I am extremely pleased with the recent establishment of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) Field Office in Belleville. This facility will serve as an epicenter of educator networking, strategic partnerships, and advanced training in math and science.

IMSA is a teaching and learning facility to improve education through research, groundbreaking ventures, and an advanced teaching curriculum. It targets academically talented high school students from all over Illinois who are interested in math, science, technology and engineering. These individuals are admitted into its advanced residential college prepatory program that cultivates their aptitudes and prepares them for future employment in these fields of study.

Throughout my legislative tenure, improving education in our state has been a top priority for me. The new addition of this facility will greatly aid in this endeavor.

The Field Office is responsible for coordinating programs with local schools and businesses to aid both educators and students on the value of math and sciences and how they can be applied in the business world. Building off of the success of the Chicago area Field Office constructed earlier this spring, the metro-east program has already implemented successful exchanges with Southern Illinois University and Boeing in St. Louis.

These types of programs allow students to focus their discipline of study and give them direct access into the working world. Teachers serving the metro-east region are provided with advanced instruction to enhance their abilities to challenge students’ curiosity and drive to learn. Students benefit from year-round specialized programs designed to stimulate and hone their skills in math and science. So far this year, IMSA programs in the metro-east region have accommodated 210 educators and over 500 students. With the addition of the Belleville office, IMSA expects to enroll an additional 75 educators and 100 students by the end of the year. The Belleville office will serve students and teachers in Jersey, Macoupin, Madison and St. Clair counties.

As our communities continue to attract quality teachers and cultivate driven students, it is imperative that we are providing an environment for them to grow and learn. I am confident that the new Field Office in Belleville will accomplish this task. Emphasizing the importance of education is our responsibility as legislators, parents, and citizens of this nation. Investing in the future of our children is an investment in the future of our country. As these students go on to become professionals and leaders in their respective industries, we will be proud to say that we did our part to provide them with the necessary tools for a quality education - tools like the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.