Primarily Math, a UNL program designed to transform K–3 mathematics education in Nebraska, has received a $53,700 grant award from Women Investing in Nebraska.
The program is an initiative of the Center for Science, Mathematics and Computer Education, the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education. The university will use the funding to offer the Primarily Math program, which started with the National Science Foundation grant NebraskaMATH in 2009, to even more high-need school districts across the state. It helps teachers with their own knowledge of mathematics and improves the teaching of mathematics in primary school grades.
“Receiving this award is an honor because it provides us with the opportunity to continue to work with a group of outstanding individuals: the teachers charged with educating Nebraska’s children,” said Michelle Homp, research assistant professor with the UNL Center for Science, Mathematics and Computer Education. “We believe that no endeavor is more worthy, and we’re very grateful to Women Investing in Nebraska.”
Primarily Math will provide current K-3 elementary teachers with an innovative, professional development program containing 18 graduate credits, which will lead them to a K–3 Mathematics Specialist Certificate from UNL. The program is specifically designed to strengthen teachers’ own knowledge of mathematics and the teaching of mathematics, so they are best prepared to increase the mathematics achievement of their students.
Primarily Math will begin assembling a cohort in 2016. The WIN grant will be used to partially fund tuition for accepted teachers.
“Women Investing in Nebraska’s investment in Primarily Math means more elementary school students will receive great mathematics education in their classrooms,” said Lisa Smith, chair of the Women Investing in Nebraska executive committee. “It’s incredible to know how important this will be for Nebraska’s teachers and their students.”
Women Investing in Nebraska provides philanthropic support to Nebraska nonprofit groups that address critical community needs or make a significant impact in Nebraska. Established in 2011 by the University of Nebraska Foundation, it strives to engage, educate and empower women to become involved in philanthropy. Members include women of all ages and backgrounds from across the state and beyond who are passionate about Nebraska philanthropy.
Members of WIN make an annual gift, and all members then vote to grant 50 percent of their combined contributions to a Nebraska nonprofit organization and 50 percent to a University of Nebraska organization or group.
To learn more about Women Investing in Nebraska visit womeninvestinginnebraska.org or contact Director Sarah Carlson at 402-502-4113 or sarah.carlson@nufoundation.org.
