Competent teachers are those able to effectively implement a standards-based, inquiry-centered mathematics or science curriculum. These teachers have a deep and rich understanding of research-based learning strategies. They develop experience with hands-on materials and activities, plan for effective instruction, and learn classroom strategies that promote student engagement. Additionally, they demonstrate a deep and rich understanding of relevant content in the subject they teach; be it science or mathematics.
The heart of our programs are designed to improve instruction in mathematics and science through Instructional Coaching (iCoaching).
The Mathematics and Science Coaching Initiative began in 2003 with thirty-three coaches supported by the SC Department of Education's Mathematics & Science Unit. During that school year, these K-5 coaches worked with 780 teachers, providing an average of sixty contact hours of coaching per teacher. Since that first cohort of coaches, the Regional Mathematics and Science Centers have trained and supported one-hundred and fifty school-based mathematics and science coaches who have worked with 3,500 teachers.
Beginning with the 2006-07 school year, South Carolina's Coalition for Mathematics and Science, began the iCoaching Initiative which trains and supports coaches at the middle school level. Our first cohort of 15 coaches is now actively working to improve instruction in science and mathematics. Data indicates that students whose teachers have received coaching perform better on PACT than similar students whose teachers have not had the benefit of coaching.
SCCMS seeks to expand the availability of coaches in South Carolina schools and to promote our state's expertise with coaching to a national audience of professional developers. SCCMS also facilitates the exploration of professional development pathways complementary to coaching.