Lee County Schools Get Math Grant

Article found in The Smiths Station Good News
Thursday, October 30, 2003

The East Alabama partnership for the improvement of mathematics education also known as TEAM-Math (Transforming East Alabama Mathematics) was recently awarded a $9 million grant from the National Science Foundation to improve mathematics education in East Alabama.

TEAM-Math participants, along with state and local leaders, university representatives, and local educators attended a special reception to celebrate the grant on Friday morning, October 24 th. The event was held at Opelika Middle School. Dr. Gary Martin, associate professor in Auburn University’s College of Education and project director, proudly referred to the grant recipients as an “elite group” revealing that only seven out of 200 proposals were accepted. Dr. Martin recognized dignitaries and special guests including the core planning team members: Dr. Marilyn Strutchens, associate professor in Auburn University’s College of Education and project co-director, Dr. Chris Rodger, Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics, Dr. Steve Stuckwisch, Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics, Dr. Carolyn Gathright, Tuskegee University College of Liberal Arts, and Mr. John Painter, Lee County Schools Superintendent. Dr. Martin said, “At the heart of all of this is the school districts. Twelve districts have agreed to work together to achieve common goals. The grant is a testament to all the hard work people on the team have done, particularly Mr. Painter.” Dr. Martin also commended the teacher leaders – “the ones who will make it happen.”

Dr. Joe Morton, Deputy Superintendent for the State Department of Education, praised the collaborative effort. “On behalf of the State Department of Education, we are excited for you and the partners.” Dr. Morton offered congratulations to the universities, school districts, and private partners. He also encouraged involvement from the State Department of Education.

Dr. Marilyn Strutchens expressed excitement about the “new vision for math education.” She reported that the program is built on National Council of Teachers of Mathematics principles, the Alabama Course of Study: Mathematics, and best practices gained from research. Integral to the program are high expectations and support for all students along with an understanding of what students know and need to know. Assessment is an important instructional component. Technology and cooperative groups are also key elements. Content areas include algebra, statistics and probability, problem solving, connections to the real world, reasoning and proofs, and other mathematical concepts. Teachers will be facilitators of pedagogically sound instruction. Dr. Strutchens said, “It’s not what you teach, but how you teach it.”

Dr. Chris Rodger presented a sample TEAM-Math lesson. Through questioning, he guided the audience to understanding the result. Dr. Rodger also connected the lesson to other areas such as biology.

Dr. Steve Stuckwisch discussed the mission of Auburn University – research, instruction, and extension – and how it fits with TEAM-Math. He said that Auburn University will make changes to improve mathematics courses for teachers and expand teachers’ knowledge of mathematics. Dr. Stuckwisch reiterated that with the program being based on research and successful methods accomplished in other places, “We know it will work.” Dr. Stuckwisch proclaimed, “Other states will learn from Alabama.”

Dr. Carolyn Gathright spoke for Tuskegee University as she said, “We are pleased to be members of the TEAM-Math partnership.” She said that working collectively rather than individually will make a difference.

Superintendent John Painter spoke about the need for compassion in mathematics instruction. Painter said, “The program can not work unless teachers care and are able to build relationships.” He emphasized the “moral obligation to leave no child behind and continue to strive forward to create successful programs at a higher level.” Superintendent Painter commended team members for their commitment and work on the project. He spoke about choices and consequences as decisions have been made for the betterment of students. “The whole is greater than the sum of parts…. The effects will continue for a long time as we choose to be change agents,” said Superintendent Painter.

Following the reception, Michele Matin and Equvia Rhodes, TEAM-Math district leaders and Opelika Middle School teachers, opened their classroom for observation of the program.

The primary goal of TEAM-Math is to improve student achievement for kindergarten through twelfth grades, including narrowing achievement gaps. In addition, the project seeks to increase the supply of qualified teachers; develop mathematics teacher leadership; increase administrators’ understanding of mathematics goals and priorities; redesign the preparation of teachers; align district curriculum, instructional materials; and assessment practices; and improve parental and community understanding of mathematics education.

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