PROGRAM OBJECTIVE
To bring resource people into classrooms of the Altoona Area School District where they can share their expertise with students, staff, and in some cases, members of the community.
A VALUABLE EXPERIENCE
Exciting things have occurred in our schools when a guest educator has taken up residence in a classroom.
In recent years, numerous Educator-in-Residence programs have taken place which were highly motivational for both students and staff.
Noted authors and illustrators of children's books have spent an entire week in District elementary schools. Their discussions with students and staff about the process of writing and illustrating books have been enthusiastically received.
World-class musicians like Associated Solo Artists of Peekskill, NY, have conducted inter-disciplinary workshops in elementary and secondary schools. As a result, hundreds of students enjoyed an unforgettable experience in the arts.
Programs of this type have a maximum impact as they provide an extra-special opportunity for learning.
Click here for a listing of funded projects in 2009-2010.
HOW DOES THE EDUCATOR-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM WORK?
There are many excellent resource people in the area who are willing to share their time and talents without expecting any remuneration.
When there is a cost involved in bringing an Educator-in-Residence to the school district, the Altoona Area School District Foundation is a possible source of funding.
A simple, one-page application must be completed and submitted to Thomas M. Bradley, the Foundation's executive director.
The Foundation Projects Committee will meet two times throughout the year to consider the proposals.
Based on the merit of the proposed projects and the availability of funds, a yearly program of Educator-in-Residence experiences will be scheduled once they are approved by the Foundation Board of Directors.
SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Q. Who can apply?
A. Virtually any member of the District's professional staff. This would include teachers, principals and curriculum supervisors.
Q. How can the program be organized?
A. Educator-in-Residence programs can be set up for the entire District, a school, a department or a specific grade level.
Q. How will projects be selected for funding?
A. The Foundation Projects Committee will consider the merits of each proposal on an individual basis. Innovative programs that have the potential for a lasting impact on students and teachers will be given top priority.
Q. Can the Educator-in-Residence program be linked to the community?
A. Most definitely! Visiting educators could meet with parents and/or civic groups while they are in Altoona in an effort to broaden the base of interest and support for improved public schools.
Q. Can I obtain matching funds for my project?
A. Yes! For projects with a large budget, this may be essential. When additional funds are available from PTO groups, Music Parents, community organizations or sources like the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Foundation resources can be used more efficiently.
Q. When can proposals be submitted?
A. The Projects Committee will meet to evaluate proposals during the first week of October and again during the first week of January. Proposals submitted after January 2 will not be considered until the following school year.
Q. How much paperwork is involved?
A. Not very much. If you are selected to receive a grant, you will be required to submit a record of expenditures and receipts. You must also write a one-page evaluation of the project after is has been completed.
APPLICATIONS FOR EDUCATOR-IN-RESIDENCE PROPOSALS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE OF EACH SCHOOL. (Click here to obtain form to print and complete or click here to fill-in the form online. Print the completed form and forward to Tom Bradley. NOTE: Adobe Acrobat Reader is needed. Application is formatted to print on 8-1/2 X 14 paper.)
If you have questions or need further information, please call Tom Bradley at 946-8424 or email him at tbradley@aasdcat.com.
