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Benjamin Franklin Elementary School

Binghampton, NY
Grant: $33,610

The Franklin School was awarded the National Blue Ribbon of Excellence in Education in 1994 and was included in a list of Schools of Excellence in the May 1993 issue of Redbook Magazine.

Capitalizing on a partnership between this elementary school and Security Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, this pilot program was organized around the theme of " math, science and technology". A science lab, a weather station, a darkroom, an annual science festival, a garden and a science club motivate and encourage students and teachers to observe and study their world. An emphasis on character education promotes the teaching of universal values. Students use computers and technology (e.g. laser discs, electronic camera, video-microscopes) at every grade level.
Franklin school had several objectives: to establish a long-term partnership between the school and Security Mutual Life for extending mathematics instruction; to provide tutors in mathematics for individual students; and to emphasize projects for the science festival which involve mathematical concepts.

The program at Franklin School is another example of working with the "whole child" by directing adult attention to the children and providing role models. Students' homework and grades have shown measurable improvement. The students have participated in an annual science fair, and one program participant won first prize. This program has become self-sustaining.