Bayless Awarded Federal Professional Development Grant
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education selects Bayless to receive professional development funding in a three year grant.
by Bettie Downs
May 12, 2009
The Bayless school District applied for and received a Federal Math and Science Partnership grant. Bayless is one of two Missouri districts select in this competitive grant process. The grant will fund high quality professional development as defined by the federal, ‘No Child Left Behind’ legislation. This funding will pay for Bayless math and science teachers in grades 6 through 12 to work with professors from the University of Missouri St. Louis to improve their content knowledge. In addition all teachers in grades 6-12 will be involved in professional development that promotes language acquisition. The title of the program is Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol or SIOP. The grant provides funds to bring in national trainers to Bayless to work with our staff over the next three years.
Bayless is a unique place. We are one of the most diverse districts in the state. Our diversity also challenges us to teach in a manner that will help students acquire language and content skills. The grant will provide funding to support teacher development. Steve Brotherton, the district’s Assistant Superintendent said, “The district is thrilled to be selected for the opportunity to implement this innovative program. There is no way we could fund this type of program without the grant. It is our belief that this professional development will translate to positive student outcomes.”
