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Frequently Asked Questions
What does “SERVS” stand for?
“SERVS” stands for Support, Encouragement, and Resources Vital to Success.
What is the main focus of the SERVS Project?
The SERVS project was developed to deliver assistance to beginning teachers who are teaching in low performing schools and/or are teaching in a critical shortage subject area as defined by the State of Florida. The assistance to these teachers is intended to help with their retention. Participating teachers are supported to access continuing professional development opportunities such as college coursework.
What does a SERVS Educator do?
SERVS Educators provide assistance to teachers in specific areas such as grade level and/or subject matter expertise, use of technology, ESOL, classroom management, special education, differentiated instruction and reading. They are available during the day to provide coaching, on-site observations and feedback, over the phone encouragement, and modeling of good practice.
Who sponsors the SERVS project?
The SERVS Project was originally sponsored by the Florida Department of Education/ US Department of Education by Federal Flow-through dollars which were granted to the School District of Lee County. It has now expanded its funding base to include;
The Personnel Development Partnership at FGCU, a special project funded by the State of Florida, Department of Education, Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services, through federal assistance under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B and/or Part D, and Transition to Teach a US DOE initiative at FGCU College of Education.
How can I become a SERVS Educator?
Some of the requirements to become a SERVS Educator are Clinical Educator Certification, a Master’s Degree in Education, extensive experience in the classroom, and a desire to support beginning teachers. If you are interested in becoming a SERVS Educator, please click here to learn more .
How can I participate in the SERVS project as a teacher?
Current eligible participants include FGCU, COE Teacher Immersion Project (TIP) participants and beginning ESE teachers in participating districts. The SERVS program only provides assistance to beginning teachers (<3 years in the classroom or subject area). To determine if your district is participating please contact your ESE Director or Staff Development office in your school district of employment. If you meet the above requirements and would like more information about participating in the SERVS project as a teacher, please click here. If you would like more information about participating in the TIP program, please contact Susan Kohler at (239)590-7608 or skohler@fgcu.edu.
What grade levels are eligible?
Currently, SERVS Educators can provide one-on-one assistance to teachers in grades at the Elementary, Middle, and High School levels. To find a SERVS Educator in a particular grade level please select grade level as one of your search parameters. Click here to search the directory.
I am a beginning teacher who works in Hendry County. Can I request for a SERVS Educator come provide assistance in my classroom?
Yes, the SERVS is available to beginning ESE teachers and TIP participants in the five counties, Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, & Lee, surrounding Florida Gulf Coast University.
Is there a fee to receive SERVS Educator assistance?
No, there is not a fee to participate in the SERVS project.