IMSA360: Winter 2008

This issue of IMSA360 addresses an important theme – IMSA and its networks and partners are making an enduring impact on education. By bringing together the best minds from all walks of life and by combining our resources, we accelerate the delivery of innovative programs that make a difference in the lives of students and teachers throughout Illinois and beyond. In this issue, you will learn how IMSA and the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education, our 501(c)(3) not-for-profit entity, work with educational, business, government and entrepreneurial partners to develop, test and share innovative ways to enhance teacher skills and inspire children to excel in mathematics and science. For example, IMSA, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, iBIO and others are partnering on Illinois Innovation Talent, a pilot project designed to promote innovation-centered education and to increase student achievement in mathematics, science and technology. Through a partnership with the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign (UIUC), IMSA faculty and staff are developing and implementing an online professional development model for middle school mathematics and science teachers statewide with a federal grant through the Illinois Board of Higher Education. The UIUC partnership also includes joint research projects, student research opportunities and other initiatives. Excerpt: From the Presiden