Advancement of Mathematics

Chippewa Secondary School math teacher, Jim O’Connor, has been awarded the prestigious Descartes Medal for raising the level of mathematics education at Chippewa.

O’Connor will be presented with the award during the annual René Descartes Society’s annual dinner at the University of Waterloo June 10th, 2006.

Full details contained in the release below.

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The René Descartes Foundation for the Advancement of Mathematics, of the Faculty of Mathematics at University of Waterloo, has honoured Chippewa math teacher, Mr. Jim O’Connor with a Descartes Medal for in recognition of his work in raising the level of mathematics education in Ontario. Mr. O’Connor will be presented with the award on June 10th, 2006 at the René Descartes Society’s annual dinner at the University of Waterloo.

The Foundation supports the René Descartes Society, created to recognise individuals who have made a significant contribution to mathematics education. The Foundation recognises persons in Ontario who have established a record of excellence in teaching and who have also made major contributions beyond the classroom, by admitting them to lifetime membership in the Society.

Jim O’Connor is very dedicated to the development of mathematical thinking by students. Beyond spending a large portion of his time preparing lessons for his classes, he has spent years developing a math workbook for students, has been involved in University of Waterloo Mathematics contents and EQAO mathematics assessments. In addition, he has presented at the Ontario Association for Mathematics Educators.

“Mr. Connor is an exemplary professional educator,” said Colin Vickers, Director of Education. The Near North District School Board is grateful to have Jim O’Connor, and colleagues like him, in its employ.

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