May 20,2004

Troy University project seeks to improve writing skills of elementary students

Troy University's   College of Education recently invited area teachers to form “A Community of Writers,” as part of an effort to improve the writing skills of elementary school students.

The project, which began in January and will run through May 2005, is funded by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education and the Federal Government's “No Child Left Behind Act.” As a part of the project, teachers participate in writing activities and examine how they can use community resources as a stimulus for writing activities for their students.

The process also includes showing teachers new study methods for their students, how to plan and make presentations to their classes and to other teachers and how to use available technology to enhance their teaching of writing and communication skills.

Participating teachers:
Banks Primary: Janice Brady, Alithia Gunter, Michelle Taylor, Mary DuBose and Karen Smith.
Banks Junior High: Kristie Outlaw and Von Brantley.
Pike County Elementary: Nikki Allen, Dawn Key, Beth Lees, Alberta Miles, Amanda Rascoe.
Troy Elementary: Cindy Miller, Jennifer Dunn, Tracey Thomas, Joanna Taylor and Marianne Gilbert.
Abbeville Elementary: Tonya Conner, Jo Hobkins, Julie Martin.
Headland Elementary: Kellie German, Dana Griggs, Nancy Bleich.
Ozark Elementary: Donna Culp, Michelle Kelley, Renae Ward, Emily McDonald, Doris Fenn .
Straughn School : Rhonda Hattaway and Cassandra Scott.