The ITP program is structured to allow teachers to support existing curriculum while simply leveraging more powerful information-gathering and collaborative tools. Creating a new project from scratch can be time consuming and challenging. ITP staff encourages teachers to modify existing projects from successful teachers who have been involved in the program. We'll also work closely with teachers on how to coach students, how to work with mentors, and how develop high accountability. The success of the program is based on positive collaboration between teacher, mentor, and student.
Teachers notice a change in students involved in the program.
For some students, being in a mentor program has pulled them away from gang influences, gotten them more interested and involved in school, and started them talking about going to college. This program has had a profound effect on these students. This program, being an independent project, has helped them to become more responsible and resourceful. I think that seeing that their interests in computer programming, inventions, toucans, and frogs can lead to a career in the future has planted a seed in their minds. It's hard to find people in the industry with time in their busy schedules to share with students.