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| Math and Science Teachers get Knowledge Boost |
February 13, 2003 |
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Federal Budget Deal Includes $500k for UNM Academy
Albuquerque, NM - Congresswoman Heather Wilson today celebrated additional funding for a long-time project of hers: The University of New Mexico’s Math and Science Teaching Academy. The federal budget deal, approved by the House today, will include $500,000 in continued funding for the Academy, run by UNM’s College of Education.
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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Wilson, who says professional development opportunities add up to great teachers and great schools, has consistently pushed for funding for the Academy. The Academy provides high quality professional development for existing New Mexico teachers in math and science. Wilson secured $1.1 million for the Academy in 2000 and another $850,000 in 2001, enabling the Academy to continue its work with educators. Today’s announcement of continued federal funding, says Wilson, will make a big difference for students in New Mexico’s classrooms.
“Great teachers and involved parents make a difference,” says Wilson. “New Mexico has incredible people who are dedicated to education. This Academy has been a tremendous success, providing our teachers additional tools and knowledge so they can continue to spark our kids’ imaginations, especially in math and science.”
“This is great news,” says UNM’s College of Education Dean Viola E. Florez. “Congresswoman Heather Wilson is obviously a strong believer in our Academy and has been a consistent and solid partner in our efforts to give New Mexico’s teachers additional tools to do their jobs well. The Math and Science Academy has been possible because of Heather’s unyielding support.”
The U.S. Department of Education funding, approved by the U.S. House of Representatives tonight, will support teacher development in mathematics, science content and educational technology support.
The 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. The funding also supports project documentation, research and information dissemination.
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 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.
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.
Reporters seeking more information about the UNM Math and Science Teacher Academy, can call Dr. Anne Madsen at 505-277-6640.
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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