RITES

Rhode Island Technology Enhanced 
Science Program
.
Your district has been selected to participate in Cohort I of the Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science
(RITES) program. We invite all middle and high school science teachers in <Insert District Name here>
Public Schools to take part in this exciting opportunity. As part of a comprehensive statewide effort to
improve education in Rhode Island, RITES aims to enhance the quality of science teaching and learning at
all secondary schools with the goal of increasing the number and diversity of students who are proficient in
science and pursue STEM careers.

RITES participants will take part in a summer professional development during the weeks of August 3 –
21, 2009. Two one and one half (1 ½) weeks short courses will be offered in two different locations.
Teachers may select from campuses and courses though all participants must take the RITEs introductory
course.

Benefits of participation include:

• Up to $1500 stipend per year for participation in RITES
• Multiple opportunities for teachers to expand their involvement
• Professional development in inquiry-based science led by higher education faculty
• Participation in a statewide professional learning community of science educators.
• Access to technology-enhanced science lessons aligned to RI GSEs
• One (1) Graduate credit per short course
• All PD courses provide Professional development credits available through RIDE (IPLAN)
• Opportunities to take additional tuition-free graduate courses (registration fees may apply).

Participant requirements – Year 1:

• Attend a 1 ½ week summer workshop (45 hours) comprised of three short courses in the summer
of 2009
• Implement RITES lessons in the classroom over the course of the 2009-2010 school year
• Participate regularly in the online community to support RITES lessons in the classroom
• Attend two call-back days of the RITES community during the 2009-2010 school year (late fall
and early spring)
• Participate in research and evaluation activities that may include surveys, observations, and
interviews
• Attend a 1 week summer workshop (30 hours) which will be comprised of two short courses in the
summer of 2010
• Create an artifact that involves selecting, implementing, revising, and sharing
a customized module

For more information contact:

Peter McLaren, Science and Technology Specialist
R.I. Department of Education
peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov – 401-222-8454