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| Adding it all up... |
February 19, 2003 |
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The University of New Mexico’s Math and Science Teaching Academy is accepting applications from teachers interested in honing their skills in math and science. The deadline to apply for summer workshops (March 3, 2003) is quickly approaching, and interested teachers should call 277-6640 for an application.
New Mexico teachers who wish to participate in the Academy this Summer need to apply by March 3, 2003 and can obtain an application packet by calling 277-6640.
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The program is funded in part by federal Department of Education funding, pushed by Rep. Heather Wilson and approved by the U.S. House of Representatives last week. The Academy provides teacher development in mathematics, science content and educational technology support.
When enrolled in the program, teachers receive stipends, materials and supplies, and are provided with substitute teachers for the days during the school year when they work with and train other teachers.
UNM College of Education faculty, as well as scientists and engineers from laboratories and the private sector, serve as instructors and mentors in the program.
"The project is designed to provide high quality professional development for teachers in underrepresented groups who also work with children underrepresented in science and mathematics careers," said UNM Associate Professor Anne Madsen, director of the COE’s Department of Educational Specialties. She noted that teachers who have benefited from the Academy come from all over New Mexico, including Albuquerque, Gallup, Santa Fe, Taos, Los Lunas, and Belen.
 Adding it up: Suppose you have a list of numbers from zero to one hundred. How quickly can you add them all up without using a calculator (or your toes)?
At the conclusion of each Academy, all site groups present a plan for the coming year, including topics they will discuss in class and content they want included. For example, a fifth grade teacher from Jemez Day School decided to develop a science curricula using the clay, pottery and geology native to her local community. The teachers attend academies for two consecutive summers and also participate in diverse activities during the following two years.
The academy is statewide and features three training locations in the western, northern and central/southern parts of the state.
"This Academy has been a tremendous success, providing our teachers additional tools and knowledge so they can continue to spark our kids’ imaginations..."
--Heather Wilson
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Congresswoman Heather Wilson thinks professional development opportunities add up to great teachers and great schools and has consistently pushed for funding for the Academy. Wilson secured $1.1 million for the Academy for Fiscal Year 2001, $850,000 for 2002, and another $500,000 for the current year, enabling the Academy to continue its work with New Mexico teachers.
New Mexico teachers who wish to participate in the Academy this Summer need to apply by March 3, 2003 and can obtain an application packet by calling 277-6640. |
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