The best of what we do is often done together. For example, our grant award from the S. D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation resulted from the efforts of multiple faculty and staff in the School of Education, the College of Engineering, the College of Architecture and Environmental Design, the Liberal Studies Department and the Lucia Mar School District. Working together, we will produce problem-based learning activities that include engineering principles. This collaboratively produced curriculum will benefit local teachers and students.
Two new programs also highlight the joint efforts of faculty, staff and teachers-in-residence. Our Bilingual Authorization program is in its first year of operation and showing great promise. The curriculum and instruction master’s degree specialization is expected to begin in fall 2015 and will be a highlight of the next academic year.
A number of new faculty members have joined us this year. We are proud to welcome Briana Ronan and Leah Wood as assistant professors. Andrea Somoza-Norton will join the faculty in the educational leadership and administration program later this year; the Special Education Program will add another faculty member as well.
Also joining the School of Education is Kim Barton, our administrative support coordinator. Kim has a rich history at Cal Poly, most recently in the History Department. We’re glad to have her in the mix.
We are also grateful for the generosity of our donors. Their support has allowed us to give over $30,000 in scholarships, bring in students from area K-12 schools for events, and help school administrators. Much of what we are able to accomplish has been supported by their kindness.
Finally, I continue to be impressed by our students. In their classwork, they are insightful and hard working; in their field work, they benefit all they encounter.
My door is always open. I invite you to stop in to talk about our programs and initiatives. I can also be found on Twitter @JonMargerumLeys and the School of Education can be found on Twitter with #CalPolySOE and on Facebook.
