Program areas at Putnam City Public Schools Foundation
Provide 3,900 fourth and fifth-graders with the opportunity to explore stem (science, technology, engineering, and math) through activities. Students develop their natural creativity and problem solving skills by applying concepts they learn in science and math to real-world applications of engineering and technology. They learn how to work in small groups and to think critically to solve problems. The students participate in hands-on learning experiences that will empower them to enter the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.
Parents learn how to teach their preschool children language, math and reasoning, and social and emotional skills before they enter kindergarten. During the current year approximately 1,800 parents and caregviers participated in this program. All classes are conducted in english and spanish. All participants receive a parent kit that contains age appropriate toys, books, puzzles, and tools. In the classes the parents learn how to use the materials at home. Utilizing the literacy kit the parents are encouraged to spend 30 minutes each day with their child.
Immigrant parents receive instruction in speaking, listening, reading and writing english to enable them to overcome the language barrier. Parents receive 215 hours of literacy instruction each year in classes that meet two nights each weak throughout the school year. Tutoring classes for school-age children and child activity classes are offered during the class times. 105 parents participate annually. Four levels of classes are available and pre-and post-evaluations are provided to ensure the parents are in the appropriate class for their skill level.
The Foundation works to recognize and assist teachers and students through a variety of methods, including teacher of the year, golden apple awards for staff, scholarships for staff and students as well as supporting students with basic needs like eye glasses.