Project Overview

"Project SMART is a perfect example of how schools and higher education can work together to improve learning in public schools. This grant will serve to make an authentic difference in the science, math, and literacy preparation of many young learners. Project SMART will develop young learners right from the start of school to see science as fundamental to who they are, rather than a class to take or a subject to learn."

-Dean Donald N. Cardinal, Chapman University School of Education

In the first three years of the grant, Chapman science and mathematics faculty will work on an ongoing basis with practicing Anaheim City School District teachers and future elementary teachers enrolled in Chapman's teacher education program on their understanding of science, math, and technology, while Chapman education faculty will work with participants on strategies for delivering science-based integrated instruction in the primary grades. Teachers will then implement the activities presented and strategies learned in their own K-2 classrooms with their students, and meet regularly with their peers to examine their progress and share their experiences. Throughout the project, participating students will be observed and evaluated on their progress in all content areas and their results compared to students who are not enrolled in the program.