The new Blue Water Math and Science Council, sponsored by SC4, will provide regular opportunities for professional development among math and science teachers in St. Clair County.

Invited to these meetings will be math, science and technology faculty from SC4, and middle school and high school math and science teachers. K-8 teachers who want to improve their teaching of math and science topics also are welcome to attend. 

Plans for the council:
The council will hold dinner meetings in late October and late March of each year. These meetings will consist of presentations by invited speakers, demonstrations by veteran teachers, make-and-take workshop activities, promotional activities by appropriate vendors, and other activities attendees feel may be useful in improving their teaching effectiveness and the learning of their students.

Specific 2011 goals:
The inaugural meeting, a conference about math and science kindergarten to college collaboration, was held in late March. In late October, the council will have a second conference and provide a program reflecting the needs and interests identified at the March conference.

The goal is for the meetings to grow in participation and the organization to become self-supporting for one or two meetings each year. Efforts will be made to make continuing education units available for teachers who attend conferences.

Council history:
For nearly 20 years, the Blue Water Math and Science Council gave math and science teachers an opportunity to get together, discuss and investigate issues in public education, elements of teaching excellence and new developments in educational technology. The council began in the 1980s, sponsored by what is now St. Clair County Regional Educational Service Agency. It attracted participants from all over the county and presenters from local, state and commercial organizations.

Joining the council:
For more information, contact H.C. Snyder at (810) 989-5658.