Established in 1994, the Mathematics and Science Specialty Center is celebrating its 30 year anniversary, and many teachers are reminiscing over their incredible teaching experience in the program.
The Math and Science (Math/Sci) High School curriculum is constructed to enhance skills in self-directed learning, problem solving, and critical thinking. It is designed to immerse the students into the subjects they study through their “core” courses. In addition, as a program, Math/Sci was the first to be approved to be an AP Capstone Diploma high school in Chesterfield County. Students are presented with the opportunity to complete AP Seminar and AP Research to earn their AP Capstone Diploma, which provides them with a robust experience in cross-curricular research, project management, and independent study.
English teachers Gail Kline and Rhonda Clopton detail their involvement with the organization, noting how their time at Math/Sci has altered their perspective on teaching.
“Sometimes as teachers we can get stale in our curriculum and our approach to teaching, but [Math/Sci kids’] expectations are high because [they] have come here for a specialty center, so it sets my expectations of myself higher,” Kline said.
While Math/Sci classes are separated from the rest of the student population, the specialty center has become more interconnected with the rest of Clover Hill over the years. When Clover Hill was located on Hull Street, the specialty center was dissociated, and Math/Sci students were not involved in the same extracurricular activities as others.
“Math/Sci was known as the Renaissance school, and people knew that we were separate because it didn’t blend,” Klines said.
Although the Math/Sci experience has significantly influenced many students, the program has also transformed the careers of teachers and administrators.
“I don’t know that I would still be in teaching if I weren’t in Math/Sci,” said Clopton. “I feel like I learn just as much for my students as they learn from me, and the fascinating piece is just kind of giving them the toolbox and then watching what they build with it.”
Even though the name of the specialty center places emphasis on math and science, the administration has worked throughout the years to establish a well rounded program, focusing on liberal arts.
“When Mr. Henry came in and took over, he has really broadened what we are and what we do and he has really good ideas about having students become more involved,” said Clopton. “I think students actually have more of a voice now than they used to.”
Following high school, Math/Sci graduates have become leaders in every field including medicine, performance, law, engineering, art, business, and architecture. Since its establishment in 1994, the specialty center has left a profound impact on many, both students and teachers.
