Forty-five area middle and high school math and science teachers recently participated in a three-day TI (Texas Instruments) training at Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton. The workshop was designed to help teachers integrate the TI-Nspire Navigator Systems effectively into classroom instruction, which helps students explore, understand and connect the principles of science, math, coding engineering design, and electronics. Each teacher received more than $7,000 in TI equipment. The trainings were conducted by Texas Instruments Specialists Mike Smith and Sandra Hocutt. In addition to the training, teachers are coached by TI Specialists throughout the current school year. The Specialists visit partner schools to provide guidance for teachers delivering math and science instruction using the technology.

The technology, training and coaching are provided by Eastern Oklahoma State College’s 2017 GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) grant. GEAR UP is a federal initiative to increase the number of low income students who enter and successfully transition into postsecondary education. Eastern is beginning its third year of the $17 million grant, serving students, teachers, parents, and administrators in 39 partner schools in Southeast Oklahoma.