December 18, 2015

TO: Mary Logothetides

Bryant Woods Elementary School
FROM: Amy Reese, Coordinator
Elementary Science
Jennifer Brown-Whale, Resource Teacher
Elementary Science
RE: Completion of “Understanding Your Role in the Next Generation STEM Ecosystem:
A Book Study of A Framework for K-12 Science Education”

We would like to extend our deepest appreciation for your valuable contributions during the Fall
2015 session of our K-12 science book study course. We applaud your initiative in taking advantage
of an opportunity to grow and develop professionally1, enhancing your content knowledge and
pedagogical skill. Providing your reflections and discussions about each of the three dimensions of
the Framework, as well as incorporating all that you had learned into a final lesson presentation2,
was no small task! Your efforts reflect innovative thinking and an enthusiasm for science education.
Now that you have completed this course, and have a more comprehensive understanding and
appreciation for the Framework and Next Generation Science Standards, you will be an invaluable
resource to your school community3 as the Elementary Science Office continues to transition to the
next generation of science curriculum for HCPSS. Your participation in the course has
demonstrated a dedication to your profession4, as well as to ensuring engaging and rigorous
instruction for every student5. You are a critical component in maintaining our school system’s
reputation as a leader in Elementary Science and STEM instruction.
We would be grateful for your continued involvement in our effort to infuse the three dimensions of
the Framework, STEM, and Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards into our science
curriculum. We would most certainly welcome the opportunity to work with you again!
Thank you for your commitment to quality science and engineering instruction, as well as your
dedication to the art of teaching, and to our elementary students of Howard County!

1
Danielson, The Framework for Teaching: Domain 4, Professional Responsibilities, Component E, Growing and Developing Professionally
2
Danielson, The Framework for Teaching: Domain 1, Planning and Preparation, Component A, Demonstrating Knowledge of Content and Pedagogy
3
Danielson, The Framework for Teaching: Domain 4, Professional Responsibilities, Component D, Participating in a Professional Community
4
Danielson, The Framework for Teaching: Domain 4, Professional Responsibilities, Component F, Showing Professionalism
5
HCPSS Vision 2018: Goal 1