Lessons learned in the SCIAD program

The Southwest New Mexico Science Advisor Program (SCIAD) program, a schools-community partnership was implemented during the 1991-1992 school year. The program pairs a scientist with the faculty and students of a school. In an effort to encourage students to appreciate and understand scientific and mathematical concepts, scientists act as professional resources for teachers and role models for children. While there is an emphasis on meteorological activities, the philosophy of the program is to provide the students with instruction in many sciences; including biology, geology, oceanography, astronomy, environmental sciences, and physics. This article and presentation will describe the SCIAD program at University Hills Elementary School in Las Cruces, New Mexico, the different teaching styles implemented to fulfill all student needs, and results of the program.