Synergy looks at student achievement through the Urban Systemic Initiatives (USI) Program, launched in 1993 with modest planning grants. By the end of 1995, the K-12 systems of nine cities comprising the first cohort of competitively awarded projects had begun in tangible ways to deliver quality science and mathematics to their students. In the words of NSF's Assistant Director for Education and Human Resources, Luther Williams, "A city differs from a state in that it usually has a group that represents its leading businesses and industries... In the last 20 years, these groups have not been close to the school systems -- certainly not inner-city school systems. However, because they are motivated by their workforce needs, these groups have come to think of their cities' school systems as likely places to find potential employees. As a result, interest in their school systems has increased dramatically... The synergy is created when these efforts are guided by a program plan operated under the NSF proposal." If you are still incredulous, then read on. And on. We have many stories to tell.

Welcome to the new Synergy.

Student Achievement through USI

• Introduction
• Building a Record of Achievement
• Student Achievement
• Graduation requirements
• Availability of Science and Mathematics Instruction
• Partnerships and Funding
• Conclusion
• Around the Nation