The Selma Times-Journal

At a special called Dallas County School Board meeting Tuesday night, Superintendent Dr. Fannie Major-McKenzie announced five of its schools have been selected for the Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI), a program to improve math and science teaching statewide.

Bruce K. Craig Elementary, J.E. Terry Elementary, Valley Grande Elementary, Tipton Middle and Keith Middle-High schools will receive AMSTI benefits including extensive professional development, equipment, supplies and materials and at-school support by math and science specialists at no cost.

“We are very excited,” said McKenzie, who applauded the schools’ principals for their active participation.

School Board Chairman Mark Story noted the AMSTI application process is highly competitive and would like all county schools to be selected for AMSTI eventually.

“We would love to have more, but we love to have this,” he said.

Currently AMSTI is participating in a large-scale research study conducted by the U.S. Department of Education in cooperation with the Alabama Department of Education.

Craig, Terry and Tipton schools are listed as experimental AMSTI schools and will receive AMSTI benefits this summer after math and science teachers and administrators attend a two-week long AMSTI Summer Institute in July.

Valley Grande Elementary is listed as a control AMSTI school, meaning the school will not participate in AMSTI study this year, but is guaranteed a slot in the program next year.

Lastly, Keith High-Middle is listed as a regular AMSTI school. Regular AMSTI schools are not included in the U.S. Department of Education’s study.

AMSTI schools receive follow-up support and mentoring for up to two years.

In other business:

The board unanimously approved Internet e-rate access and maintenance for its schools.

The board unanimously approved a Dallas County High School English and Shakespeare class field trip to the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Lawrenceville, Ga. on Feb. 23.

School board member Peggy Williamson thanked Craig and Tipton schools for hosting School Board Recognition Programs.

Board members were treated to lunch and entertained by student groups.

“Everybody missed out that wasn’t there,” Williamson said. “It was wonderful.”

The next Dallas County School Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. at the Superintendent’s Office, 429 Lauderdale St., Selma.