NEWS

■ Mathematics Specialists - Information for participants beginning Summer 2006: more Info.

■ The Virginia Mathematics & Science Coalition regularly honors schools and educational organizations throughout the Commonwealth for effective strategies in enhancing math and/or science education through its "Programs that Work" award. On March 30, 2006, the Coalition formally recognized seven Mathematics Specialists and their respective school systems. To view the "Programs that Work" 2006 homepage, click the following link: Programs that Work 2006.

■ In Spring 2006, both houses of the Virginia Legislature passed a resolution commending Virginia school boards that employ mathematics specialists in order to increase student achievement by increasing the quality of mathematics instruction. The resolution, HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 258, was introduced by Speaker of the House of Delegates William Howell. To view HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 258, click the following link: HJR258.

■ Both houses of the Virginia Legislator have passed a resolution requesting the Virginia Board of Education to include the Mathematics Specialist endorsement in the Licensure Regulations for School Personnel. The resolution was introduced on behalf of the Virginia Mathematics and Science Coalition by Senator John Watkins. The full resolution is available here.

■ Mayor L. Douglas Wilder plans to use savings from budget cuts to hire more math specialists. Read the article here.

■ With support from the National Science Foundation, a Forum for Math Specialists and Their Principals was conducted at Virginia Commonwealth University on February 10, 2005 to help school principals prepare to make full use of Mathematics Specialists in their schools. During the Forum, reflections were shared by principals, teachers and Mathematics Specialists from schools with Mathematics Specialists. View the reflections.