This study of two successful first grade teachers examines the forces that guide their instructional decisions. Findings reveal the complexities of forces that influence the moment-to-moment decisions made by these teachers. Teachers repeatedly attempted to balance their desires to be student-centered while addressing state standards and…

This article reports a qualitative study of the reasons mothers chose to enroll their children in a Spanish/English two-way immersion (TWI) Program in Central Texas. Some of the mothers' reasons varied, and others overlap. All mothers expressed the belief that the program would provide their children with more opportunities, cognitive benefits,…

The goals of this practicum in science instruction for first grade students were to increase science instructional time, develop skills-appropriate instructional strategies, formulate relevant assessment methods, and promote positive attitudes. Grade level teachers met on six occasions to pinpoint science instructional deficiencies, formulate…

Growing Up Strong (GUS) is a curriculum designed to develop strong mental health in kindergarten through sixth grade students. This document contains a GUS teacher's guide for kindergarten and first-grade classrooms and masters of materials that can be sent home with children to promote family involvement in GUS. Part I of the four-part teacher's…