Rural Systemic Initiative

Rural Systemic Initiative (RSI) is a systemic reform effort to improve science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in rural and economically disadvantaged regions of the US. The National Science Foundation (NSF) under the Division of Educational System Reform (ESR) established RSI in 1994.

NSF currently funds 26 RSI projects nationwide, each serving as a catalyst for systemic reform in their region. Systemic reform requires a holistic effort engaging the entire community, not must the education community. For example, parent/community involvement and support are equally important in making improvements in the “system”. Improving the way education is delivered isn’t the sole remedy to improve learning, but other modifications could be made such as in policies, budgeting funds, infrastructure, and qualifications of teachers. NSF recognizes the need to improve the manner in which STEM education is delivered systemically.

Blackfeet Community College Rural Systemic Initiative (BCC-RSI) project focuses specifically on the educational needs, resources, and long-term goals of target communities in “Blackfeet Country”. The project is currently partnered with 12 of the 15 public and private schools, servicing over 90% of K-14 students, teachers, and administrators throughout the Blackfeet Nation. The ultimate accomplishment of BCC-RSI will be to develop and sustain a technologically competent workforce that has mastered the principles of science, mathematics, and technology in the context of the Blackfeet culture to meet the demands of tomorrow.

Staff:

Coordinator	Helen Augare	helen_augare@bfcc.org
Administrative Assistant	Melissa LittlePlume	melissa@bfcc.org

Current Activities

In-Depth Investigation of Pond Organisms

A presentation to follow-up an Inquiry Training from last fall; it will go more in–depth on some of the information from last time. Even if you couldn’t make the first workshop, you are welcome to come and join us at this one. Click on the links below for more information about this presentation.

Informational flyer

Registration form