In 1977, a group of Massachusetts educators and administrators entered into a collaborative agreement aimed at increasing the exchange of educational and instructional resources between them. In establishing the Consortium, they created a network through which the varied resources of urban and suburban school systems, large and small communities, and public service agencies in the greater Boston area could be enhanced and shared.
Today, the Consortium includes seven public school systems and five agencies. Funded by the Boston University School of Education, the program supports activities ranging from an innovative fitness program in Lexington to family field trips in Allston. As part of the collaborative arrangement, students enrolled in education and human services programs at the School of Education complete field study in a diversity of settings offered by the member districts and agencies.
Consortium benefits include:
• Funding of improved services and enrichment activities
• Exchange of services
• Cooperative efforts in curriculum design
• Placement in University field-based programs
• Consortium members’ access to University services
• Student access to educators in the field
• Consortium scholarships
• Pre-Practicum field experience sites
• Annual Educators Seminars:
• Cyberethics in the Googling Age
• A World of Stories featuring Don Brown,
award-winning illustrator and author
• A World of Inspiration featuring award-winning
children’s book author Robert San Souci
• Communication: Talking to and about Families
Recently Funded Projects
Arts Presentations
Thomas A. Edison Middle School, Brighton
Students in grades 6-8 brought visual arts, theatre, music, and dance together for an introduction to and appreciation for the arts. Funding provided for costumes, instruments, and consultants for the production.
Character Education Program
The John Silber Early Learning Center, Chelsea
Entertainer and educator “Johnny the K” performed three interactive musical performances for PreK students on character development to complement social and emotional curriculum (teaching pride in accomplishments and self-confidence).
Community Connections Program
Newton North High School, Newton
This program worked with students with severe and
multiple disabilities who have completed their academic course work and are continuing to receive special education services past the age of 18. Funding provided for
instruction of real-life skills curriculum.
Creating A Community of Science Inquiry
F. Lyman Winship School, Brighton
Funding supported resources for the creation of a
community of science inquiry in which science was woven throughout the curriculum and throughout the school day.
Dissection Specimens
Somerville High School, Somerville
Physiology teachers increased the number of laboratory experiences for high schol students in physiology classes.
Educational Enrichment Programs
League School of Greater Boston, Walpole
Enrichment programs enhanced social skills and reinforced lessons discussed in the classroom for disabled students.
Family Field Trips
Jackson/Mann Elementary School, Allston
Children and their families, many of whom are first
generation immigrants and speakers of English as a second language, visited the Boston Children’s Museum and the New England Aquarium and picked apples to encourage parent participation in children’s learning experiences.
Fitness Skillastics Exercise Program
Harrington School, Lexington
Students in grades K-5 learned about fitness concepts: cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, muscular strength, and endurance through games aimed at improving fitness levels.
Learning To Get Along Program
Underwood Elementary School, Newton
Through this program, students in grades K-3 received instruction in social and self-help skills.
Massachusetts Debate Championship
Chelsea High School, Chelsea
Members of the new Chelsea High School Speech and
Debate Team entered the state debate championship.
Movement/Dance Workshops
Clinton Path Preschool, Brookline
PreK students developed their listening skills and motor coordination in these two and a half hour weekly dance sessions.
New York City Trip
Joseph A. Browne School, Chelsea
Eighth grade students visited New York City with their classmates for a study of the history, politics, and culture of the city.
Program To Go!
Lincoln School, Brookline
Fourth grade students learned about the Revolutionary War using Colonial crafts and primary source analysis.
Step Into Math Project
Lawrence School, Brookline
Students in grades PreK-8 used pedometers for math
enrichment and integration of math with physical education and technology.
Writing Workshop
Alcott School, Concord
Teachers improved the school’s writing programs and
students’ writing performance. Teachers gained proficiency in the Lucy Calkins writing workshop method.
For more information, contact Associate Dean Joan Dee, Boston University School of Education,
Two Sherborn Street, Boston, MA 02215
617-353-3212
jdee@bu.edu
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