We are pleased to share with you the 1998-99 annual report of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy. IMSA\u27s 13th year was characterized by the development of a comprehensive Business Plan to enable IMSA to achieve its vision of the future. The Business Plan targeted seven areas (Strategic Initiatives) for focused attention, development and growth. These were:
For IMSA students,
* Student Research and Inquiry
• Student Leadership Development
• Learning Standards and Assessment System
• Great Minds Program
For Illinois teachers and policymakers,
• Professional Development Programs
• Products (such as the Internet Toolkit)
• Public Policy Initiatives
• Great Minds Program
Embedded in the Strategic Initiatives was Online Learning (Learning-at-a-Distance).
The Strategic Initiatives and other important work at IMSA are designed to help us achieve two ambitious goals:
• By the year 2003, IMSA will be a recognized exemplar and a national leader in mathematics and science teaching and learning.
• By the year 2006, IMSA will be a recognized pioneer and architect in the design of a new system of learning that is inquiry-based, problem-centered and integrative and that enables learners to acquire, generate and use knowledge for the world.
Excerpt: From the Chair and the Presiden
