Hodge to emphasize “R” in DRS

This week, new FAMU Developmental Research School (DRS) Superintendent Patricia C. Hodge shared her vision for taking Baby Rattler education to the next level. One of her biggest priorities will be increasing research opportunities for FAMU faculty and FAMU DRS faculty.

According to the Sidney Martin Developmental Research School Act of 1991, “each lab school shall emphasize mathematics, science, computer science, and foreign languages. The primary goal of a lab school is to enhance instruction and research in such specialized subjects by using the resources available on a state university campus, while also providing an education in nonspecialized subjects.”

The act encourages university professors to work collaboratively with DRS faculty to accomplish those goals. There are numerous opportunities for FAMU DRS to develop closer partnerships with the university’s College of Education, College of Arts & Sciences, and College of Engineering.

“I am very excited about the opportunity,” said Hodge, a Pompano Beach native. “This school has a long history of educating African-American students and I am excited to be a part of that.”

Hodge added that she also wants to expand FAMU DRS’ participation in dual enrollment, increase advanced placement offerings, and add more early education programs for the school’s pre-K and elementary students.

Prior to serving as the principal for Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Schools, Hodge worked as the assistant principal for the school system. While working with Lloyd Estates Elementary School in Broward County, her major functions were administration, supervision, fiscal management, grant writing and parent and community involvement.

Under her leadership from 2002-2004, FAU Schools achieved an A school rating, achieved AYP annually and created the Targeted Assistance Program, which helped students who were having difficulties with their academics. She also supervised all expenditures, authored various competitive grants and served as the interim chair of transition for the School Advisory Board.