About
The MST PORTAL is a place for teachers of math, science, and technology to Promote Open, Reflective Teaching And Learning. The primary role of the Math, Science, and Technology Specialist at Klem Road South Elementary School will be to improve K-5 student performance in the areas of science and math using various technology tools embedded into instruction. This position also provides job-embedded professional development opportunities among teachers interested in enhancing their understanding and use of a constructivist approach to teaching and learning. Connecting students with the community, both local and beyond, in real-world issues and problems will provide them with inquiry-based science and math experiences to promote critical and creative thinking.
Responsibilities:
- Develops and implements science and math unit plans in conjunction with the classroom teacher following Backwards Design template (including essential questions, formative and summative assessments, and sequential lesson plans)
- Integrates various technology tools into instruction
- Creates and maintains a classroom climate conducive to active learning
- Models lessons, co-teaches, and provides support for teachers in science and math instruction
- Shares information with colleagues to support professional growth
- Engages in personal professional growth activities
- Uses the community as an extension of the classroom to broaden the learning environment
- Implements, administers, and prepares reports for funded grant programs (HP, NYSCATE, Best Buy, etc.)
- Seeks opportunities for students to participate in global learning experiences
- Pursues additional opportunities for students/classrooms to participate in Science Fair/Science Olympiad type experiences
- Provides MST updates, information, and activities to staff and community
- Seeks opportunities to collaborate with other elementary buildings in Webster
- Explores opportunities for distance learning for both teachers and students
- Collaborates with St. John Fisher College on MST PORTAL partnership program
Another goal is to utilize videoconferencing technology to connect inservice teachers at Klem Road South Elementary School with faculty and teacher-candidates at St. John Fisher College for the purpose of planning, teaching, and reflecting on high quality MST curriculum, assessment, and instruction. The program will center on the career-long development of pedagogical content knowledge that begins at the pre-service level and continues throughout the career of the master teacher.
MST Specialist: Wendy Smith
MST PORTAL Classroom: Klem Road South Elementary School in Webster, NY
on January 31st, 2009 at 4:58 pm
Hi Mrs. Smith:
I am a parent of students at Dewitt Rd School. I am curious, with the success that you have had growing a successful MST position at Klem South, does the district intend to add that position to all elementary schools in the district?
I watched your video and it made me want to immediately enroll my kids in whatever classes you had to offer…except they don’t go to Klem South….drat!
I am very excited by what I have seen and heard of your work with the stream data and all of the grants you have acquired for Klem South. I wish that Dewitt had you as a resource!
Thanks,
Amy