The Regional Math and Science Center (RMSC), located at C-1-120 Mackinac Hall on Grand Valley State Universitys Allendale Campus, serves students, teachers, parents, school districts, business and industry, and other organizations interested and involved in STEM education. In our technology-rich world, success in school, career, and life depends on our ability to apply the principles of mathematics, science, engineering, and technology to real-world situations. The Regional Math and Science Center at Grand Valley State University addresses these matters by providing a mosaic of mathematics and science services to our community.
Grand Valley has been serving the needs of area K-12 schools for several decades and, in 1994, established the RMSC. As part of the statewide Michigan Mathematics and Science Center Network, RMSC collaborates with the K-12 and higher education communities, informal science, governmental organizations, and business and industry to coordinate science and mathematics outreach activities in the West Michigan area. Some of our signature programs include Michigan Science Olympiad, Super Science Saturday, teacher professional learning opportunities, summer camps such as sHaPe, and the InterChange newsletter.
Our strategic plan for 2016-2021 is focused on providing a strong connection between GVSU and the K-12 community that is served by the Center. Within the University setting, the RMSC serves as a conduit for faculty and undergraduate student service connected to K-12 students and teachers and is the academic home of the Integrated Science Program. These services are often provided in conjunction with other units in the College of Liberal Arts and Science as well as in collaboration with other GVSU Colleges and offices (such as the Padnos College of Engineering and Computing, Allied Health Professions, and Office of Sustainability.)
Mission
To provide, promote, and coordinate leadership, programs, and services to inspire and nurture excellence for all in the teaching, learning, and application of science and mathematics including technology and engineering.
Vision
MATH AND SCIENCE: EXCITEMENT IN LEARNING FOR SUCCESS IN LIVING
" Excitement: the key to engaging and inspiring all generations toward -
" Learning: the means to acquiring the content and process knowledge of science, mathematics, technology and engineering are required for -
" Success in Living: as an informed and productive citizenry.
Value Statement
We believe:
1. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) literacy and power are for everyone.
2. The ability to understand and apply STEM disciplines is essential for informed decision making in personal, professional, community, national and international settings.
3. STEM disciplines are connected with each other and interconnected with other fields of study.
4. STEM disciplines are inherently interesting and, with appropriate pedagogy, students will respond with enthusiasm.
5. Cooperation and communication among institutions and agencies are essential for continuous improvement of learning.
6. K-12 education, higher education, business/industry, and community organizations are essential partners in improving STEM education.
7. Parents, guardians, and other caregivers are also integral partners in the education of children.
8. Collaborative work can make a measurable difference in the quality of STEM education.
9. All students should be encouraged to develop their talents in STEM to their fullest potential.
10. Excellence in STEM achievement should be recognized and rewarded for both students and teachers.
11. High quality teachers, effective leaders, and a safe, supportive environment are essential for the successful teaching and learning of STEM disciplines.
12. Learning is a life-long process.
Strategic Priorities, outcomes, and key objectives
Strategic Priority Area 1: Actively engage learners at all levels.
Outcome A: Grand Valley's learning environment is personal, challenging, and transformational, supporting excellent academic programs and co-curricular opportunities.
Outcome B: Grand Valley is diverse and inclusive.
Outcome C: Grand Valley has mutually beneficial relationships, partnerships, collaborations, and connections with local, state, national, and world communities.
Outcome D: Grand Valley supports innovative teaching, learning, integrative scholarly and creative activity, and the use of new technologies.
Strategic Priority Area 2: Further develop exceptional personnel.
Outcome B: Grand Valley is diverse and inclusive.
Outcome E: Grand Valley strategically allocates its fiscal, human, and other institutional resources.
Strategic Priority Area 3: Ensure the alignment of institutional structures and functions.
Outcome B: Grand Valley is diverse and inclusive.
Outcome C: Grand Valley has mutually beneficial relationships, partnerships, collaborations, and connections with local, state, national, and world communities.
Outcome E: Grand Valley strategically allocates its fiscal, human, and other institutional resources.
Strategic Priority Area 4: Enhance the institution's image and reputation.
Outcome A: Grand Valley's learning environment is personal, challenging, and transformational, supporting excellent academic programs and co-curricular opportunities.
Outcome B: Grand Valley is diverse and inclusive.
Outcome C: Grand Valley has mutually beneficial relationships, partnerships, collaborations, and connections with local, state, national, and world communities.
