FAQS


How can I help in the classroom?

There are many ways in which our TOPS Partners help in the classroom.  Our partners often lead students in inquiry-based activities that help them understand subject matter on a deeper level.  Partners also serve as science professionals to support teachers’ efforts in bringing science education to the classroom.  Listen to what TOPS Partners have to say.


How often will I be a guest in the classroom?

That is a decision that you will make with the classroom teacher & the site administrator.  Some Partners come once a week and stay for a few hours.  Some Partners come once a month and stay all day.  We understand that our Partners are retired so we work with your schedule.


Are there any resources available to me?

In addition to the website, Partners also have access to the GEMS kits and Math, Science & Beyond kits located at SJCOE, Office of Science & Special Projects.  Please see the Resources page for more details. 


What sort of training is provided?

We provide content and classroom management support for our Partners.  We host an annual Partners & Lead Teacher training centered around the ‘latest and greatest’ tools available to use in the classroom.  In addition, we provide our Partners strategies for classroom management techniques. 


How do I get involved?

You can contact Judi Wilson, Director, SJCOE, Office of Science & Special Projects or Connie Oliver, Regional Project Coordinator.


San Joaquin County Office of Education

Office of Science and Special Projects

P O Box 213030

Stockton, CA 95213-9030

Phone: 209-468-4880


Benefits


For the Partner...

Satisfaction and joy in knowing you are providing a strong educational foundation for tomorrow’s scientists & engineers.


For the Students...

Access to resources to help stimulate a curiosity & love of science.


For the Teacher...

Support to help deliver the best lessons possible in science.


For the School...

Positive community relations that last.

 
 

This is part two of the amazing Mentos Experiment.  You may ask yourself, how more amazing could it possibly get...Well, watch to find out.

 

The Domino Effect

Steve Spangler:  New Twist on an old experiment

Steve Spangler is committed to helping teachers deliver hands-on, minds-on science to their students.  He has made numerous television appearances and currently is the Science Education Specialist for KUSA-TV 9News in Colorado.  His website, Steve Spangler Science, is a valuable resource for educators.  In addition to science experiments and on-line videos, Steve also offers low-cost science supplies. 

Science Activity of the Month - Dry Ice

What student can not be engaged when the topic at hand is ‘dry ice’.  While the stuff is certainly available in any grocery store at an affordable price, it still holds a certain amount of mystery to students.  Use dry ice to study concepts such as states of matter, sublimation and properties of matter.  Make sure you also check out the safety section...