| Mr. Donald Wahlers District Supervisor Curriculum & Instruction Mathematics & Science 609-538-9800 x3148 |  |
Mr. Donald Wahlers joined Ewing Public Schools as a high school teacher of Science in September 1994. He taught Biology, Chemistry and Physics to 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grade students at Ewing High School until September 2004, at which time he began working with elementary, middle, and high school teachers as the District Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction for Science. In September of 2006 he expanded his work in Curriculum and Instruction with kindergarten through twelfth grade teachers of mathematics. Mr. Wahlers earned his Bachelors Degrees in Biology (with a specialization in Molecular and Cellular Biology) and Biology Education from Penn State University. Further undergraduate and graduate work at Temple University resulted in additional teaching certifications in the physical sciences. A Masters Degree in Educational Administration was earned through Rider University.
As the Mathematics and Science Supervisor, Mr. Wahlers works with the kindergarten through twelfth grade teachers of mathematics and science to meet the needs of Ewing Public Schools' students. He helps teachers to implement the State content standards as well as Ewing Public Schools Mathematics and Science curriculum. He meets with professionals in other districts, post-secondary institutions, and outside organizations to stay informed about best practices in mathematics and science instruction. He plans professional development for teachers and building administrators in the areas of mathematics and science. He also works with teachers to obtain the materials and resources needed to provide a strong mathematics and science program for students, helps teachers understand the requirements and issues related to the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.
A number of interesting and exciting things are happening in mathematics and science. Here are just a few of the wonderful experiences that occurred this summer:
- A District Strategic Planning Committee focusing on improving mathematics education in Ewing Public Schools was founded. This committee composed of teachers, administrators, and parents from our five elementary, middle and high schools developed an action plan to be implemented over three years. The goal of the plan is to help ensure that all of our students are successful in mathematics. This plan, which was adopted by the Ewing Board of Education is currently being implemented. To view the BOE Presentation of this plan go to: http://www.ewing.k12.nj.us/2109101128533460/lib/2109101128533460/Math_report_BOE_presentation_6-21-10.ppt
- A three year transition process from the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards to the new Common Core State Standards
- Ewing Public Schools teachers in mathematics attended several professional development experiences. Teachers attending these experiences work at turnkeying this training to their fellow teachers as well as implementing the practices learned in their teaching. Some of these experiences include:
The Penn Summer Science Academy. (PSSA) an intensive one month non-credit program for strong ascending high school juniors and seniors come from all over the country and world. The object is to give interested students access to the resources of a major research university to pursue their interest in physics. Students attend classes, conduct lab investigations, and experience field trips.
Princeton University Preparatory Program (PUPP). PUPP is a rigorous, academic and cultural enrichment program that supports high-achieving, low-income high school students from local districts. This multi-year, tuition-free program prepares participants for admission to and ongoing success within selective colleges and universities.
Academies Creating Teacher Scientists (ACTS) researching topics that deal specifically with STEM, helping to increase content knowledge and leadership skills.
- Connect-Ed/Quest where teachers delve into inquiry based content exploration and enrichment investigating the deep connections between science content areas and mathematics.
- National Council of Teacher of Mathematics conferences where teachers explore ways to more effectively help all students become mathematical thinkers proficient in their math skills and their applications
Ewing Public School's Math Vision
Ewing Public Schools will deliver an instructional program in mathematics where students are actively engaged in the discovery of math concepts and are applying these concepts in ways that they find meaningful and relevant.
Ewing students will be mathematical thinkers who can reason, communicate and solve problems.
Ultimately, Ewing students will master and will be able to utilize these math concepts and skills throughout their lives.
Ewing Public School's Science Vision
Ewing Public Schools will deliver an instructional program in science where students are actively engaged in the discovery of science concepts and are applying these concepts in ways that they find meaningful and relevant.
Ewing students will be scientifically literate thinkers who can reason, communicate and solve problems in today’s increasingly technological world.
Ultimately, Ewing students will assume their roles as concerned citizens capable of making informed and well reasoned scientific decisions in their global society.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics
The New Jersey Department of Education has adopted the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. These standards adopted this summer comprise a paradigm shift based upon the latest best practices research in mathematics education. Ewing Public Schools has been and continues to work hard to revise its mathematical program to align with what the research describes as the best practices for all students to become successful in mathematics. You can access the new CCSS website, where you can navigate the new Standards in Mathematics by connecting to: http://www.corestandards.org/the-standards/mathematics
Core Curriculum Content Standards for Science
Currently the National Common Core State Standards Initiative is working on finalizing the Science Standards. This change will require curricular changes in New Jersey public schools. Ewing Public Schools has been preparing for and will be ready to revise the curriculum to align to the change in standards when released. In the meantime, you can access the current New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards in Science by connecting to: http://www.njcccs.org/ContentAreaTabularView.aspx?code=5&Desc=Science
My Current Favorite Websites
Elementary Math: http://investigations.terc.edu/library/Games_index.cfm - from here kids can play grade aligned games online (some of which they are familiar with from the classroom), link to other fun and exciting resources and sites for online math adventure, or link to a site where you can find all kinds of math games and activities that can be done offline; explore and enjoy!
Math: http://nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/vlibrary.html - Ignore the buttons about buying or free trials. just click on the box in the picture which aligns with your interest and grade level, explore and enjoy!
