June 7, 2006TEACHER AWARDED $5,000 GRANT TO TRAVEL ABROAD Mary Patterson, a sixth-grade science teacher and department chair at Hamilton Middle School, was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from Fund for Teachers to travel to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji this summer. “This is such an incredible opportunity. I’m already looking forward to the next school year when I can implement some of the new things I learn this summer,” Patterson said. The grant, sponsored by the nonprofit organization Fund for Teachers, is offered annually to recognize teachers for their dedication to education and to support professional development opportunities designed by the teacher. Patterson chose Australia and New Zealand because she said they are “remote, far away places that hold a special mystique.” “I’ve often taught about their various biomes, geologic and climatic systems, yet what I know has come from books. I know I can make my curriculum come alive with first-hand experiences.” Patterson, who has taught in CFISD for 15 years, submitted a written proposal explaining how the summer fellowship would make her a better teacher and how her improved skills or capacity would be implemented in the classroom, benefiting students, curricula and the school. In addition, she provided information as to how she would document experiences and described in narrative form her proposed fellowship budget. “I’m looking forward to being in the role of a learner once again. I can’t wait to do ‘real science’ and have that experience to draw from when teaching next year,” Patterson said. “I’m also excited about the school visits and hope that I can forge some new relationships that will continue long after this grant is over. And of course, I can’t wait to answer my students’ question about “which way the water swirls in the toilet.” Fund for Teachers was started by Raymond Plank, founder and chairman of the Board of Apache Oil Company in Houston. The recipients, 94 educators from 59 schools in Houston, will explore the historical, cultural, and geographical sites on every continent. By pursing their professional development this summer, according to Fund for Teachers, these teachers will be equipped to assist their students in achieving academic excellence. For information on Fund for Teachers and how to apply for a fellowship, go to www.fundforteachers.org. |
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