Program Overview

The VISTA ELIS is a school-based professional development that engages teachers in learning science content (e.g. life processes and living systems; earth/space systems and cycles, force motion, energy and matter) and pedagogical strategies (e.g. problem-based learning, discourse, scientific practices, nature of science, authentic assessment) during summer institutes, trying these strategies with in-class coach support during the academic year, and implementing teacher-developed PBL units in their classrooms.

Specifically, each year of the professional development includes a 10-day summer institute that consists of integrated science and science pedagogy coursework (possible course credit), 2) four follow-up professional development days across the academic year, 3) in-classroom coach support during the school year, 4) completed problem-based learning unit plans and assessments for use in their own classroom, 5) opportunities for reflection and feedback from peers, coaches, and instructors. These components will be integrated throughout the PD with the goal of improving elementary teachers’ science content knowledge and capacity to integrate science and literacy instruction.

Cohort 1 teachers (geared more toward grades 3-5) have the opportunity to participate for three years, earning up to $3000 ($1000 stipend for each year of participation) and cohort 2 teachers (geared more toward preK-2) participate for two years, earning up to $2000 ($1000 stipend for each year of participation).