| VSI Tier 2
Overview
VSI Tier 2 is a one-year professional development program for K-8 teachers based on three areas: mastery of science content knowledge, learning specialized science content associated with the teaching of science, and improving general teaching practice. Tier 2 engages teachers in content-based inquiry as adult learners in a one-week summer institute designed for elementary and middle school teachers. During the school year, teachers meet regionally in monthly professional development sessions that address the specific needs of the participating teams. The VSI establishes formal partnerships with schools/districts as an integral component of Tier 2.
Program Goals of VSI Tier 2
- Involving teachers in high quality science-learning experiences that directly impact their content knowledge and their ability to translate this knowledge into high levels of student learning.
- Establishing and sustaining school support systems that are rich with learning opportunities for both students and teachers.
Key Features of VSI Tier 2
The Tier 2 program includes a one week residential institute in content-based scientific inquiry offered by science faculty in association with pedagogy specialists. Teachers receive two graduate credits in science education upon completion of this course.
Sustained academic year support includes the on-site Best Practices in Science course. VSI's science pedagogy specialists design a curriculum to meet the specific needs of the district/region, and the course is offered with a two or three credit option. Credits from this course are transferrable to the VSI Tier 1 program.
In addition to the 4/5 graduate credits, teachers receive a stipend upon completion of this program.
Cost of the VSI Tier 2 Program
The cost to participate in the VSI Tier 2 program is $1200 per year. Included in this fee is tuition for all four credits, and room and board for the summer institute.
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