We are pleased to provide information about the YouthTouch Technology Integration System for elementary children that is sponsored by the Goldenrod Research Corporation. Listed below are a few facts about this grant initiative:

• The program focuses on developing children’s comprehension of ratios, estimating, coordinates, and graphing in addition to reinforcing other experiences in mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies concepts.

• The program provides hands-on experiences for children in grades 3–6.

• The resources are designed and packed to provide experiences for 100 children (25 per grade level); however, the children cannot work simultaneously with all of the resources.
• The children work in teams of 3 or 4 at each grade level.

• The program has been correlated to the Virginia Standards of Learning for mathematics.

• The hands-on resources are designed to supplement the classroom curriculum.

• The resources are primarily computer-driven hardware and software teaching tools that place emphasis on critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork.

• Initial and on-going YouthTouch training is provided to

• give teachers a working knowledge of robotics including hydraulic and pneumatic equipment; and
• show teachers how to incorporate YouthTouch activities into their curriculum to enhance the learning process.

• The estimated total cost of the program is $19,000. Goldenrod Research Corporation will award grants in the amount of $9,500 toward the purchase of the YouthTouch resources.

• Nationwide Goldenrod is prepared to award 150 grants this school year.
• The deadline for applications is November 20, 2001. Goldenrod will work with school divisions that have difficulty meeting the November 20 deadline.
• Goldenrod would like to award six grants in Virginia; however, the corporation is not constrained by a specific number in any state.

• Grant applicants must complete an application form and write a 100-word essay on why their school desires to receive the grant.

• Online information about the YouthTouch program can be obtained at: www.goldenrodresearch.com

For additional information about the YouthTouch program, contact Ms. Lea Melchior, President, Goldenrod Research Corporation, at (888) 827-2260 or send e-mail correspondence to: lea@goldenrodresearch.com. You may also contact George Willcox, specialist for technology education, at 804 225-2839 or gwillcox@pen.k12.va.us for additional information and assistance related to the YouthTouch program.

PIW/GW/ar