Guiding Principles
The following principles reflect the core values and beliefs under which the WSMA
operates. We base our procedures and main goals in accordance with these guidelines.
Guiding Principle #1: "Teach the man how to fish, but
providing him with a fishing rod is just as important."
- WSMA members will lead both by example and through the sharing of resources.
Guiding Principle #2: "The power and capacity of learning
exists in the soul already." - Plato (Allegory of the Cave)
- We seek not to establish institutions for others, but to assist aspiring leaders
in establishing their own institutions.
Guiding Principle #3:
- The WSMA network will provide opportunities to do math as well as discuss how
to lead math clubs.
Guiding Principle #4: "The whole is greater than the
sum of the parts."
- We are a community, but rely on consistent contributions from all members in order
to function.
Guiding Principle #5:
- All opinions and input have equal value. Thus, spontaneous feedback is just as
valuable for us as thorough reasoning.
Guiding Principle #6:"All too often we are giving young
people cut flowers when we should be teaching them to grow their own plants."
- John W. Gardner
- Developing supportive and open-minded programs in elementary and middle schools
is the gateway to future success and sustainment of WSMA.
Guiding Principle #7:"In youth we learn, in age we understand."
- Marie Von Ebner-Eschenbach
- We rely upon wisdom and advice from experienced adults and leaders.
