SCHOOLS: Mathematicians  Fukawa-Connelly and Boucher at Lawrence Academy

Lawrence Academy announces a public presentation by visiting mathematicians and educators Dr. Tim Fukawa-Connelly and Dr. Adam Boucher: "Exporting Creativity and Innovation from the Classroom to Reality and Un-reality," Thurs., Jan. 9, 7 p.m. in Richardson-Mees Performing Arts Center.

In a two-part presentation, professors will talk first about ways of thinking mathematically that go beyond arithmetic, algebra, and geometry; argue for primacy of these ways of thinking; and illustrate them in the K-12 setting. Second half of talk will explore how combining simple ideas can lead to complex phenomena which can unlock mysteries of the worlds around us - both real and fantasy.

Dr. Fukawa-Connelly, an assistant professor in School of Education at Drexel University, previously served as an assistant professor of Math. at University of NH, has also taught at Prospect Hill Academy in Cambridge, and Marshalltown Community College in Iowa.

Dr. Boucher is a lecturer in Math. and Statistics Dept. at University of NH.  He teaches courses in undergraduate and graduate-level applied mathematics that utilize inquiry and discovery-based learning paradigms to help students explore advanced math. 

As participants in the J. William Mees Visiting Scholar Program, the two mathematicians will spend dedicated time in classrooms with students over two days, in addition to providing a public lecture. An endowment that supports the program, established in 2010 by a longtime former faculty member for whom it is named, provides means for Lawrence Academy to bring such professionals to campus to offer students first-hand experiences in a variety of fields.

For more info about the visiting scholars or the program, email Asst. Head of School Rob Moore atrcmoore@lacademy.edu.