John Howe's statement about the value of being a Teacher-Participant:

Being a teacher-observer at the 2010 MathPath was an extraordinary experience for me. I have taught Middle School math students for over 35 years in Princeton, New Jersey. For the price of room and board for four weeks I got an incredible learning experience. I watched 91 bright, cheerful, enthusiastic and gifted children throw themselves into doing mathematics at a very high level.

As teacher-observer I felt completely welcomed by all involved in the camp. I was invited to participate in staff meetings, attend any and all break-out and plenary sessions, join camp outings and enjoy frequent interesting and open conversation with everyone involved. The staff's interest in sharing the experience of the camp was genuine and unconditional.

In particular, George Thomas, Steve Maurer, Al Lippert and Kip Thomas were all willing to take time in their busy day to make my experience worthwhile. Each was willing to share his experiences and insights into the educational purposes and values of the camp. I enjoyed many conversations about mathematics and mathematics education with these four dedicated individuals who believed in the mission of the camp as stated so very well on the website.

In addition I made easy and pleasant connections with all the visiting professors and the staff. In every case people were willing to share their ideas and answer my questions. The enthusiasm for what they were doing was always evident and they were all ready to pass on materials and describe resources I could use to improve the job I do in the classroom. After my experience at MathPath I would not hesitate to contact any of the more than 25 educators who contributed to the camp for any advice or help I might want in the future.

While at MathPath I was treated as one of the faculty. I was given a room in the quiet wing reserved for visiting professors, included in every activity I chose to join, with complete freedom to participate to the extent I chose to participate. The experience I had at MathPath could accurately be described as a math teacher's dream vacation. I had constant opportunity for intellectual stimulation along with time and the freedom to reflect on important ideas.

I would recommend any concerned and serious Middle School math teacher consider the teacher-observer experience. It will expand your vision of what children can and should do to love mathematics more than anything you have every done.