News

04.18.06

Hartford Teachers Spring into Science

CT Center for Science & Exploration Presents Teacher
Development Workshop for Hartford Educators

Hartford, CT – (April 18, 2006) – Hartford educators from 13 different schools throughout the city are returning to the classroom during spring break to participate in an intense five-day teacher development workshop hosted by the Connecticut Center for Science & Exploration. The workshop is part of the Center’s statewide teacher development program. The program immerses teachers in innovative learning techniques that enhance their effectiveness in teaching science and related subjects to students. A $1 million GE Foundation grant makes the program possible.

Kindergarten through 8th grade Hartford teachers from the Batchelder, Sanchez, E.B. Kennelly, Sport & Medical Science Academy, M.L. King, Rawson, Dwight, M.D. Fox, Fisher Multiple Intelligence Magnet, Kinsella, Burr, Naylor, and Twain schools are being introduced to the “inquiry-based” approach to science teaching during this week’s workshop, which will help them practice these techniques and strategies, as well as prepare them to incorporate them into their lesson plans and school curricula. During each workshop, teachers use hands-on investigations to manipulate various objects to see how they react to certain elements, such as salt and vinegar. These exercises help prepare them to draw upon intrinsic human curiosity, a vital ingredient to successful classroom teaching.

The project provides ongoing support, by fostering continued collaboration and support among the program’s participants throughout the school year. Additionally, the Center will help facilitate the participation of Connecticut subject-matter-experts, such as local scientists, educators and engineers, who will contribute to exciting classroom activities.

“With the educational commitment of this institution and our leaders, we can help Hartford teachers inspire science students right now, even before we open the building,” said Dr. Theodore S. Sergi, president & CEO of the Center. “Thanks to the GE Foundation, representing the science and learning commitment of one of the most important technology firms in the world, we are able to help teachers bring the newest and most exciting science instruction to our children."

Bob Corcoran, president of the GE Foundation, and GE’s chief learning officer said, “The Center’s inquiry-based approach is helping hundreds of teachers engage in hands-on science projects that fire the imagination and curiosity of their students. This program helps to strengthen science education in Connecticut and ultimately increase the pipeline of students pursuing degrees in science.”

The program has served over 120 teachers from across the state already, exceeding expectations.

“Especially with the advent of science achievement standards in our schools, educators and parents are looking for ways to make sure Connecticut students can achieve,” said Dr. Sergi. “As part of our mission, it’s very important for the Center to respond to needs like this so that we can help strengthen the larger learning power of our communities.”

CT Center for Science & Exploration
The Connecticut Center for Science & Exploration, now under construction at Adriaen’s Landing in Hartford, will spark creative imagination and an appreciation for science by immersing visitors in fun and educational hands-on, interactive experiences. The Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing science education throughout the state of the Connecticut, providing learning opportunities for students and adults of all ages, and engaging the community in scientific exploration. Details, images, news releases, and live webcam are available online at www.ctcse.org.

GE Foundation
The GE Foundation, the philanthropic organization of the General Electric Company, works to strengthen educational access, equity, and quality for disadvantaged youth globally; and supports GE employee and retiree giving and involvement in GE communities around the world. In 2004, the GE Family contributed more than $150 million to community and educational programs, including $52 million from the GE Foundation. For information, visit www.gefoundation.com.

Contacts: CT Center for Science & Exploration
Michelle Morales – 860.727-0457 X116

GE Foundation
Amaya Gorostiaga – 203.373-3223

Photos

	Hartford Public School’s Science Supervisor Susan Czapla shines a light at an ice balloon while elementary teacher Paul Guzzo and instructor Kathy Hanisko observe patterns of erosion on the surface at a teacher development workshop held this week by the Connecticut Center for Science & Exploration. Click to download.
	Elementary Hartford Science teachers, Marci Ashley and Linda Gasper, hammer a nail through a ball of ice as part of a science demonstration conducted at this weeks teacher development workshop presented by the Connecticut Center for Science & Exploration. Click to download.
	Dr. Theodore Sergi, president and CEO of the Connecticut Center for Science & Exploration, addresses Hartford educators who participated this week in the Center’s teacher development workshop. Click to download.