Overview
Based on the teaching model of the Bay Area Writing Project developed by the University of California at Berkeley, in 1974, the CSMP was launched as a network of nine projects authorized by California Statute in 1988. The primary purpose of the CSMP was to deepen teacher understanding of the K-12 subject matter content taught and to support content embedded instructional strategies that provide all students with access to a college-going curriculum.
During the past decade, the CSMP has continuously incorporated new research into all of its programs that increases success for EL and low literacy students. Since the No Child Left Behind Act (2001), the CSMP has supported the California Department of Education (CDE) in its efforts to meet teacher quality goals and has organized regional support to better assist its K-12 partners with whole school change efforts in low performing schools. Since the CSMP's authorization, the network has grown to close to 100 convenient sites across the state on campuses.
The CSMP provides classroom teachers with a variety of professional learning opportunities such as workshops, leadership institutes and in-service designed by teacher leaders and faculty content specialists to improve instruction for all learners. Participants engage in research and use research-based strategies to improve their practice in the teaching of reading, writing, literature, foreign language, mathematics, science, history, international studies, physical and health education, and the arts.
All programs infuse literacy strategies for improving the academic skills of EL, as well as providing instructional techniques to meet the needs of students with low skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and science.
In many cases, university credit can be obtained for participants pursuing teacher quality goals and working toward National Board Certification.