MATH, SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING IN EDUCATION

I want to prepare our pre-service teachers to meet the needs of all of their students and promote science, math and engineering. We must continue our outreach to neighboring school districts and work with them on projects to benefit our children. I'm also excited about the possibility of a Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning. Within this center will be the New Mexico Learning Collaborative that has the mission of "increasing mathematics and science achievement for all students through a collaboration of communities, industries, colleges and universities, and preK-12 schools centered around increased opportunities for student learning."

PROJECTS

I've been a part of many projects in the COE that promote science, math, and engineering. Although the New Mexico Collaborative for Excellence in Teacher Preparation (NM CETP) has concluded, may of our curriculum programs developed through the grant have sustained. We are better preparing our students to teach in the mathematics and sciences. The Southern New Mexico Science, Engineering, and Math Aerospace Academy (SNM SEMAA) brings students of all ages in the community to campus to learn about math and science through technology. Our instruction in the lab gives them a new perspective on these subjects and inspires them in countless ways. So far, we've had over 1200 first students participate in the academy. I've also worked closely with Lynn Middle School, Hewlett Packard, Intel, American Honda, Toyota USA, RGK Foundation and many others on projects that inspire kids in math, science and engineering. Some of this support includes supplies, money for instruction, and other opportunities for children of all ages.

FUTURE

I'm extremely excited to see a new O'Donnell Hall! We need more space in order to retain our quality programming and benefit pre and in-service teachers. I plan to continue working with other departments, foundations and organizations who share interests in the success of children. This is very important in order to find funding and spread the knowledge that we have to share.