Torchbearer: Winter 1996

Teachers With Class

Dr. Ed Clark (second from left), the James R. Stokely Scholar-in-the-Schools, conducts an experiment with a class at Knoxville's South Doyle Middle School.

Three UTK faculty have reverted to childhood, teaching youngsters in Knox County schools this year.

The three -- Dr. Gerald Vaughan, professor of zoology; Dr. Charles Clark, professor of mathematics; and Tamara Miller, associate professor in the UTK libraries -- are the first Scholars-in-the-Schools. The program was created by the College of Arts and Sciences.

Faculty members competed for the three slots. They not only teach elementary and secondary students, but also work with faculty in the schools sharing ideas to improve the teaching/learning process.

Miller is working with the library at Knoxville's Austin-East High School to establish an Internet connection and make use of global networked information.

She calls the experience "a tonic." The enthusiasm of the students and teachers, she says, has pushed her to learn more.

"This is a rare opportunity for me to understand the practical use of technology in the teaching of building trades, advanced mathematics, special education, business skills, writing, college preparation and a host of library services," she says.

Clark is teaching mathematics at South Doyle Middle School, and Vaughan is working with students at Westhaven Elementary.

The Scholars-in-the-Schools program is funded by private gifts.