Letter of Welcome by the Director Dr. Philip DeShong

Chemistry, chemistry, chemistry! Chemistry has often been referred to as the "central science" and we, as teachers of the subject, have learned to love it for its logic and practicality. Even so, many of our students are intimidated by the subject and approach the class with trepidation. Why is that? Is it the abstractions? The need to have math skills? What can we, as teachers, do to open this world to our students? To make them appreciate the subject? This is the purpose of the REACTS ("Reaching Educators for the Advancement of Chemistry Teaching Statewide") program. REACTS is a network of chemical educators dedicated to improving the teaching of chemistry in K-12. Through online services and regular professional development conferences, we explore new and proven approaches to the teaching of chemistry, share creative tips and anecdotes, and introduce new experiments and software with our colleagues. REACTS activities include:

• an annual conference on teaching methods for high school students
• an online bulletin board for K-12 educators
• on-line seminars and classes
• information relating to professional development for K-12 educators
• information for beginning educators, including mentoring assistance
  
  
  We in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Maryland are proud to host the REACTS program. Please join us! We love what we do and hope to have you as a participant in REACTS.