School System Checklist

  • School system will identify a point of contact for data collection & collect data for 5 years after VDP implementation
  • School system will identify a point of contact to coordinate S&E activities in the school
  • School system will submit a proposed implementation plan and budget
  • Project will be accessible to all students
  • All teachers and S&Es will, as a team, participate in yearly professional development activities (including  Problem-Based Learning, inquiry, co-teaching, cooperative learning & ethics/school climate)
  • STEM Learning Modules (SLM) will be integrated into the curriculum and explicitly connected to relevant academic standards
  • In class SLM lessons will be linked to problem based learning
  • S&Es will be scheduled to mentor & co-teach in each class implementing the VDP
  • Students will receive a project overview prior to implementation in the classroom
  • Students will receive a brief STEM career “getting to know your S&E” orientation prior to implementation.  S&Es will introduce career highlights during the VDP implementation
  • Teachers & S&Es will participate in data collection activities (pre/post tests and interviews)
  • School system will plan to host a project “expo” (these can be school or system-based and integrated into other school activities)
  • A parent overview and/or summary of the project will be provided
  • A counselor VDP orientation of the project will be provided

Project Options:

  • Research component
  • Enhanced implementation (including language arts, special education, etc.)
  • Mini-expo (older students present their projects to younger grade(s)
  • Additional programs:  after school, summer camp, gifted, First Lego League, etc.