Citadel understands the importance of mathematics and how understanding can prepare students for college and career success.
In partnership with Zucker Family School at the Citadel of ANDeducation, the college is providing selected algebra 2 teachers in rural high schools with a $ 2,000 grant.
High school teachers are encouraged to apply for the opportunity for professional development by the January 31 deadline.
With a $ 100,000 grant from s.Ç. Higher Education Commission, the program created the Center for Mathematical Inquiry to provide professional development opportunities for 24 algebra 2 teachers across the state.
“One of the main areas of need in the state is assistance to fully involve high school students who are studying algebra 2. At the moment, only about 70% of them in South Carolina pass the course,” said Evan Ortlieb, dean ZFSOE and project director of the center.
Mathematics remains a subject that needs to be improved in schools in South Carolina, which are among the lowest in the country by organizations like US News & World Report and the National Education Association.
Algebra 2 teachers selected from school districts will participate in virtual professional development workshops and webinar series. They will also learn best practices, as well as new ways to teach the course.
Additional programs, such as free monthly webinars, will be provided to anyone interested.
The center is a joint effort involving the ZFSOE’s STEM Center of Excellence, led by Jennifer Albert, and Swain School of Mathematics and Science professor Richard Robinson.
Of the 24 places, 10 are reserved for teachers in the Georgetown County School District.
“Algebra 2 is a very important course to help students prepare for college and career,” said Georgetown County School Superintendent Keith Price. “By engaging in this opportunity, not only will our teachers have the opportunity to study, plan, collaborate and implement research-based best practices, but our students will also see greater potential for success in this rigorous course, as well as in subsequent courses to follow . “