January 30, 2002

Course integrates elements of science, math, technology

28 area sophomores attend new Sci-Ma-Tech program offered at Central High

By LISA PERKINS
Herald staff writer
       Science, math and technology are today, more than ever, an important part of a high school student's curriculum. That was the impetus behind the creation of Traverse City Public School's Sci-Ma-Tech program.
      The program, which was offered to tenth-grade students for the first time this school year, integrates science, math and technology into a challenging, individualized, hands-on experience. Sci-Ma-Tech has developed a rigorous three-year curriculum that allows students, through participation in innovative explorations and independent study, prepare themselves for success in post secondary education and beyond.
      Sci-Ma-Tech's plan to accomplish their purpose - to enrich the quality of science, math and technology education - includes offering:
      - Advanced Placement courses
      - Authentic scientific research projects
      - Opportunities to perform experiments independently with staff, professionals and experts in the community
      - Extensive college preparation, including site visits
      - Use of advanced measurement and multi-media technology
      - Emphasis on teamwork and communication skills
      - Exposure to current technology and applications within the fields of math and science
      - Mentoring and research opportunities leading to possible publication in a scientific journal
      - Exposure to guest speakers from universities, government, business and industry
      "We are using technology that is right on the cutting edge, it is what is being used in universities. Not many high school students have that opportunity," said Dianne Walker, Sci-Ma-Tech program coordinator.
      Traverse City Area Public Schools have partnered with the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation to fund the program. Community support through grants and donations have made possible the purchase of lap top computers, Lab Pro electronic data collection devices, text books, lab equipment and funding for field trips and guest speakers. There is no cost to students who participate in the program.
      "This is not a cookie cutter class, the students are able to design their own labs. What's great is that all the kids are really interested in math and science," said chemistry teacher, Christy Vadeboncoeur.
      While all the students share an interest in science and math, they also agree that the program will give them a leg up when it comes to applying to college.
      "I wanted to do this to set my college application apart from others, this is hard work but it will pay dividends in the end," said Central High School student, Jared Conaway.
      Fellow Central tenth-grade student Lyndsey Hjelmstad agreed, adding, "I want to be a doctor, this is worth the extra effort."
      Admission to Sci-Ma-Tech is not based solely on academic achievement. Teacher recommendations, a personal interview and a written paper expressing interest are also contributing factors in admission.
      This school year twenty-eight sophomores attend a three-hour block of classes, Monday through Friday, at Central High School's campus in addition to a traditional schedule of classes. Sci-Ma-Tech expects to be open to tenth through 12th grade students by the fall of 2003. Students from Traverse City high schools as well as Suttons Bay, St. Francis and Kalkaska participate in the program.