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Intel Schools of Distinction Program

http://www.schoolsofdistinction.com/

The 2007 Intel Schools of Distinction / Overview

The 2007 Intel Schools of Distinction Program is now in its 4th year. Our mission has always been to identify schools that exemplify the best of the best and serve as role models to other schools across the nation. In 2007, Schools of Distinction has undergone a transformation focusing on two subject areas which are key to our nation's future—math and science. We will now focus on identifying schools with learning environments that promote 21st century learning skills, such as digital literacy, problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration as a benchmark for academic excellence in mathematic and scientific achievement.

Applicants will complete an application which is submitted online. Six winners will be selected—one from each grade range, K-5, 6-8, and 9-12, in each of the two categories of math and science. Each winning school will receive a $10,000 cash grant from the Intel Foundation, as well as $150,000 in products and services from the program awards sponsors. One of the final six winners will be identified as the Star Innovator for 2007. This school will receive an additional $15,000 cash grant from the Intel Foundation, as well as supplemental services and products from the award sponsors.

Find out more about the application process.

Math and Science Categories

Programs for either math or science should be designed to ensure high levels of achievement for all students in all program areas. Exemplary applicants will be selected by examining the extent to which they represent the intersection of the benchmarks laid out by the Partnership for 21st Century Skills in their ICT literacy maps for each content area (math and science) and national content standards for that content area. In addition, judges will take into consideration each school's:

• Professional development program(s)
• Leadership model
• Level of community involvement
• Level of collaboration/teamwork
• Capacity to scale and sustain
• Use of rich digital content
• Level of student achievement
• A variety of instructional strategies incorporating such areas as critical thinking skills, hands-on experiences, and project-based learning.