IMSA Receives $500,000 Grant to Boost Statewide Programming
For Immediate Release, September 2002
For comment, contact Brenda Buschbacher at
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AURORA— The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) will offer expanded and enhanced professional development opportunities for Chicagoland teachers thanks to a $500,000 grant from the Aileen S. Andrew Foundation.
The Foundation awarded the grant to the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education on behalf of the Andrew Corporation and its employees. Specifically, the grant will enable IMSA to expand its Problem-based Learning Network and Bridges to Science Literacy Program for Chicagoland teachers. This will include onsite professional development workshops as well as expanded offsite support including an enhanced web presence and interactive listserv for educators.
"We are pleased to be able to support IMSA's innovative programs and services for Chicagoland teachers where many of our employees and their families live," said Robert Hord, Jr,, president of the Aileen S. Andrew Foundation in Orland Park, IL. "As a technology-based firm, we know that achievement in mathematics and science is critical to our nation's future," said Hord. "We are proud to join forces with IMSA in efforts to enhance professional development for Chicagoland teachers."
"We are profoundly grateful for the significant leadership investment in IMSA's mission and work from the Aileen S. Andrew Foundation," said IMSA Vice President for Advancement Catherine C. Veal.
Dr. Philip H. Francis, president of the IMSA Fund, added, "Excellence in mathematics and science education is key to our future economic development and quality of life. Investing in IMSA programs is a productive way for the private sector to help improve mathematics and science education."
Located in Aurora, IMSA is a learning enterprise that builds the capacity of students, teachers and policymakers to improve and transform mathematics and science teaching and learning. IMSA's residential educational program serves Illinois students (grades 10-12) talented in mathematics and science; its professional development Center serves schools, educational systems, teachers and students in Illinois and beyond.