Using Science to Bridge Achievement Gaps

Abstract

Simpson Street Free Press (SSFP) delivers high-quality academic instruction in after-school settings. Local students (ages 8-18) publish five separate youth newspapers. New academic standards emphasize writing proficiency and literacy. Productive use of out-of-school time is crucial, particularly for students from lower income backgrounds. Central to SSFP pedagogy is across the curriculum instructional practices. And science writing for publication is a central to our formula. Each of our newspapers includes several science sections, and space science is our most read and most popular content. SSFP lesson plans are expertly designed to support in-school learning. Students encounter predictable connections to the school day. Our young writers conduct research, use technology, write and read extensively. This system accomplishes multiple outcomes. Students learn transferable academic strategies. School grades and attendance are measured. SSFP students participate in civic discourse and influence their peers. Teachers use SSFP materials in local classrooms. Thousands of young readers and their families explore science through the work of SSFP student reporters. Young readers are inspired by the voices of southern Wisconsin's most effective and best-known local role models.