Welcome! 

It’s a pleasure to welcome each of you to my first post in Amy’s Corner. It is important to me that we have a chance to stay connected to one another beyond the time we share together at the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy. 

As this year’s Academy draws near and with the launch of the new Web site, Phil and I are constantly reminded of the reasons we became advocates for math and science education – our three amazing children. 

A few years ago, we gave our daughter, Amanda, the opportunity to choose what summer camp she wanted to attend. There were so many options for her to choose from, and she decided on science camp. At the time, we had no idea how this decision would impact our lives. 

She ended up being the only girl at the entire camp, and had the time of her life! As a parent, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the smiles on our children’s faces as they are completely fascinated by something as simple as the ink from a squid. Phil and I knew we had to do our part to ensure teachers have the tools necessary to shape future leaders early in life. 

The purpose of the Academy is to ensure key subjects like math and science are taught through innovative methods that resonate in classrooms across the country. We want all students to share the same passion our children have for these subjects. 

As I look back over the last three years, I’m amazed at what the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy has accomplished. Phil and I started this program with ExxonMobil, Math Solutions and the National Science Teachers Association to give teachers like you access to new tools and resources and inspire you in math and science. What began as a one week-long Academy in Fairfax, VA has evolved to include local academies in Houston, TX and Baton Rouge, LA. And last year, we were honored to host U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings for an in-depth discussion about the state of math and science education in our schools. 

We hear such great stories from teachers across the nation. Over the last three years, you have shared your enthusiasm and knowledge and have become inspirations to us. The excitement that many of you bring to the Academy is contagious and spreading to classrooms nationwide, helping to improve our nation’s overall standing in the world. 

I am so proud of the hard work and creativity you add to your lessons. It is critical to engage and inspire students at an early age so that they want to learn more and more over the years. Math and science are two key areas that are oftentimes overlooked and under appreciated, but together we are changing that perception. 

We have a busy year ahead, and I’m looking forward to making this year an even better year. While we are on the road, I’ll check back and share stories our family experiences with math and science. Thank you for all the hard work and your commitment to educating our future leaders. We couldn’t do this without you! 

All the best,

Amy