GENERAL ACADEMY INFORMATION

The Academies are for public and private elementary, middle and high school mathematics, science and technology teachers from the state of Wisconsin.  Courses are designed for teachers who are inexperienced in the instruction of science, math and technology as well as the seasoned professional looking for new ideas.  They are located geographically around the state for convenient access so that all teachers have the opportunity to attend workshops.  An increased understanding of concepts presented through "hands-on", problem-solving, cooperative learning, application and demonstration activities encouraging integration of mathematics, science and technology education.  New, practical teaching strategies, ideas, curriculum, experiential learning and assessment are presented along with knowledge of new, simple inexpensive and  accessible materials and technology for classroom application.  Participants have many opportunities to share ideas with other teachers and to enhance their present teaching practices.  Attention is also given to the state and national standards where applicable.

Tuition and registration fees for participants may be paid by local school district staff development funds, business and industry sponsorships or individuals.  Similar sources of funding may be used too defray participants' lodging, travel and meal expenses.  Daily lunches and breaks are offered at each site.  Exact costs for tuition and registration are listed in the individual academy brochures, the 2007 Academy Workshop publication and here, within the individual academy web pages.

Graduate credit is offered at each of the Academy sites.  Teach site has one or more cooperating universities which will issue graduate credit.  All teachers are required to participate in the workshops, discussions and industrial tours for the entire week.  A designated Professor of Record is on site at each of the Academies..  Attendance is take each day including tour day for credit purposes.  Housing is available in each of the Academy sites at either a local hotel or university dormitory.

A majority of the Academy workshops are in session from Monday-Friday during their scheduled weeks.  A keynote speaker traditionally kicks off the week in most of the academies.  Teachers report to their workshops immediately after the keynote address on Monday morning; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday are full workshop days.  Wednesday is devoted to business and industry  which includes tours in the morning and discussions in the afternoon.  Each Academy workshop consists of at least 30 hours of instruction.