Science Grant Will Benefit Schools

Sonora, CA — The Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools office has received a $1.5 million California Math Science Partnership grant.

The funding is through the California Department of Education. “This is an unprecedented opportunity to create an instructional model for teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in our local schools,” says T.C. Superintendent of Schools Joe Silva.

The money will provide professional development for 55 elementary school teachers. It creates a unique partnership called STEM-TRACKS (Teacher Resources and Content Knowledge in Science). The grant extends over three years, totaling $1.5 million. Teachers will attend week-long summer institutes to train with science and math experts, and then use the information in the classroom during the school year. During year one the training will feature experts from the DaVinci Center at the San Joaquin County Office of Education, in year two the Lawrence Livermore Lab, and in year three the UC Merced Engineering Department.

Deputy Superintendent Margie Bulkin led the effort to secure the grant. She says, “Advancing STEM education in our schools is critical to ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills necessary to be prepared for college and/or career pathways to enter jobs that will demand critical thinking skills necessary for the jobs of the future.”

The T.C. Superintendent of Schools Office will operate the grant under the direction of Cathy Parker, who is the coordinator of School and District Support.