AR AIMS is currently taking applications for new schools as we recruit for Cohort 6 with an implementation date of Fall 2014.  The deadline has been extended to March 31, 2014.

If your school is interested please complete the application below online or print and fill out the PDF version of the application available here: Updated AIMS Program Application 2014

You may submit this application via mail, fax, or email at:

Dr. Kenneth James, President, AR AIMS

2801 S. University Avenue, Speech Room 217

Little Rock, AR  72204  501-683-7684/Fax 501-683-7683

kxjames@ualr.edu

PROGRAM APPLICATION

Arkansas Advanced Initiative for Math and Science, Inc. (AR AIMS), a non-profit organization affiliated with the National Math and Science Initiative, invites schools to apply to become a part Arkansas AIMS program.  Arkansas AIMS is currently working with 38 high schools throughout the state and will add up to 6 new schools for Cohort 6.

AR AIMS Mission: To prepare more students for college success, post-secondary training, and STEM careers and to increase the number of students who graduate from college.

AR AIMS Goals:

1. To increase the number of students enrolled in Advanced Placement math, science, and English courses and to increase the number of students producing scores of 3 or better on Advanced Placement math, science, and English exams.
2. To reduce the participation and performance gap in AP classes of African- American, Hispanic, and Caucasian students.
3. To help Arkansas high schools develop strong, successful AP programs.
4. To enhance and augment Arkansas AP policies and initiatives.
5. To add new schools to the AR AIMS program each year until at least 85% of all high schools are participating in the AR AIMS program.
6. To provide AR AIMS services to every high school in Arkansas that wishes to strengthen its AP program.
7. To increase the number of students prepared to enter STEM majors in college or STEM-related training or occupations.

AR AIMS Facts:

In 2013 AR AIMS schools accounted for:

• 14.4% of schools; 43% of AP MSE Exam Qualifying Scores from schools reporting MSE.
• 49% of AP MSE Exams taken by African American and Hispanic students.
• 56% of AP MSE Exam Qualifying Scores by African American and Hispanic students.
• 42% of AP Math & Science exams taken.
• 48% of AP Math & Science Qualifying Scores.
• 48% of AP Math & Science exams taken by African American and Hispanic students.
• 62% of AP Math & Science Exam Qualifying Scores by African American and Hispanic students.

AR AIMS Will:

1. Provide the high quality professional development for Pre-AP and AP math, science, and English teachers

A. Access for Laying the Foundation training (potential cost to school).

B. 2-day content specific professional development for teachers in the fall (cost to school).

C. Provide Mock Readings professional development days (cost to school).

2. Provide electronic materials and resources

3. Provide personal visits and communication with content experts in the school (up to 4 personal visits per year with additional days as needed at a cost per visit) and through unlimited access online.

4. Provide assistance in providing the Saturday Student Study sessions for students, including the new option for online sessions in each of the subject areas (at a potential minimal charge to districts).

While the AR AIMS program has provided teacher and student cash incentives for scores of 3 or better on AP exams in the past, beginning for schools added in 2013, this will NOT be an automatic part of the program.  AR AIMS will work with districts to help find incentive funds if the districts choose to offer cash incentives.

School administration will be expected to provide necessary funding for facilities, equipment, scheduling considerations, logistical assistance, and coordination of student advising to help ensure the success of the program. To join AR AR AIMS in each of the 3 content areas, there is a cost to the district of $2000 per content area.   Districts may choose to do the whole program or parts of the program. 

The Application:

Completed applications should be submitted by March 31, 2014.  School visits will be scheduled as applications are received and processed. A site visit includes a day visit with Arkansas AIMS Administration and Content Directors who will visit with school personnel and make classroom visits. At the end of the day, the district and school administration and teachers discuss the visit and potential plans for the partnership.

This application includes:

• Signature page
• Applicant Information
• AP Teacher Section.  (To be completed by each AP teacher)
• School and district section.  (To be completed by principal, AP coordinator, or other admin)
• Statement of Interest
• Submission information