Programs
Competent teachers are those able to effectively implement a standards-based, inquiry-centered STEM curriculum. These teachers have a deep and rich understanding of research-based learning strategies. They develop experience with hands-on materials and activities, plan for effective instruction, and learn classroom strategies that promote student engagement. Additionally, they demonstrate a deep and rich understanding of relevant content in the subject they teach.
At the heart of our programs are design structures intended to improve instruction in mathematics and science.
Instructional Coaching (iCoaching)
The Mathematics and Science Coaching Initiative began in 2003 with thirty-three coaches supported by S²TEM Centers SC (then known as the SC Department of Education's Mathematics & Science Unit). During that school year, these K-5 coaches worked with 780 teachers, providing an average of sixty contact hours of coaching per teacher.
Beginning with the 2006-07 school year, SCCMS began the iCoaching Initiative focused on preparing instructional coaches at the middle school level. Studies of student achievement on state accountability tests consistently show gains on a majority of measures at the highest performance levels. Science performance is especially robust in schools with instructional coaches.
As of 2011, S²TEM Centers SC and SCCMS have trained and supported over 300 school-based mathematics and science coaches who have influenced the instruction offered by more than 7,000 teachers impacting learning for over 150,000 students. (We need to link to a S²TEM Centers repository of coaching resources…if that’s in the plan for the other website or build one for SCCMS.)
SCCMS seeks to expand the availability and impact of instructional coaches in South Carolina schools and to promote our state's expertise with coaching to national and international audiences of school reformers. SCCMS, along with S²TEM Centers SC, also fosters coaching as a professional leadership pathway for teachers, administrators, and other school leaders.
We are proud that iCoaching has been nominated by Ashoka’s Changemakers for consideration in their 2011 Partners in Excellence Innovations in Science + Technology + Engineering + Math Education competition.
S²TEM Centers SC
S²TEM Centers SC develops the capacity of school districts, schools and teachers in ways consistent with the S²TEM Centers SC Theory of Action for Instructional Improvement. The S²TEM Centers develop self-directed and self-supporting schools through innovation, support, and research. Learn More . . .
SC Summit on STEM Education
SCCMS hosted the 2011 Summit on STEM Education last summer at the University Center in Greenville, South Carolina. The Summit provided a local venue for the STEM community to showcase successful STEM strategies, connect with those interested in taking action to improve instruction and student achievement, engage in dialogue as partners and colleagues and make new connections with people and ideas. Stay connected with other STEM advocates -- Click Here