Mankato-area Teacher Center launched
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: |
Contact: Randy Wanke |
MANKATO-AREA TEACHER CENTER LAUNCHED TO
IMPROVE MATH AND SCIENCE INSTRUCTION
Roseville – Improving mathematics and science instruction and learning will be the focus of the new Math and Science Teacher Center in Mankato. Minnesota Department of Education Deputy Commissioner Chas Anderson today joined local educators to launch the Mankato-area Teacher Center, a part of the Minnesota Math and Science Teacher Academy which consists of nine Teacher Centers throughout the state.
“After parents, teachers have the biggest impact on student success,” said Deputy Commissioner Anderson. “Through the training at this Center, teachers will have the opportunity to hone their skills in order to help prepare their students for success after high school.”
The Teacher Center is training teams on how to effectively prepare students to meet the new mathematics standards requirements established in 2007. The Teacher Center developed a training module for middle school algebra (grade 6-8) and is developing a module for high school (grades 9-12) Algebra Connected to Number.
The Math and Science Teacher Academy is a result of Governor Pawlenty’s efforts to improve teacher effectiveness, especially in the areas of math and science. Initial funding of $3 million was approved during the 2007 legislative session and an additional $500,000 was made available through a grant from the National Governors Association.
“Teachers are very excited about the opportunity for sustained professional development and ongoing support from the Academy for their efforts in the classroom,” said Dr. Kathleen Foord, Minnesota State University-Mankato. “Participants will learn important mathematics concepts and strategies that will improve learning for all students. During the year-long opportunity, they will apply their learning to lessons in their classrooms and analyze the resulting student work and data to improve their teaching.”
Regional Teacher Center Information
Region 9: Minnesota State University-Mankato
Partners: South Central Cooperative Agency, Normandale Community College, Gustavus
Adolphus College, Science Museum of Minnesota
Contact: Dr. Kathleen Foord, 507-389-1607, kathleen.foord@mnsu.edu
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