The Exxon Foundation funded a proposal submitted by a joint committee of NCTM and AMTE leaders which addressed the problem that one of the key players in mathematics education reform said "... has all but been left out of the discussions."
With the foundation's funding, a conference was developed for thirty leaders in mathematics, mathematics education, and education. Two and a half days long, the conference was devoted to deciding how to best provide for the mathematics education of both preservice and inservice teachers. The planning committee included Joan Ferrini-Mundy, Judith Jacobs, Henry Kepner, Mary Lindquist, and Jack Price, and the conference was hosted by the Center for Education and Equity in Mathematics, Science, and Technology, at the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
After presentations that addressed the general state of mathematics teacher education (Joan Ferrini-Mundy), The Professional Standards Five Years Later (Glenda Lappan), Who's Heard of the Call for Change (Jim Leitzel), Diversity Issues in Mathematics Teacher Education (Joanne Rossi Becker), and Technology in Mathematics Teacher Education (Steve Rasmussen), the participants were divided into working groups and discussed major issues related to mathematics teacher education and the roles that professional associations can and should play in advancing the state of our profession. What emerged from this meeting was a clear charge to AMTE that we should be providing the leadership that is sorely needed.
Methods that the NCTM, AMTE, and COMET can work together to reach those involved in preparing and providing staff development were discussed. Additionally, the participants determined the need for joint publications, including, but not limited to, the proceedings of the conference and a periodical on mathematics teacher education.
As a result of this meeting, AMTE's efforts toward a presence at professional conference will be emphasized in the coming year.
The proceedings of the conference should be ready this summer and will be available on the AMTE's web site.
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