Teachers preparing students for a global economy are thinking small, really small. The worldwide growth of nanotechnology — the engineering that produces the design and manufacture of tiny electronic circuits — emphasizes the importance of engaging students in math and science.

To help teachers understand how, for example, solar cells work or how diodes transmit energy, NYSUT sponsored a nanotechnology workshop this summer that partnered educators with nanotech industry leaders.

"I really enjoyed the training, and I always bring things I've learned into the lectures for my students," said Pamela Rosi, a North Colonie Teachers Association member who teaches physics to juniors and seniors at Shaker High School in Latham. "There are so many things we did that we can incorporate into the classroom."

Rosi was one of 60 Capital District teachers who dedicated two days in July to attend "SEMI High Tech U Program for Teachers" at NYSUT headquarters in Latham. The program offered middle-level and high school educators a unique round of workshops and discussions with nano industry leaders that explored how teachers can best prepare students for math- and science-based careers options.

"This commitment to professional development and in strengthening our understanding of new scientific developments is typical of our members," said NYSUT Vice President Maria Neira, who oversaw the collaboration that created the training. "Their effort will ensure the students in their classrooms have the skills needed to succeed in emerging industries and meet the challenge of global competition."

Through its Capital District regional office, headed by Linda Stanczik, NYSUT collaborated with nano industry leaders such as the Air Products Foundation, General Electric, the SEMI Foundation and the Workforce Consortium for Emerging Technologies to produce the workshops.

GE led tours of its manufacturing facility in nearby Schenectady, conducted interactive lab sessions and had corporate officials discuss connections between the classroom and the workplace.

Acknowledging the key relationship between classroom professionals and emerging industries, Clifton Park's Ken Strube, a high school math teacher and Shenendehowa TA member, said, "Nanotechnology and the use of it is cutting edge, and it's here."

That theme was echoed by Lisa Anderson, a vice president of the SEMI Foundation, which promotes awareness of high-tech industries.

"The idea is to have industry people talking to teachers," she said. "We're exposing teachers to what their students could be and how to get there."

Rosi, who spent time in the military and as an engineer, is grateful the union has fostered this relationship. "NYSUT is a bridge between teachers and corporate America," she said.

The program "can help shape our state's economic viability," Neira said. "We will continue to grow this partnership among our members, higher education institutions and industry leaders."

Workshop participants will meet several times during the school year to examine more ways to bring these valuable lessons into their schools.

— Bernie Mulligan