The second annual Idaho Math Cup kicks off today in schools across the state, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna announced.
As part of the Idaho Math Initiative, Apangea Math hosts the annual Idaho Math Cup, which challenges students to build their math skills by solving more complex math problems.
“The Idaho Math Cup has been a great success in motivating Idaho’s kids even more to build a strong foundation in math and improve on the great progress they have made,” Superintendent Luna said.
The Idaho Math Cup contest runs September 27 through October 24. During this month, classes of students will compete to solve problems on Apangea Math. The winning class will bring home the Idaho Math Cup along with a class grand prize, which includes a “Family Activity Pack.” The contest also features individual prizes for students, including a Nintendo Wii Bundle, iPod Touches or retail gift cards.
Last year, students in Mr. John Keiser’s 6th grade class at White Pine Elementary School in Boise won the statewide Idaho Math Cup. The students were so excited about the competition, they began showing up at school as early as 7 a.m. to work on Apangea – more than an hour before school started at 8:45 a.m.
For full details, visit the Idaho Math Cup page on Facebook.
Apangea Math, a web-based supplemental math instruction tool, has helped raise student achievement in mathematics by providing extra assistance to students who struggle in math and advanced opportunities to those students who excel.
Take a look at this video to see how Apangea Math has made a real difference in the lives of students at White Pine Elementary School in Boise as well as other schools across Idaho.
~ Melissa M.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
Superintendent Luna Announces Holiday Card Contest
Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna today called for elementary students across Idaho to participate in the annual Holiday Card Contest.
“The Holiday Card Contest is a great opportunity for elementary students from across the state to showcase their artistic abilities and for us all to recognize the importance of arts in education,” Superintendent Luna said.
The contest is open to all public school students in grades K-6. One drawing will be selected to be published on the State Department of Education’s website and used as the Department’s holiday greeting card. The child who submits the selected artwork will receive cards for his or her own use.
The following is a list of instructions for the 2010 Holiday Card Contest:
~ Melissa M.
“The Holiday Card Contest is a great opportunity for elementary students from across the state to showcase their artistic abilities and for us all to recognize the importance of arts in education,” Superintendent Luna said.
The contest is open to all public school students in grades K-6. One drawing will be selected to be published on the State Department of Education’s website and used as the Department’s holiday greeting card. The child who submits the selected artwork will receive cards for his or her own use.
The following is a list of instructions for the 2010 Holiday Card Contest:
- The contest is open to public school students in grades K-6.
- Drawings should reflect winter scenes in Idaho appropriate for seasonal correspondence, and should not include copyrighted images such as Garfield the Cat, Bugs Bunny, Digimon characters, etc.
- Drawings should be on 8.5” by 11” paper in a landscape format.
- Drawings must be properly labeled. Write the name of the student, the student’s grade, district, school, and the teacher's name on the back of the artwork. Please make sure this information is legible. (If you submit multiple grade levels, please keep the entries for each grade level separate.)
- Students may use as many colors as they wish in their drawings and may use watercolors, colored paper, magic markers, crayons, or some combination. Bold colors work best for the printing process. Please note: Fabric designs and pencil drawings are not suitable to our printing process and will not be selected.
- Students must be advised that entry into this contest constitutes (1) a waiver of all copyrights students have in their entries, and (2) permission to republish entries without compensation.
- Drawings will not be returned.
- The winning entries from each grade level will be published on the Idaho State Department of Education website.
- Submissions must be postmarked by Friday, November 5, 2010. Results will be announced in December.
- Drawings may be mailed to: State Department of Education, ATTN: Melissa McGrath, P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0027
~ Melissa M.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Applications for Idaho Science & Aerospace Scholars Program Now Available
Idaho’s high school juniors can apply now to take part in the exciting second year of the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program.
Through this competitive program, students from across Idaho take an engaging online course in space exploration and learn a broad range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills aligned with Idaho’s content standards. Based on their performance in this course, students are then selected to participate in a weeklong, all-expenses-paid, residential Summer Academy at Boise State University and NASA Ames Research Center in California.
“The Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program and Summer Academy give Idaho students the unprecedented opportunity to work directly with experts in science, technology, engineering and mathematics at NASA and throughout Idaho,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said. “I am excited we have been able to secure a grant from NASA and expand this program to even more students statewide this year.”
Last year, more than 70 high school juniors participated in the inaugural Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program. Based on this success, the State Department of Education received a $1.2 million grant from NASA to expand the program over the next two years. The state plans to serve 180 students this year.
Superintendent Luna worked with astronaut and Boise State Distinguished Educator-in-Residence Barbara Morgan in 2009 to create this competitive program in Idaho. The State Department of Education funded the initial pilot year with help and support from partners, such as Boise State University, Idaho Digital Learning Academy, Discovery Center of Idaho, Micron Foundation, Hewlett-Packard, Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho Air National Guard, University of Idaho and Idaho State University.
Students can learn more about the experience of the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Summer Academy by checking out our live blog of this summer’s events or downloading ISAS Alumni Presentation.
If you know of any high school juniors who have a passion for STEM subjects, please urge them to apply for this outstanding program. The application deadline is November 15, 2010.
Apply now!
If you have questions during the application process, please contact Dr. Val Schorzman at (208) 332-6920 or vjschorzman@sde.idaho.gov.
~ Melissa M.
Through this competitive program, students from across Idaho take an engaging online course in space exploration and learn a broad range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills aligned with Idaho’s content standards. Based on their performance in this course, students are then selected to participate in a weeklong, all-expenses-paid, residential Summer Academy at Boise State University and NASA Ames Research Center in California.
“The Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program and Summer Academy give Idaho students the unprecedented opportunity to work directly with experts in science, technology, engineering and mathematics at NASA and throughout Idaho,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said. “I am excited we have been able to secure a grant from NASA and expand this program to even more students statewide this year.”
Last year, more than 70 high school juniors participated in the inaugural Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Program. Based on this success, the State Department of Education received a $1.2 million grant from NASA to expand the program over the next two years. The state plans to serve 180 students this year.
Superintendent Luna worked with astronaut and Boise State Distinguished Educator-in-Residence Barbara Morgan in 2009 to create this competitive program in Idaho. The State Department of Education funded the initial pilot year with help and support from partners, such as Boise State University, Idaho Digital Learning Academy, Discovery Center of Idaho, Micron Foundation, Hewlett-Packard, Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho Air National Guard, University of Idaho and Idaho State University.
Students can learn more about the experience of the Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars Summer Academy by checking out our live blog of this summer’s events or downloading ISAS Alumni Presentation.
If you know of any high school juniors who have a passion for STEM subjects, please urge them to apply for this outstanding program. The application deadline is November 15, 2010.
Apply now!
If you have questions during the application process, please contact Dr. Val Schorzman at (208) 332-6920 or vjschorzman@sde.idaho.gov.
~ Melissa M.
Idaho Secures Grant to Improve School Safety
Idaho has been awarded a $125,000 federal grant to continue its work in ensuring every student across our state attends school in a safe and secure environment, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna announced this week.
“The safety and security of Idaho’s kids is of the highest importance. Our students will never truly be free to learn until they are free from fear,” Superintendent Luna said.
The U.S. Department of Education announced this week Idaho is one of 28 states to receive a Building State Capacity for Preventing Youth Substance Use and Violence program competitive grant. States use this grant funding to support local school districts and public charter schools in their efforts to create and sustain safe and drug-free school environments.
The Idaho State Department of Education will specifically use the $125,000 it receives to maintain its structure of support and technical assistance for Idaho’s public schools and communities across Idaho. The Department will provide hands-on training and create guidance for students, school staff and community stakeholders on how they can work together to mitigate and prevent underage drinking, suicide, bullying and truancy to improve student achievement.
Since taking office in 2007, Superintendent Luna has worked to improve the safety and security of Idaho’s schools. He spearheaded the Safe and Secure Schools Assessment in 2007, which provided baseline data on school safety and security and brought about meaningful recommendations on ways in which Idaho schools could improve.
Superintendent Luna has also awarded $50,000 to Idaho schools to implement the highly successful Rachel’s Challenge program, which prevents bullying and intimidation among schoolchildren.
~ Melissa M.
“The safety and security of Idaho’s kids is of the highest importance. Our students will never truly be free to learn until they are free from fear,” Superintendent Luna said.
The U.S. Department of Education announced this week Idaho is one of 28 states to receive a Building State Capacity for Preventing Youth Substance Use and Violence program competitive grant. States use this grant funding to support local school districts and public charter schools in their efforts to create and sustain safe and drug-free school environments.
The Idaho State Department of Education will specifically use the $125,000 it receives to maintain its structure of support and technical assistance for Idaho’s public schools and communities across Idaho. The Department will provide hands-on training and create guidance for students, school staff and community stakeholders on how they can work together to mitigate and prevent underage drinking, suicide, bullying and truancy to improve student achievement.
Since taking office in 2007, Superintendent Luna has worked to improve the safety and security of Idaho’s schools. He spearheaded the Safe and Secure Schools Assessment in 2007, which provided baseline data on school safety and security and brought about meaningful recommendations on ways in which Idaho schools could improve.
Superintendent Luna has also awarded $50,000 to Idaho schools to implement the highly successful Rachel’s Challenge program, which prevents bullying and intimidation among schoolchildren.
~ Melissa M.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
IDLA Announces New CEO
After eight years at the helm, Idaho Digital Learning Academy’s CEO Donna Hutchison has accepted a notable position with a national online school. This fall, Hutchison will become Regional Vice President with Connections Academy.
“This job offer is a direct reflection on IDLA’s reputation as a national leader in 21st Century learning,” said Hutchison. “As a founding member of IDLA, I am sad to leave the organization, but I am looking forward to the challenge of advancing online learning by serving students at a regional and national level.”
At Hutchison’s recommendation, the IDLA Board of Directors appointed veteran administrator, Cheryl Charlton to take over the role of Chief Executive Officer. For the past three years, Charlton has been IDLA’s Chief Operating Officer.
“I am excited to elevate my role within this outstanding organization,” said Charlton. “The demand for our online services continues to grow and we will continue to serve the needs of students throughout Idaho.”
In 2002, Idaho Digital Learning was created by the Idaho Legislature and Idaho School Administrator Association. Since its inception, it has served more than 40,000 students in nearly all of Idaho’s school districts!
“We are proud of IDLA’s accomplishments and its service to Idaho students under the direction of Donna Hutchison,” said George Boland, IDLA Board Chairman. “We are not surprised that her talents are being recognized at the national level. We are also delighted that Cheryl Charlton will succeed Donna as the next visionary leader of IDLA.”
“I will always remain passionate about the importance of IDLA and its role in the future of online learning and opportunities for students,” said Hutchison. “It has been a job of a lifetime!”
Charlton will take over as CEO effective November 1, 2010.
~ Melissa M.
“This job offer is a direct reflection on IDLA’s reputation as a national leader in 21st Century learning,” said Hutchison. “As a founding member of IDLA, I am sad to leave the organization, but I am looking forward to the challenge of advancing online learning by serving students at a regional and national level.”
At Hutchison’s recommendation, the IDLA Board of Directors appointed veteran administrator, Cheryl Charlton to take over the role of Chief Executive Officer. For the past three years, Charlton has been IDLA’s Chief Operating Officer.
“I am excited to elevate my role within this outstanding organization,” said Charlton. “The demand for our online services continues to grow and we will continue to serve the needs of students throughout Idaho.”
In 2002, Idaho Digital Learning was created by the Idaho Legislature and Idaho School Administrator Association. Since its inception, it has served more than 40,000 students in nearly all of Idaho’s school districts!
“We are proud of IDLA’s accomplishments and its service to Idaho students under the direction of Donna Hutchison,” said George Boland, IDLA Board Chairman. “We are not surprised that her talents are being recognized at the national level. We are also delighted that Cheryl Charlton will succeed Donna as the next visionary leader of IDLA.”
“I will always remain passionate about the importance of IDLA and its role in the future of online learning and opportunities for students,” said Hutchison. “It has been a job of a lifetime!”
Charlton will take over as CEO effective November 1, 2010.
~ Melissa M.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Superintendent Luna Marks Constitution Day with School Visits
BOISE – Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna visited Kellogg High School this morning to celebrate Constitution Day by speaking with students about the importance of the U.S. Constitution.
Constitution Day is September 17, commemorating the day in 1787 when our country’s founders signed the United States Constitution.
“Constitution Day is an important day each year because it gives us the opportunity to celebrate the miracle in Philadelphia and teach students about the U.S. Constitution, which is the foundation of our republic and remains the supreme law of the land to this day,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said.
All public schools in Idaho and across the country are required to teach about the U.S. Constitution on September 17. Lessons about the U.S. Constitution help Idaho’s students to better understand the role of a citizen in a constitutional republic and the importance of respecting and obeying laws enacted by the Idaho Legislature and Congress of the United States.
On Thursday, September 16, Superintendent Luna spent the morning in the Kootenai School District in Harrison, where he spoke with high school juniors about the history of the U.S. Constitution and the role it still plays in our lives today. The Superintendent visited all the schools in the Kootenai district, reading to 2nd grade students, seeing an innovative graphic design program first-hand, and listening to the district’s plans to offer more educational opportunities for students through the Idaho Education Network.
~Niccole B.
Constitution Day is September 17, commemorating the day in 1787 when our country’s founders signed the United States Constitution.
“Constitution Day is an important day each year because it gives us the opportunity to celebrate the miracle in Philadelphia and teach students about the U.S. Constitution, which is the foundation of our republic and remains the supreme law of the land to this day,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said.
All public schools in Idaho and across the country are required to teach about the U.S. Constitution on September 17. Lessons about the U.S. Constitution help Idaho’s students to better understand the role of a citizen in a constitutional republic and the importance of respecting and obeying laws enacted by the Idaho Legislature and Congress of the United States.
On Thursday, September 16, Superintendent Luna spent the morning in the Kootenai School District in Harrison, where he spoke with high school juniors about the history of the U.S. Constitution and the role it still plays in our lives today. The Superintendent visited all the schools in the Kootenai district, reading to 2nd grade students, seeing an innovative graphic design program first-hand, and listening to the district’s plans to offer more educational opportunities for students through the Idaho Education Network.
~Niccole B.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Idaho Students Outpace Peers Nationally on SAT
BOISE – Idaho students continue to outperform their peers nationally and in neighboring states on the SAT, according to the most recent results.
“I am excited to see Idaho students continue to outpace students nationally and their peers in Washington, Oregon and other surrounding states on the SAT. We still have a lot of work to do to ensure every student is college- and career-ready after high school, but I celebrate the great achievements our students have made so far and look forward to building on this progress,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said.
The SAT is a college readiness exam that students take when applying for undergraduate colleges and universities in the United States. The SAT measures students’ skills in critical reading, mathematics and writing.
On average, Idaho students scored a 1601. That’s well above the national average score of 1509 and above students in most of Idaho’s surrounding states. For example, students in Washington State scored an average 1564, and Oregon students scored an average 1546, according to the 2010 SAT results.
Here is how Idaho students, on average, scored when compared to students around the country in each subject area:
Idaho National average
Critical Reading 543 501
Mathematics 541 516
Writing 517 492
Total 1601 1509
To see the full report on the 2010 SAT scores, visit http://www.collegeboard.com/
Superintendent Luna has played a lead role in the Education Alliance of Idaho, a coalition of leaders in the education and business communities throughout Idaho working to ensure every Idaho student not only graduates from high school but graduates prepared to go on to postsecondary education or the workforce without the need for remediation.
Learn more about the Education Alliance of Idaho and its plan to improve education statewide at http://www.sde.idaho.gov/site/visionmissiongoals.htm
Great job students!
~Niccole B.
“I am excited to see Idaho students continue to outpace students nationally and their peers in Washington, Oregon and other surrounding states on the SAT. We still have a lot of work to do to ensure every student is college- and career-ready after high school, but I celebrate the great achievements our students have made so far and look forward to building on this progress,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said.
The SAT is a college readiness exam that students take when applying for undergraduate colleges and universities in the United States. The SAT measures students’ skills in critical reading, mathematics and writing.
On average, Idaho students scored a 1601. That’s well above the national average score of 1509 and above students in most of Idaho’s surrounding states. For example, students in Washington State scored an average 1564, and Oregon students scored an average 1546, according to the 2010 SAT results.
Here is how Idaho students, on average, scored when compared to students around the country in each subject area:
Idaho National average
Critical Reading 543 501
Mathematics 541 516
Writing 517 492
Total 1601 1509
To see the full report on the 2010 SAT scores, visit http://www.collegeboard.com/
Superintendent Luna has played a lead role in the Education Alliance of Idaho, a coalition of leaders in the education and business communities throughout Idaho working to ensure every Idaho student not only graduates from high school but graduates prepared to go on to postsecondary education or the workforce without the need for remediation.
Learn more about the Education Alliance of Idaho and its plan to improve education statewide at http://www.sde.idaho.gov/site/visionmissiongoals.htm
Great job students!
~Niccole B.
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