Beginning in 1999, the Vermont Mathematics Coalition has sponsored the Vermont Mathematics Initiative. This is a comprehensive, innovative, and highly content-intensive mathematics teacher professional development program designed to ensure high quality mathematics instruction and high levels of mathematics learning in elementary schools across the state of Vermont.
The VMI originated through the combined efforts of Ken Gross (UVM Professor of Mathematics and Education, and Director of the VMI), Bud Meyers (current Vermont Deputy Commissioner of Education), and Marge Petit (former Vermont Deputy Commissioner of Education). For elementary teachers the new standards in mathematics require more extensive mathematics knowledge than in the past, often exceeding what those teachers learned in their own college education. The VMI is aimed at helping teachers bridge this gap.
Upon completion of the three-year VMI program a teacher receives a masters degree in education from UVM with a specialty in K-16 mathematics. There are currently 106 teachers enrolled in the VMI, representing 77 schools across Vermont. After completion of the program, each VMI-trained teacher, working in concert with the school principal, will server his/her school in enhancing the teaching and learning of mathematics.
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