Primary Goal and Objectives of CHAMPS

The goal of the CHAMPS Project is to improve teacher quality in the 17  high needs districts located in Northeast Mississippi by providing a comprehensive program of professional development.

Specific objectives include:

* increasing mathematics content knowledge

* increasing knowledge of the Understanding by Design framework

* increasing the use of  manipulatives and inquiry-based instructional  strategies

* increasing the appropriate alignment of teaching activities to the state  curriculum standards

* increasing the leadership activities of  participants within their schools

* increasing the participants’ involvement in high-quality professional development activities

* increasing middle school mathematics achievement

 
TARGETED DISTRICTS:
Aberdeen, Amory, Chickasaw County, Columbus,
Houston, Kemper County, Lee County, Louisville,
Lowndes County, Noxubee County, Okolona, Oktibbeha County, Philadelphia, Starkville, Tupelo, Webster County, and West Point.

Who is eligible for this opportunity?

Teachers of mathematics in grades 5-8 who teach at a school located in the 17 districts targeted by the CHAMPS Project. 

Special Education teachers and teachers not currently teaching mathematics are also eligible.

How are teachers selected for CHAMPS?

Up to 50 teachers will be selected based on their interest in professional growth and development and the quality of their             application materials.

What will I receive for participating in the
CHAMPS Project?

à   7 Continuing Education Credits (CEU’s) for attendance at the summer institute, and 0.5 CEU’s for each Super Saturday conference.

à   Instructional materials, supplies, and a $70.00 per day stipend for each day of  training.

à   Hands-on training in the use of  mathematics manipulatives, WebCT, curriculum alignment, and the Understanding by Design Framework.

à   Membership, conference fees, travel and meals for the Mississippi Council of Teachers of   Mathematics and the National Council of    Teachers of Mathematics.

à   “Highly Qualified” endorsement in mathematics if you currently  hold a Mississippi teaching license in one of the following areas:   K-8, 1-9, or K-12 SPED.

About the CHAMPS Project:

The CHAMPS  Project is funded through a Mississippi Department of Education  Mathematics and Science Partnership Grant.

The CHAMPS Project includes a research and evaluation component for each of its objectives. The major benefits to teachers who participate in the CHAMPS Project will be an increased content knowledge base and extension of pedagogical practices used to support students’ learning needs. Additionally, teachers will increase their participation in high quality professional development opportunities in mathematics.

All CHAMPS Project services are provided at no cost to the participants.