Alabama Math, Science & Technology Initiative (AMSTI) celebrates ten years | News

For ten years, the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) has brought innovative and hands-on learning to teachers and students in Alabama. The initiative has greatly changed the way students view math and science. These subjects often go from those least liked by students to their favorites. With the excitement of AMSTI, students select more math and science courses during their educational career and choose courses that are more academically rigorous.

“This is a celebration for ten years of AMSTI as a successful program in Alabama’s schools, for all students who have received a higher quality of STEM education and for the teachers who have benefited from the advanced skills and teaching techniques offered through AMSTI”, said Dr. Tommy Bice, State Superintendent of Education.

The first AMSTI site began operation in June 2002 with a NASA grant to serve 20 schools that year. AMSTI has grown, with a presence in over 800 schools, with 687 official AMSTI Schools. AMSTI has received both national and international attention for its effectiveness in raising achievement scores and improving student interest in math and science. As the largest and most comprehensive math and science initiative in the nation, AMSTI has become the leading model for math and science education reform.

Steve Ricks, Director of AMSTI, said, “We are proud of the support provided for AMSTI by the Alabama legislature, Governor Bentley, the State Board of Education, and State Superintendent Dr. Bice, as well as by many educators and groups like AMSTEC. They recognize that regardless of the occupation chosen, math and science skills are essential for students to have a real chance of success in the workforce.”

In 2006, AMSTI was selected for one of the largest math and science studies, with approximately 30,000 students and 780 teachers in 82 schools. The study included an analysis of student achievement and teacher involvement. Findings showed statistically significant and meaningful student achievement in AMSTI Schools.

“The Alabama Mathematics, Science, Technology, and Engineering Coalition (AMSTEC) recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of the Alabama Department of Education’s AMSTI program over the past ten years in supporting teachers’ delivery and students’ learning of best-practice science and mathematics education. As a founding partner during AMSTI’s development, AMSTEC is pleased to host AMSTI’s Ten-Year Celebration: A Decade of Excellence tonight at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center,” said Brenda Terry, AMSTEC.

AMSTEC, as a statewide group of business and education leaders, believes that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are fundamental elements in the preparation of our next generation and that regardless of the occupation chosen, STEM knowledge and practices are increasingly essential for success in the workforce.

The ten year celebration event will be held tonight at the Davidson Center at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center from 6-8:30 p.m. Media is invited to the event.

Source:  State of Alabama Department of Education