At the same moment, two trains leave Chicago and New York. They move towards each other with constant speeds. The train from Chicago is moving at speed of 40 miles per hour, and the train from New York is moving at speed of 60 miles per hour. The distance between Chicago and New York is 1000 miles. How long after their departure will they meet?

For some of us (well, at least me) this question sends us right back to middle school math class and we shudder at the memories. For others, these word problems are a fun challenge. At the next Minnesota Meeting we will talk about how to get kids excited and stay interested in math and sciences.  In particular, Are there barriers to girls and boys of all races and all socio-economic levels participating in and excelling in these topics?

Our keynote speaker, Dr. Mae Jemison, has had fascinating experiences in math and science. She is the first African American female to travel in space. Her academic career included attending Stanford at the age of 16. Trained as a doctor, she worked in private practice and for the Peace Corps in Sierra Leone and Liberia. Dr. Jemison is also an accomplished dancer and has the honor of being the first real astronaut to appear on Star Trek.

Dr. Mae Jemison

Among these many talents, Dr. Jemison is an outstanding speaker and will address the issue of preparing students for the changing demands of the workplace. An academic foundation in math and science is increasingly important, as economic forecasts project 20-33% increase in scientific and technical occupations in Minnesota in ten years. In addition, Dr. Eric Jolly, president of the Science Museum of Minnesota will lead an interactive discussion with local students about their classroom experiences with math and science.

We hope you’ll join us. Click here for more information on Minnesota Meeting and registration.

I do, in fact, know the answer to the problem above.  Post your answer and we’ll see if you are right!