TCNJ Stands TALL for Local School Districts

Teachers as Leaders and Learners (TALL), a partnership between The College of New Jersey and the Trenton School District, hosted the Summer Science Institute at the College’s Center for Mathematics, Science and Technology from August 23 through August 26.

More than 60 elementary and middle school teachers from the Trenton public schools and the Trenton Diocese attended the workshop, where they focused on different science and math curricula, how to teach these subjects, and how to implement strategies in an urban classroom setting. Participating teachers will continue to receive follow-up support throughout the school year.

The program was very popular among teachers in the Trenton school district.  “We are known for our high-quality workshop and for the fact that the partnership is ongoing and sustained,” said Sharon Sherman, professor of elementary/early childhood education at the College. “We have a full-house whenever we offer something like this.”

The institute featured two parts: a presentation of fundamentals needed for teaching solid elementary science and middle school mathematics, and True Colors© equity and diversity training.

Workshops in discrete mathematics (for middle school teachers) were taught by Cathy Liebars, assistant professor in the College’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics.

Science teachers spent time looking at chemistry, biology, physics, and earth science activities appropriate for kindergarten through grade five. Workshops also examined lesson planning, engaging students in classroom activity, assessing student understanding, materials needs, time needs, and the science concepts that teachers need to deliver effective lessons.

The teachers requested the workshop take place prior to the beginning of the school year because, “They wanted the opportunity to collaborate with one another and with the professors at the College in planning science and math lessons for their students and in thinking through the science and math curriculum,” Sherman said.  “I think that one of the most important things about our partnership is that the professional development is tailored to the needs of teachers who work with students in the Trenton public schools.”

 “Earlier this summer we provided four week-long math investigation institutes for teachers of kindergarten through second grade in Trenton. We provided three week-long math institutes for teachers who work in Pemberton public schools. We’ve had a busy summer.”

TALL's mission is to work directly with the Trenton School District to present new and tested methodologies designed to help implement practical lesson plans for students to learn math and science and to integrate technology into everyday lessons and activities in pre-K to grade eight classrooms. The program aims to improve educational opportunity, equity, and performance for Trenton’s 13,000 students through high quality professional development. All of TALL’s workshops and programs emphasize the use of technology and literacy in teaching math and science.