Trenton Partnership

Since 1990, PPPL and the Trenton Public Schools have had a partnership to provide a framework for systemic reform in math, science, and technology education in the district. A key objective of the partnership is to expand teachers' knowledge of science and math concepts, and to assist them in presenting material in a way that engages students. Through this partnership, the Department of Energy supports: scientists and engineers who serve as science advisors in the schools, classroom visits by scientists and engineers, and laboratory research experiences for students and teachers.

PPPL staff worked with Trenton teachers, and the Trenton Science Supervisor to rewrite the K-12 science curriculum. The new curriculum emphasizes the exploration of questions and finding solutions to problems through hands-on activities, rather than textbook memorization. In addition to providing technical assistance in implementing the new curriculum, PPPL sponsors teacher enhancement workshops and institutes during the summer and throughout the school year.