Rains down as Last year, reading specialist Diana Mesisco
nearly 800 children, Lincoln has reached picture, the most recent disaggregated riences possible at a school with a 54-percent curriculum—even in a nontraditional class- As faculty members collaborate across used the performing arts as a platform to
capacity due largely to the out-of-bound- poverty rate takes more than dollars and room activity like chess—Lincoln has disciplines and grade levels to prepare launch a schoolwide literacy incentive pro-
ary enrollment of students by parents cents. “Would I welcome more money?” created a seamless tapestry of learning lesson plans, interdisciplinary instruc- gram called “Star Search” inspired by the
Our Condolences … who have heard of its remarkable reputa- asked Albano. “Yes. But to me that’s that allows students to experience first- tion is seen as both a team-building and popular television show American Idol.
tion. “For anyone who cares enough another cop-out. You have to be hand the meaningful, interactive world a time-efficient approach. “People say Students were asked to write an original
about their child to want something innovative. What I’ve done is used of knowledge. A second-grade science lesson we don’t have enough time in elementary song about the plot or a character from

I
n response to the shootings on the
campus of Virginia Tech University better, I’m not going to deny that,” said our success to excite people, because in which students describe the tools they [to cover all the material], but the key is their favorite book, then invited to perform
on April 16, President George W. Bush Albano, regarding the 30–40 special there are a lot of good people out would bring on a fossil hunt, integrating the subjects,” said Albano. in a competition judged by a panel of
and U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret permission requests granted each year. there who want Science and math, in particular, are often parents and teachers. Along with a medal
Spellings issued the following statements “At Lincoln, the children are chal- to make a the center of this multidisciplinary experi- award, participants were treated to a sur-
of support: lenged and made to believe they can difference.” ence. For a fifth-grade project prise performance by American Idol’s own
excel,” explained Delia Farquharson, about rockets, teacher Dawn Julia DeMato, who reached 10th place in
“… Laura and I and many across our who transferred her nine-year-old daugh- Mullins builds on an exercise the show’s second season.
nation are praying for the victims and ter, Kenja-Rae, there last fall following led by the physical education While the ingenuity of these efforts clearly
their families and all the members of her disappointment with the neighbor- has been the hard work of the staff, many
the university community who have hood school. “So I could not leave her of whom have taught at Lincoln for at least
been devastated by this terri- in an environment where she was at risk 15 years, all agree that none of it would be
ble tragedy. … Schools of being taught that mediocrity is okay.” possible without the longstanding leadership
should be places of Demographically, Lincoln is the typical of Principal Albano. “I believe lots of schools
safety and sanctuary multicultural school on the urban fringe, have good teachers, but it takes a great instruc-
and learning. When seated in a racially and economically tional leader to really bring out the best in
that sanctuary diverse suburb of New York City and them,” said Mesisco.
is violated, the facing challenges similar An educator who could have retired five
impact is felt in to its city counter- other organizations. precipitation. Yes, it does. Yes, it does.” years ago at age 55, Albano is considered
every American parts. However, data (2005) by ethnicity and “No one wants to sit all day and read Following a few song rehearsals, the focus a tireless advocate for better
classroom and every academically, it economic levels showed African- something from a book,” said Mullins about turns to a language arts lesson dividing the schooling for the less-
American community.” is anything but American and white students, the hands-on learning. “And I don’t think scientific terms into syllables, finishing with than-privileged. “I’m
—President Bush ordinary. Since along with those qualifying for they’ll remember years from now if someone a discussion of the technical stages of the here because I’m on a
2002, nearly free and reduced-price lunches, were to ask them about the relationship water cycle. mission to just not tell
“As the mother every fourth-grader performed equally well on the between velocity and distance. I don’t think Like the music session, art class is another you it works, but to
of a daughter in has met or exceeded state exam. it really makes an impression on them if occasion to explore complex themes, as stu- show you it does.”
college, my heart state standards in read- For Albano, closing the achieve- they aren’t actively involved.” dents learn the difference between a polygon
—BY NICOLE ASHBY
goes out to the ing and math. (In 2004 ment gap is a matter of closing the and a polyhedron by dipping small paper

Lincoln Elementary School

parents of the stu- and 2005, 100 percent of gap between the haves and have-
dents who lost their lives and to
the entire Virginia Tech community on
this sad day. My Department is work-
ing with the White House and other AROUND THE COUNTRY
agencies to identify what resources > Grade Span: K–6 > Special Education Students: 16%
can be provided to Virginia Tech as the GEORGIA—More than 8,500 high Technology), wrapped up its 16th and TEXAS—The National Math and Science grants in up to 10 states for training and
university assesses its needs.” school students from across the country largest-ever season. It followed 37 regional Initiative, whose goal is to foster the next incentive programs for Advanced Placement > Locale: Suburban > Percentage Proficient: In reading, 100%;
with 344 robots competed at the Geor- competitions held in March, from which teams generation of scientists and engineers, was (AP) and pre-AP courses, and up to 10 colleges in math, 99% (based on fourth-graders
> Total Students: 754
—Secretary Spellings gia Dome in Atlanta for the 2007 FIRST were invited to the championship based on their launched in March by leaders in the education and universities for the replication of the assessed on the 2006 state exam).
> Race/Ethnicity Enrollment:
Secretary Spellings is asking for suggestions Robotics Competition Championship, performance in competitive play, sportsmanship community and ExxonMobil with $125 million UTeach program, which encourages math > Interesting Fact: Since 2002, nearly
50% African-American, 25% Hispanic,
held April 12–14. Free and open to the and the development of partnerships among in initial support from that corporation. Based and science majors to enter the teaching every fourth-grader at Lincoln has met or
from the public about school safety via 23% white, 2% Asian
public, the annual event, administered schools, businesses and communities. FIRST in Dallas, the nonprofit initiative seeks to profession. Within five years, the initiative exceeded state standards in reading and
e-mail to her at [email protected]. > Free and Reduced-Price Lunch math. In 2004 and 2005, 100 percent
by the public charity FIRST (For Inspi- participants are eligible for nearly $8 million improve U.S. global competitiveness by plans to expand these programs to 150
Eligible: 54% of students did so in math as well as in
ration and Recognition of Science and in college scholarships. expanding two programs that have proven suc- school districts in 20 states and to more
reading in 2006.
cessful in Texas schools. This fall, it will award than 50 campuses nationwide. > English Language Learners: 28%
page 2 page 3 page 4
> continued from page 1 > continued from page 1

major recommendations for improving to get the most out of their students.” students did so in math as well as in read- nots when it comes to enriching academic For instance, more than a decade ago, for example, morphs into a classroom discus- teacher using bouncing balls to demonstrate From left to right: Albano with students Kenja-Rae and Mizraim; Mesisco (center)
college access, affordability and accountabil- Meade was referring to Principal ing in 2006.) opportunities. “Just because you’re born into a the retired spouse of one of the teachers sion about how writing has its own collection the theory of velocity. The children, who by with some of the Star Search participants; fourth-graders Tayler and Isaiah play
ity: 1) aligning K–12 and higher education George Albano, whose 27-year leadership Moreover, when the state of New York certain race or neighborhood, you should not volunteered to start a chess club at Lincoln. of tools, such as a “grabber” or engaging second grade already have learned the differ- chess; and Mullins along with fifth-graders Juliana, Ashley and Anthony anticipate
expectations; 2) increasing need-based aid has been widely credited for the school’s tested additional grades for the first time be denied what wealthy people can afford,” The children became so adept at the game— introduction, which the children would ence between a dependent and an independent a rocket’ s distance. On the cover, Vaccaro, holding a spherical dodecahedron,
for access and success of low-income legendary success. Honored last year last year, Lincoln’s third- through sixth- he said. “We’ve got to stop making excuses. winning several local competitions—that a need to employ for their journal assignment variable, use balloons that simulate rockets with student Eleidalee. Photos by Tom McWilliam, Jr.
students; 3) using accreditation to support as a No Child Left Behind–Blue Ribbon graders proved consistently strong in both We have an obligation to give the children private donor gave a sizeable grant toward describing the imaginary expedition. to test their hypotheses on how far they will
and emphasize student learning outcomes; School for consistent high academic subjects. Even fifth-graders’ scores, which in these schools what everyone else gets.” funding the training services of chess masters. “Everything is interdisciplinary,” said travel based on the measure of inflated air. Woven also into this academic framework cups in paint and gluing together three
4) serving adults and other nontraditional achievement, Lincoln has increasingly were a little lower than those for other That means assigning students at Lincoln Today, this expert instruction is the center of teacher Mary Anderson, whose husband Classroom lessons at Lincoln draw regu- are the arts. To learn about the water cycle, color groups to construct a disco ball-like
students; and 5) enhancing affordability,

Photo courtesy of U.S. Em-

attracted both local and national attention grades, were still considerably higher than highly sophisticated projects that involve a class held twice a week that teaches stu- started the chess club. “There isn’t a way to larly from a stock of manipulatives and first-graders sing with piano accompaniment geometric structure called a “spherical
decreasing costs and promoting productivity. for its rigorous yet innovative approach state averages (77 percent in math and creating dioramas depicting artifacts from dents not only the art of chess but also the separate the subjects. There isn’t a way that props—including microscopes, magnifying a catchy song written by the music teacher: dodecahedron.” In a well-connected cur-
The release of the FAFSA4caster puts into the Precambrian to the Cenozoic eras and critical thinking skills necessary for reading you could teach, say, fractions without them glasses and miniature models—that fill three “Water travels in a cycle. Yes, it does. Yes, it riculum, said art teacher Jennifer Vaccaro,
to elementary education. 76 percent in reading, compared to
place one of the secretary’s action steps in does. … Goes up as evaporation. Comes “nothing is left to chance.”
The largest elementary school in the 68 percent and 67 percent, respectively). teaching Latin in a study of Julius Caesar. and math. learning the vocabulary—the concept of walk-in closets supplied mostly through gen-
response to these recommendations.
Mount Vernon City School District with Revealing an even more brilliant Yet, to make these types of enriching expe- By integrating subject matter across the numbers and languages together.” erous donations from science institutes and down as condensation. Rains down as Last year, reading specialist Diana Mesisco
nearly 800 children, Lincoln has reached picture, the most recent disaggregated riences possible at a school with a 54-percent curriculum—even in a nontraditional class- As faculty members collaborate across used the performing arts as a platform to
capacity due largely to the out-of-bound- poverty rate takes more than dollars and room activity like chess—Lincoln has disciplines and grade levels to prepare launch a schoolwide literacy incentive pro-
ary enrollment of students by parents cents. “Would I welcome more money?” created a seamless tapestry of learning lesson plans, interdisciplinary instruc- gram called “Star Search” inspired by the
Our Condolences … who have heard of its remarkable reputa- asked Albano. “Yes. But to me that’s that allows students to experience first- tion is seen as both a team-building and popular television show American Idol.
tion. “For anyone who cares enough another cop-out. You have to be hand the meaningful, interactive world a time-efficient approach. “People say Students were asked to write an original
about their child to want something innovative. What I’ve done is used of knowledge. A second-grade science lesson we don’t have enough time in elementary song about the plot or a character from

I
n response to the shootings on the
campus of Virginia Tech University better, I’m not going to deny that,” said our success to excite people, because in which students describe the tools they [to cover all the material], but the key is their favorite book, then invited to perform
on April 16, President George W. Bush Albano, regarding the 30–40 special there are a lot of good people out would bring on a fossil hunt, integrating the subjects,” said Albano. in a competition judged by a panel of
and U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret permission requests granted each year. there who want Science and math, in particular, are often parents and teachers. Along with a medal
Spellings issued the following statements “At Lincoln, the children are chal- to make a the center of this multidisciplinary experi- award, participants were treated to a sur-
of support: lenged and made to believe they can difference.” ence. For a fifth-grade project prise performance by American Idol’s own
excel,” explained Delia Farquharson, about rockets, teacher Dawn Julia DeMato, who reached 10th place in
“… Laura and I and many across our who transferred her nine-year-old daugh- Mullins builds on an exercise the show’s second season.
nation are praying for the victims and ter, Kenja-Rae, there last fall following led by the physical education While the ingenuity of these efforts clearly
their families and all the members of her disappointment with the neighbor- has been the hard work of the staff, many
the university community who have hood school. “So I could not leave her of whom have taught at Lincoln for at least
been devastated by this terri- in an environment where she was at risk 15 years, all agree that none of it would be
ble tragedy. … Schools of being taught that mediocrity is okay.” possible without the longstanding leadership
should be places of Demographically, Lincoln is the typical of Principal Albano. “I believe lots of schools
safety and sanctuary multicultural school on the urban fringe, have good teachers, but it takes a great instruc-
and learning. When seated in a racially and economically tional leader to really bring out the best in
that sanctuary diverse suburb of New York City and them,” said Mesisco.
is violated, the facing challenges similar An educator who could have retired five
impact is felt in to its city counter- other organizations. precipitation. Yes, it does. Yes, it does.” years ago at age 55, Albano is considered
every American parts. However, data (2005) by ethnicity and “No one wants to sit all day and read Following a few song rehearsals, the focus a tireless advocate for better
classroom and every academically, it economic levels showed African- something from a book,” said Mullins about turns to a language arts lesson dividing the schooling for the less-
American community.” is anything but American and white students, the hands-on learning. “And I don’t think scientific terms into syllables, finishing with than-privileged. “I’m
—President Bush ordinary. Since along with those qualifying for they’ll remember years from now if someone a discussion of the technical stages of the here because I’m on a
2002, nearly free and reduced-price lunches, were to ask them about the relationship water cycle. mission to just not tell
“As the mother every fourth-grader performed equally well on the between velocity and distance. I don’t think Like the music session, art class is another you it works, but to
of a daughter in has met or exceeded state exam. it really makes an impression on them if occasion to explore complex themes, as stu- show you it does.”
college, my heart state standards in read- For Albano, closing the achieve- they aren’t actively involved.” dents learn the difference between a polygon
—BY NICOLE ASHBY
goes out to the ing and math. (In 2004 ment gap is a matter of closing the and a polyhedron by dipping small paper

Lincoln Elementary School

parents of the stu- and 2005, 100 percent of gap between the haves and have-
dents who lost their lives and to
the entire Virginia Tech community on
this sad day. My Department is work-
ing with the White House and other AROUND THE COUNTRY
agencies to identify what resources > Grade Span: K–6 > Special Education Students: 16%
can be provided to Virginia Tech as the GEORGIA—More than 8,500 high Technology), wrapped up its 16th and TEXAS—The National Math and Science grants in up to 10 states for training and
university assesses its needs.” school students from across the country largest-ever season. It followed 37 regional Initiative, whose goal is to foster the next incentive programs for Advanced Placement > Locale: Suburban > Percentage Proficient: In reading, 100%;
with 344 robots competed at the Geor- competitions held in March, from which teams generation of scientists and engineers, was (AP) and pre-AP courses, and up to 10 colleges in math, 99% (based on fourth-graders
> Total Students: 754
—Secretary Spellings gia Dome in Atlanta for the 2007 FIRST were invited to the championship based on their launched in March by leaders in the education and universities for the replication of the assessed on the 2006 state exam).
> Race/Ethnicity Enrollment:
Secretary Spellings is asking for suggestions Robotics Competition Championship, performance in competitive play, sportsmanship community and ExxonMobil with $125 million UTeach program, which encourages math > Interesting Fact: Since 2002, nearly
50% African-American, 25% Hispanic,
held April 12–14. Free and open to the and the development of partnerships among in initial support from that corporation. Based and science majors to enter the teaching every fourth-grader at Lincoln has met or
from the public about school safety via 23% white, 2% Asian
public, the annual event, administered schools, businesses and communities. FIRST in Dallas, the nonprofit initiative seeks to profession. Within five years, the initiative exceeded state standards in reading and
e-mail to her at [email protected]. > Free and Reduced-Price Lunch math. In 2004 and 2005, 100 percent
by the public charity FIRST (For Inspi- participants are eligible for nearly $8 million improve U.S. global competitiveness by plans to expand these programs to 150
Eligible: 54% of students did so in math as well as in
ration and Recognition of Science and in college scholarships. expanding two programs that have proven suc- school districts in 20 states and to more
reading in 2006.
cessful in Texas schools. This fall, it will award than 50 campuses nationwide. > English Language Learners: 28%
page 2 page 3 page 4
> continued from page 1 > continued from page 1

major recommendations for improving to get the most out of their students.” students did so in math as well as in read- nots when it comes to enriching academic For instance, more than a decade ago, for example, morphs into a classroom discus- teacher using bouncing balls to demonstrate From left to right: Albano with students Kenja-Rae and Mizraim; Mesisco (center)
college access, affordability and accountabil- Meade was referring to Principal ing in 2006.) opportunities. “Just because you’re born into a the retired spouse of one of the teachers sion about how writing has its own collection the theory of velocity. The children, who by with some of the Star Search participants; fourth-graders Tayler and Isaiah play
ity: 1) aligning K–12 and higher education George Albano, whose 27-year leadership Moreover, when the state of New York certain race or neighborhood, you should not volunteered to start a chess club at Lincoln. of tools, such as a “grabber” or engaging second grade already have learned the differ- chess; and Mullins along with fifth-graders Juliana, Ashley and Anthony anticipate
expectations; 2) increasing need-based aid has been widely credited for the school’s tested additional grades for the first time be denied what wealthy people can afford,” The children became so adept at the game— introduction, which the children would ence between a dependent and an independent a rocket’ s distance. On the cover, Vaccaro, holding a spherical dodecahedron,
for access and success of low-income legendary success. Honored last year last year, Lincoln’s third- through sixth- he said. “We’ve got to stop making excuses. winning several local competitions—that a need to employ for their journal assignment variable, use balloons that simulate rockets with student Eleidalee. Photos by Tom McWilliam, Jr.
students; 3) using accreditation to support as a No Child Left Behind–Blue Ribbon graders proved consistently strong in both We have an obligation to give the children private donor gave a sizeable grant toward describing the imaginary expedition. to test their hypotheses on how far they will
and emphasize student learning outcomes; School for consistent high academic subjects. Even fifth-graders’ scores, which in these schools what everyone else gets.” funding the training services of chess masters. “Everything is interdisciplinary,” said travel based on the measure of inflated air. Woven also into this academic framework cups in paint and gluing together three
4) serving adults and other nontraditional achievement, Lincoln has increasingly were a little lower than those for other That means assigning students at Lincoln Today, this expert instruction is the center of teacher Mary Anderson, whose husband Classroom lessons at Lincoln draw regu- are the arts. To learn about the water cycle, color groups to construct a disco ball-like
students; and 5) enhancing affordability,

Photo courtesy of U.S. Em-

attracted both local and national attention grades, were still considerably higher than highly sophisticated projects that involve a class held twice a week that teaches stu- started the chess club. “There isn’t a way to larly from a stock of manipulatives and first-graders sing with piano accompaniment geometric structure called a “spherical
decreasing costs and promoting productivity. for its rigorous yet innovative approach state averages (77 percent in math and creating dioramas depicting artifacts from dents not only the art of chess but also the separate the subjects. There isn’t a way that props—including microscopes, magnifying a catchy song written by the music teacher: dodecahedron.” In a well-connected cur-
The release of the FAFSA4caster puts into the Precambrian to the Cenozoic eras and critical thinking skills necessary for reading you could teach, say, fractions without them glasses and miniature models—that fill three “Water travels in a cycle. Yes, it does. Yes, it riculum, said art teacher Jennifer Vaccaro,
to elementary education. 76 percent in reading, compared to
place one of the secretary’s action steps in does. … Goes up as evaporation. Comes “nothing is left to chance.”
The largest elementary school in the 68 percent and 67 percent, respectively). teaching Latin in a study of Julius Caesar. and math. learning the vocabulary—the concept of walk-in closets supplied mostly through gen-
response to these recommendations.
Mount Vernon City School District with Revealing an even more brilliant Yet, to make these types of enriching expe- By integrating subject matter across the numbers and languages together.” erous donations from science institutes and down as condensation. Rains down as Last year, reading specialist Diana Mesisco
nearly 800 children, Lincoln has reached picture, the most recent disaggregated riences possible at a school with a 54-percent curriculum—even in a nontraditional class- As faculty members collaborate across used the performing arts as a platform to
capacity due largely to the out-of-bound- poverty rate takes more than dollars and room activity like chess—Lincoln has disciplines and grade levels to prepare launch a schoolwide literacy incentive pro-
ary enrollment of students by parents cents. “Would I welcome more money?” created a seamless tapestry of learning lesson plans, interdisciplinary instruc- gram called “Star Search” inspired by the
Our Condolences … who have heard of its remarkable reputa- asked Albano. “Yes. But to me that’s that allows students to experience first- tion is seen as both a team-building and popular television show American Idol.
tion. “For anyone who cares enough another cop-out. You have to be hand the meaningful, interactive world a time-efficient approach. “People say Students were asked to write an original
about their child to want something innovative. What I’ve done is used of knowledge. A second-grade science lesson we don’t have enough time in elementary song about the plot or a character from

I
n response to the shootings on the
campus of Virginia Tech University better, I’m not going to deny that,” said our success to excite people, because in which students describe the tools they [to cover all the material], but the key is their favorite book, then invited to perform
on April 16, President George W. Bush Albano, regarding the 30–40 special there are a lot of good people out would bring on a fossil hunt, integrating the subjects,” said Albano. in a competition judged by a panel of
and U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret permission requests granted each year. there who want Science and math, in particular, are often parents and teachers. Along with a medal
Spellings issued the following statements “At Lincoln, the children are chal- to make a the center of this multidisciplinary experi- award, participants were treated to a sur-
of support: lenged and made to believe they can difference.” ence. For a fifth-grade project prise performance by American Idol’s own
excel,” explained Delia Farquharson, about rockets, teacher Dawn Julia DeMato, who reached 10th place in
“… Laura and I and many across our who transferred her nine-year-old daugh- Mullins builds on an exercise the show’s second season.
nation are praying for the victims and ter, Kenja-Rae, there last fall following led by the physical education While the ingenuity of these efforts clearly
their families and all the members of her disappointment with the neighbor- has been the hard work of the staff, many
the university community who have hood school. “So I could not leave her of whom have taught at Lincoln for at least
been devastated by this terri- in an environment where she was at risk 15 years, all agree that none of it would be
ble tragedy. … Schools of being taught that mediocrity is okay.” possible without the longstanding leadership
should be places of Demographically, Lincoln is the typical of Principal Albano. “I believe lots of schools
safety and sanctuary multicultural school on the urban fringe, have good teachers, but it takes a great instruc-
and learning. When seated in a racially and economically tional leader to really bring out the best in
that sanctuary diverse suburb of New York City and them,” said Mesisco.
is violated, the facing challenges similar An educator who could have retired five
impact is felt in to its city counter- other organizations. precipitation. Yes, it does. Yes, it does.” years ago at age 55, Albano is considered
every American parts. However, data (2005) by ethnicity and “No one wants to sit all day and read Following a few song rehearsals, the focus a tireless advocate for better
classroom and every academically, it economic levels showed African- something from a book,” said Mullins about turns to a language arts lesson dividing the schooling for the less-
American community.” is anything but American and white students, the hands-on learning. “And I don’t think scientific terms into syllables, finishing with than-privileged. “I’m
—President Bush ordinary. Since along with those qualifying for they’ll remember years from now if someone a discussion of the technical stages of the here because I’m on a
2002, nearly free and reduced-price lunches, were to ask them about the relationship water cycle. mission to just not tell
“As the mother every fourth-grader performed equally well on the between velocity and distance. I don’t think Like the music session, art class is another you it works, but to
of a daughter in has met or exceeded state exam. it really makes an impression on them if occasion to explore complex themes, as stu- show you it does.”
college, my heart state standards in read- For Albano, closing the achieve- they aren’t actively involved.” dents learn the difference between a polygon
—BY NICOLE ASHBY
goes out to the ing and math. (In 2004 ment gap is a matter of closing the and a polyhedron by dipping small paper

Lincoln Elementary School

parents of the stu- and 2005, 100 percent of gap between the haves and have-
dents who lost their lives and to
the entire Virginia Tech community on
this sad day. My Department is work-
ing with the White House and other AROUND THE COUNTRY
agencies to identify what resources > Grade Span: K–6 > Special Education Students: 16%
can be provided to Virginia Tech as the GEORGIA—More than 8,500 high Technology), wrapped up its 16th and TEXAS—The National Math and Science grants in up to 10 states for training and
university assesses its needs.” school students from across the country largest-ever season. It followed 37 regional Initiative, whose goal is to foster the next incentive programs for Advanced Placement > Locale: Suburban > Percentage Proficient: In reading, 100%;
with 344 robots competed at the Geor- competitions held in March, from which teams generation of scientists and engineers, was (AP) and pre-AP courses, and up to 10 colleges in math, 99% (based on fourth-graders
> Total Students: 754
—Secretary Spellings gia Dome in Atlanta for the 2007 FIRST were invited to the championship based on their launched in March by leaders in the education and universities for the replication of the assessed on the 2006 state exam).
> Race/Ethnicity Enrollment:
Secretary Spellings is asking for suggestions Robotics Competition Championship, performance in competitive play, sportsmanship community and ExxonMobil with $125 million UTeach program, which encourages math > Interesting Fact: Since 2002, nearly
50% African-American, 25% Hispanic,
held April 12–14. Free and open to the and the development of partnerships among in initial support from that corporation. Based and science majors to enter the teaching every fourth-grader at Lincoln has met or
from the public about school safety via 23% white, 2% Asian
public, the annual event, administered schools, businesses and communities. FIRST in Dallas, the nonprofit initiative seeks to profession. Within five years, the initiative exceeded state standards in reading and
e-mail to her at [email protected]. > Free and Reduced-Price Lunch math. In 2004 and 2005, 100 percent
by the public charity FIRST (For Inspi- participants are eligible for nearly $8 million improve U.S. global competitiveness by plans to expand these programs to 150
Eligible: 54% of students did so in math as well as in
ration and Recognition of Science and in college scholarships. expanding two programs that have proven suc- school districts in 20 states and to more
reading in 2006.
cessful in Texas schools. This fall, it will award than 50 campuses nationwide. > English Language Learners: 28%
page 2 page 3 page 4
Calendar May 7–11
Teacher Appreciation Week,
a celebration sponsored by the
National PTA. Established in
1984, the week’s observance
QA &
Following a yearlong series of public
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
ED PUBS
P.O. BOX 1398
JESSUP, MD 20794-1398
The

VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007

PRESORTED
FIRST- CLASS MAIL
UNITED STATES POSTAGE PAID
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD
PERMIT NO. 557
The
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
meetings across the country, the panel will
provides an opportunity to
submit a final report early next year. Presi-
honor the dedicated educators What is the Department dent Bush is requesting $250 million in his VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007 www.ed.gov
who teach America’s children. doing to improve math and 2008 budget to help states implement these
Visit http://www.pta.org or
call toll-free 1-800-307-4782.
science achievement? recommendations.
> Also part of the president’s 2008 budget FAFSA4caster Gives College Hopefuls New Online Tool Simplifies
I Financial Aid Process
n a recent study, U.S. 15-year-olds request, a proposed $25 million for the cre- Jump Start on Federal Aid Availability
ranked 24th out of 29 nations in math ation of the Adjunct Teacher Corps would
literacy and problem solving, performing encourage well-qualified math and science

A
below the international average. Results of professionals to become adjunct secondary new online tool to help students and fam- student aid, including grants;
another study proved just as disconcerting: school teachers. Funds would be used to ilies prepare financially for college before > Reduces the time it will take to complete the I N S I D E
only 7 percent of fourth- and eighth-graders make competitive grants to partnerships a student’s senior year of high school is Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
achieved an advanced level in math and of school districts and states (or of school now available. Called the FAFSA4caster, it pro- and
science, compared to 41 percent of students districts and appropriate public or private vides high school juniors with an early estimate > Simplifies the financial aid process for students 2 Virginia Tech University
from Singapore. In response to this crisis, institutions) to create opportunities for pro- of their eligibility for federal financial aid, and families. Condolences
the U.S. Department of Education has fessionals with subject-matter expertise to which could include a Pell Grant of up The FAFSA4caster allows for an easy
May 15 –16 undertaken several new initiatives to help teach secondary school courses in math or to $4,310 based on financial need. transition to FAFSA on the Web, the Around the Country—

White House Office of America’s students develop the solid math science, and provide students real-world “Improving college access and online version of the federal appli- Georgia and Texas

Faith-Based and Community and science skills needed in today’s global applications for math and science concepts affordability is key to giving more cation. It pre-populates 51 of the 5 Calendar
economy. being taught in the classroom. Americans a chance at higher 102 questions on the FAFSA, sig-
Initiatives Conference,
> Created in 2006 and modeled after the > Since the enactment of the No Child Left education and keeping America nificantly reducing the time it takes Q&A—Improving Math and
Phoenix, sponsored by a influential National Reading Panel, the Behind Act in 2002, schools have been competitive,” said U.S. Secretary of for students to complete the FAFSA Science Achievement
consortium of federal agencies, National Mathematics Advisory Panel will required to annually assess and report student Education Margaret Spellings, who in their senior year of high school.
including the U.S. Department make recommendations based on the best progress in math and reading in an effort to introduced the tool in late March. The FAFSA4caster is available Education News Parents

of Education. Part of a series of scientific evidence on the improvement of identify problem areas and inform instruc- “Families need more information— in both English and Spanish at Can Use
mathematics education, with a particular tion. By the end of the 2007–08 school year, sooner—about students’ federal aid eligibility http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov.
regional conferences being held 6 Making ED.gov More
emphasis on algebra readiness and success. students will also have to be tested in science. Making ED.gov More User-Friendly so that they can plan ahead for college. The Last September, Secretary Spellings announced
around the country, this meet- User-Friendly
FAFSA4caster gives families an important tool her plans to improve the U.S. higher education
ing for grassroots leaders will they can use to make decisions about the future.” system, based on the recommendations listed in
provide information about News Show Focuses on Teacher Quality The FAFSA4caster: the final report of her Commission on the Future

T
federal grant opportunities. he U.S. Department of Education introduces two new features: > Calculates a student’s eligibility for federal of Higher Education. The report included five
has enhanced its Web site, > Secretary’s Corner. This feature highlights

H
Visit http://www.fbci.gov or igh-quality, to recruit, train and > continued on page 2
effective reward effective teachers; http://www.ed.gov, to provide a the Department’s key priorities, which focus U.S. Department of Education Rigor in K– 6
call 202-456-6718. 400 Maryland Ave. S.W.
teaching, and how programs like more user-friendly resource for promoting on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB),

On the Horizon as well as innovative

approaches to better
the Teacher Incentive
Fund, along with the
educational excellence for all Americans.
The site now has a brighter, more uniform
higher education and the American Competi-
tiveness Initiative. In particular, a fresh
Washington, DC 20202

The Achiever is a monthly publication

Interdisciplinary Curriculum, Strong Leadership Account
This fall, the U.S. Department
of Education’s Office of English
recruit and retain proposed Adjunct look, and many of the links have been
streamlined to make navigation much
addition, “Meet the Secretary,” provides
detailed information about U.S. Secretary of
for parents and community leaders from
the Office of Communications and
Outreach, U.S. Department of Education
For100-Percent Proficiency at New York School
exceptional teachers, Teacher Corps and
(ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary.
Language Acquisition will host will be the focus of the other teacher quality simpler. Education Margaret Spellings: her biography, Discussing a helicopter flight he’d recently taken to care for a
Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby,
the Sixth Annual Celebrate Our While the Web site retains its most speeches, reflections from recent travels, and

‘‘
May edition of Educa- programs under the editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at critically injured patient, Dr. William Meade, Jr., recalled where
Rising Stars Summit, Oct. 29–31 tion News Parents Can American Competitive- popular links—including the four responses to questions from teachers on vari- [email protected]. he first learned the navigational terms “latitude” and “longitude”:
in Washington, D.C. Designed Use, the U.S. Department ness Initiative, are categories designed for students, par- ous policy issues. Also included is a sequence Address changes and subscriptions? in elementary school. The 31-year-old physician, who will be
of Education’s monthly designed to strengthen ents, teachers and administrators—it of video excerpts spotlighting the secretary’s Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or completing his residency training in emergency medicine at the
to help educators of English
language learners in all grades
achieve academic success, the
television program.
All across the country,
our nation’s teachers,
schools and students.
views on topics ranging from the reautho-
rization of NCLB to making college more
[email protected].
Information on ED programs, resources
and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN,
Nothing is University of California–San Diego next June, said he attributes a lot
of what he has learned to his primary years at Lincoln Elementary
School in Mount Vernon, N.Y.
summit will highlight best
practices and research, as well
highly qualified teachers are inspiring excel-
lence in students. The May broadcast will
Each month, Education News Parents
Can Use showcases: schools and school
affordable.
> Success Stories. Broadening the online
video offerings drawn from the Department’s
or [email protected].
The Achiever contains news and information
about and from public and private organizations
left to “That’s one of the things that is special about Lincoln—they
created that strong foundation, that skill set and support
districts from across the country; conversa-
as provide an opportunity to
network with policymakers at
showcase several award-winning teachers
and explore how effective teaching is at the
core of America’s long-term economic com-
tions with school officials, parents and
education experts; and advice and free
monthly television show, Education News
Parents Can Use, this new feature offers
for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not
constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart-
ment of Education of any products or services
chance. system, that allows anything to be possible in terms of
educational accomplishments subsequent to Lincoln,” said
video clips of schools with promising prac- offered or views expressed. This publication Meade, who, with merit-based scholarships, went on to prep
local, state and national levels. petitiveness. Among the many features are: resources for parents and educators. also contains hyperlinks and URLs created
tices, such as a school in Georgia where school and then to Duke University, where he earned both
Visit http://www.oelasummit.org. an overview of the current state of the teach- To learn about viewing options, including and maintained by outside organizations and
100 percent of its third- and fifth-graders provided for the reader’s convenience. The his undergraduate and medical degrees. “I think that’s the
ing profession and what is being done to webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click Department is not responsible for the accuracy environment Mr. Albano created by pushing his teachers
place a high-quality teacher in every class- on “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use”; are performing at grade level. of this information.
> continued on page 2
room; innovative and alternative strategies or call toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN.
page 5 page 6
Calendar May 7–11
Teacher Appreciation Week,
a celebration sponsored by the
National PTA. Established in
1984, the week’s observance
QA &
Following a yearlong series of public
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
ED PUBS
P.O. BOX 1398
JESSUP, MD 20794-1398
The

VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007

PRESORTED
FIRST- CLASS MAIL
UNITED STATES POSTAGE PAID
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD
PERMIT NO. 557
The
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
meetings across the country, the panel will
provides an opportunity to
submit a final report early next year. Presi-
honor the dedicated educators What is the Department dent Bush is requesting $250 million in his VOL.6, NO.5 MAY 2007 www.ed.gov
who teach America’s children. doing to improve math and 2008 budget to help states implement these
Visit http://www.pta.org or
call toll-free 1-800-307-4782.
science achievement? recommendations.
> Also part of the president’s 2008 budget FAFSA4caster Gives College Hopefuls New Online Tool Simplifies
I Financial Aid Process
n a recent study, U.S. 15-year-olds request, a proposed $25 million for the cre- Jump Start on Federal Aid Availability
ranked 24th out of 29 nations in math ation of the Adjunct Teacher Corps would
literacy and problem solving, performing encourage well-qualified math and science

A
below the international average. Results of professionals to become adjunct secondary new online tool to help students and fam- student aid, including grants;
another study proved just as disconcerting: school teachers. Funds would be used to ilies prepare financially for college before > Reduces the time it will take to complete the I N S I D E
only 7 percent of fourth- and eighth-graders make competitive grants to partnerships a student’s senior year of high school is Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
achieved an advanced level in math and of school districts and states (or of school now available. Called the FAFSA4caster, it pro- and
science, compared to 41 percent of students districts and appropriate public or private vides high school juniors with an early estimate > Simplifies the financial aid process for students 2 Virginia Tech University
from Singapore. In response to this crisis, institutions) to create opportunities for pro- of their eligibility for federal financial aid, and families. Condolences
the U.S. Department of Education has fessionals with subject-matter expertise to which could include a Pell Grant of up The FAFSA4caster allows for an easy
May 15 –16 undertaken several new initiatives to help teach secondary school courses in math or to $4,310 based on financial need. transition to FAFSA on the Web, the Around the Country—

White House Office of America’s students develop the solid math science, and provide students real-world “Improving college access and online version of the federal appli- Georgia and Texas

Faith-Based and Community and science skills needed in today’s global applications for math and science concepts affordability is key to giving more cation. It pre-populates 51 of the 5 Calendar
economy. being taught in the classroom. Americans a chance at higher 102 questions on the FAFSA, sig-
Initiatives Conference,
> Created in 2006 and modeled after the > Since the enactment of the No Child Left education and keeping America nificantly reducing the time it takes Q&A—Improving Math and
Phoenix, sponsored by a influential National Reading Panel, the Behind Act in 2002, schools have been competitive,” said U.S. Secretary of for students to complete the FAFSA Science Achievement
consortium of federal agencies, National Mathematics Advisory Panel will required to annually assess and report student Education Margaret Spellings, who in their senior year of high school.
including the U.S. Department make recommendations based on the best progress in math and reading in an effort to introduced the tool in late March. The FAFSA4caster is available Education News Parents

of Education. Part of a series of scientific evidence on the improvement of identify problem areas and inform instruc- “Families need more information— in both English and Spanish at Can Use
mathematics education, with a particular tion. By the end of the 2007–08 school year, sooner—about students’ federal aid eligibility http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov.
regional conferences being held 6 Making ED.gov More
emphasis on algebra readiness and success. students will also have to be tested in science. Making ED.gov More User-Friendly so that they can plan ahead for college. The Last September, Secretary Spellings announced
around the country, this meet- User-Friendly
FAFSA4caster gives families an important tool her plans to improve the U.S. higher education
ing for grassroots leaders will they can use to make decisions about the future.” system, based on the recommendations listed in
provide information about News Show Focuses on Teacher Quality The FAFSA4caster: the final report of her Commission on the Future

T
federal grant opportunities. he U.S. Department of Education introduces two new features: > Calculates a student’s eligibility for federal of Higher Education. The report included five
has enhanced its Web site, > Secretary’s Corner. This feature highlights

H
Visit http://www.fbci.gov or igh-quality, to recruit, train and > continued on page 2
effective reward effective teachers; http://www.ed.gov, to provide a the Department’s key priorities, which focus U.S. Department of Education Rigor in K– 6
call 202-456-6718. 400 Maryland Ave. S.W.
teaching, and how programs like more user-friendly resource for promoting on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB),

On the Horizon as well as innovative

approaches to better
the Teacher Incentive
Fund, along with the
educational excellence for all Americans.
The site now has a brighter, more uniform
higher education and the American Competi-
tiveness Initiative. In particular, a fresh
Washington, DC 20202

The Achiever is a monthly publication

Interdisciplinary Curriculum, Strong Leadership Account
This fall, the U.S. Department
of Education’s Office of English
recruit and retain proposed Adjunct look, and many of the links have been
streamlined to make navigation much
addition, “Meet the Secretary,” provides
detailed information about U.S. Secretary of
for parents and community leaders from
the Office of Communications and
Outreach, U.S. Department of Education
For100-Percent Proficiency at New York School
exceptional teachers, Teacher Corps and
(ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary.
Language Acquisition will host will be the focus of the other teacher quality simpler. Education Margaret Spellings: her biography, Discussing a helicopter flight he’d recently taken to care for a
Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby,
the Sixth Annual Celebrate Our While the Web site retains its most speeches, reflections from recent travels, and

‘‘
May edition of Educa- programs under the editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at critically injured patient, Dr. William Meade, Jr., recalled where
Rising Stars Summit, Oct. 29–31 tion News Parents Can American Competitive- popular links—including the four responses to questions from teachers on vari- [email protected]. he first learned the navigational terms “latitude” and “longitude”:
in Washington, D.C. Designed Use, the U.S. Department ness Initiative, are categories designed for students, par- ous policy issues. Also included is a sequence Address changes and subscriptions? in elementary school. The 31-year-old physician, who will be
of Education’s monthly designed to strengthen ents, teachers and administrators—it of video excerpts spotlighting the secretary’s Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or completing his residency training in emergency medicine at the
to help educators of English
language learners in all grades
achieve academic success, the
television program.
All across the country,
our nation’s teachers,
schools and students.
views on topics ranging from the reautho-
rization of NCLB to making college more
[email protected].
Information on ED programs, resources
and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN,
Nothing is University of California–San Diego next June, said he attributes a lot
of what he has learned to his primary years at Lincoln Elementary
School in Mount Vernon, N.Y.
summit will highlight best
practices and research, as well
highly qualified teachers are inspiring excel-
lence in students. The May broadcast will
Each month, Education News Parents
Can Use showcases: schools and school
affordable.
> Success Stories. Broadening the online
video offerings drawn from the Department’s
or [email protected].
The Achiever contains news and information
about and from public and private organizations
left to “That’s one of the things that is special about Lincoln—they
created that strong foundation, that skill set and support
districts from across the country; conversa-
as provide an opportunity to
network with policymakers at
showcase several award-winning teachers
and explore how effective teaching is at the
core of America’s long-term economic com-
tions with school officials, parents and
education experts; and advice and free
monthly television show, Education News
Parents Can Use, this new feature offers
for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not
constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart-
ment of Education of any products or services
chance. system, that allows anything to be possible in terms of
educational accomplishments subsequent to Lincoln,” said
video clips of schools with promising prac- offered or views expressed. This publication Meade, who, with merit-based scholarships, went on to prep
local, state and national levels. petitiveness. Among the many features are: resources for parents and educators. also contains hyperlinks and URLs created
tices, such as a school in Georgia where school and then to Duke University, where he earned both
Visit http://www.oelasummit.org. an overview of the current state of the teach- To learn about viewing options, including and maintained by outside organizations and
100 percent of its third- and fifth-graders provided for the reader’s convenience. The his undergraduate and medical degrees. “I think that’s the
ing profession and what is being done to webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click Department is not responsible for the accuracy environment Mr. Albano created by pushing his teachers
place a high-quality teacher in every class- on “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use”; are performing at grade level. of this information.
> continued on page 2
room; innovative and alternative strategies or call toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN.
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