Mountain Iron-area Teacher Center launched
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: |
Contact: Randy Wanke |
MOUNTAIN IRON-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 Mountain Iron. Minnesota Department of Education Assistant Commissioner Karen Klinzing today joined local educators at Hibbing Community College to launch the Region 3 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 Assistant Commissioner Karen Klinzing. “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 Region 3 Teacher Center is training teams on how to effectively prepare students to meet the new mathematics standards requirements put in place in 2007. The Mountain Iron-based Teacher Center developed a training module for middle school algebra (grade 6-8) and is developing a second module titled Middle School Mathematics through Science, Technology and Engineering. About 70 teachers, administrators and curriculum specialists representing districts from across Northeast Minnesota are participating in the training.
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 from Northeastern Minnesota will be challenged to look at algebra ideas from many perspectives,” said Kathy Sterk, Director of School Improvement at the Northeast Service Cooperative.
“We are excited to lead their exploration of opportunities to integrate science and technology with mathematical concepts and ideas.”
Regional Teacher Center Information
Region 3: Northeast Service Cooperative – Mountain Iron
Partners: Hibbing Community College; University of Minnesota-Duluth
Contact: Kathy Sterk – 218-780-7854 – ksterk@nesc.k12.mn.us
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