IMSA Staff Member to Head State Science Teachers Association
For Immediate Release, April 2005
For comment, contact Brenda Buschbacher at
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Dr. Raymond J. Dagenais
AURORA—Dr. Raymond J. Dagenais, professional development specialist for the Excellence 2000+ program at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), recently was named President of the Illinois Science Teachers Association (ISTA).
Dagenais, an Aurora resident, will lead ISTA's membership which includes more than 2,000 Illinois science teachers, administrators, scientists, business representatives and others involved in science education. The association provides programs and services for science educators and serves as an advocate by keeping its members and the public informed about science education issues and trends.
Dagenais said goals he will work toward as ISTA President include: uncovering the talents and experiences of Illinois science teachers to improve science education; leveraging partnerships with other professional educational organizations; and identifying and promoting ways to make science education meaningful.
"Teachers are the single most important factor in the educational growth of children," said Dagenais. "ISTA is dedicated to promoting quality science teaching and providing professional growth opportunities for science teachers."
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® is an internationally-recognized pioneering educational institution created by the State of Illinois to develop talent and leadership in mathematics, science and technology. IMSA's advanced residential college preparatory program enrolls 650 academically talented Illinois students in grades 10-12. Nearly 18,000 teachers and 34,000 students in Illinois and beyond have benefited from The Center@IMSA program of professional development and student enrichment. Located in Aurora in the high-tech corridor west of Chicago, IMSA® serves the people of Illinois through innovative instructional programs, public and private partnerships, policy counsel, action research, and the leadership and achievements of its graduates.