Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy: DigitalCommons@IMSANot a member yet
9795 research outputs found
Sort by
An Analysis of New York’s Drug Policies: Comparing the Effectiveness of Punitive Punishment Versus Rehabilitation in Preventing Recidivism
Get PDFThe persistent failure of punitive drug policies, exemplified by the Rockefeller Drug Laws, necessitates a critical re-examination of how society addresses drug offenses. For decades, New York State has been at the forefront of both the implementation of harsh drug sentencing laws and the subsequent development of innovative rehabilitation alternatives. The trajectory of this policy evolution reveals a profound shift in understanding the nature of addiction and the most effective approaches to reducing drug-related crime. When New York enacted the Rockefeller Drug Laws in 1973, they represented the epitome of punitive drug policy by imposing mandatory minimum sentences of fifteen years to life for possession of just four ounces of narcotics.1 These laws, intended to deter drug use and dismantle drug trafficking networks, instead led to skyrocketing incarceration rates without demonstrably reducing drug crime or addiction rates. The Rockefeller Drug Laws represent a demonstrative example of how punitive measures have systematically failed to address drug-related issues effectively. The historical context for these laws emerged from mounting public concern about rising drug use and urban crime in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Governor Rockefeller, previously known for supporting rehabilitation approaches, dramatically reversed course after concluding that treatment programs had failed to stem the tide of drug abuse. This political calculation reflected the growing tough on crime sentiment that would dominate American criminal justice policy for decades. The legislation was explicitly designed to deter drug use through fear of severe punishment and to incapacitate drug dealers through lengthy incarceration, operating under the assumption that removing individuals from society would necessarily reduce drug availability and use
Bisecting Science Through the Use of Art
Get PDFParticipants will discover, through art and drawing, how students can understand the inner workings and parts of a bisected specimen. In this hands-on session, we will explore the inner workings of an Indigenous plant. We will also explore the use of both low- and high-end technology within a classroom. Takeaways will include concepts and hands-on activities for use in grades 6-12
Confocal Microscopy of Diverse Protocells
No full textModern life is composed of compartmentalization, genetics, metabolism, and self- replication. The precursors to all of this are thought to be protocells, simpler cells that have a lipid membrane with RNA on the inside. This report focuses on the lipid membrane aspect of protocells. Protocells can be made spontaneously if the right environmental conditions are met (eg. pH and concentration of chemicals). We made these protocells in the lab as a model system for the origin of cellular life. Different environmental conditions can make protocells with different membrane characteristics (eg. number of layers, shape, and size). We analyzed these protocells by staining the membrane and inside of the protocells with dyes and imaging them on a confocal microscope. The confocal microscope gives high-resolution in speed, pixel resolution, and allows for videos. To help image accurately, we utilized biotin- avidin conjugations to anchor protocells to the glass surface. Through our confocal microscopy experiments, we observed several complex protocell morphologies and shape transformations, these give new insights into how diverse protocell shapes have different functions
Recipient of the 2025 Alumni Titan Award
No full textDion Steele 95\u27
Dion Steele, a charter alumnus of IMSA, is a visionary leader with a proven record in education, youth development, and community impact. He has served as Principal at Art in Motion Creative Arts School and Urban Prep Academies, and as Director of External Partnerships at the University of Chicago Charter Schools, where he empowered students and teams through culturally responsive leadership. With expertise in education, social justice, and organizational strategy, Dion has driven transformative initiatives that champion innovation, inclusion, and student success. Respected for his authenticity, strategic insight, and commitment to equity, he embodies the qualities of a servant leader. A dedicated supporter of IMSA, Dion mentors students, contributes to events such as the African American Read-In and MLK celebrations, and has served on alumni and admissions panels— reflecting IMSA’s mission to develop leaders who shape a better future. He holds a B.A. in History and African American Studies from the University of Illinois Urbana- Champaign and an M.A. in Divinity from the University of Chicago
FTC TITANS #17576 2025 ENGINEERING Portfolio
No full textFTC Robotics is a program for students to engage with designing, building, and driving an 18x18x18\u27 robot to compete in local, regional, and state competitions. The TITANS #17576 were founded in 2019 and continue to be high-performing competitors and active members of the local STEM community. We have used STEM education and robotics to inspire over 54K people across the globe in the 24/25 season, using avenues such as publishing resources, creating STEM programs for all ages, and connecting with professionals in the field. This past season, the team was awarded the 3rd Place Inspire Award for overall excellence at the regional level and was the captain of the Division Finalist Alliance. We are excited to continue growing as innovators and thinkers this next season. Go TITANS!https://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/cii_dsw/1007/thumbnail.jp
Family Reading Night 2025
No full texthttps://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/frn_images_2025/1014/thumbnail.jp
Family Reading Night 2025
No full texthttps://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/frn_images_2025/1015/thumbnail.jp
Congressman Bill Foster
No full textCongressman Bill Foster visited Dr. Dong’s summer research class! Students shared their particle physics projects, and Congressman Foster inspired them with his unique journey from Fermilab scientist to U.S. Congress.https://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/homepage/1067/thumbnail.jp