Paul: Shouldn't the map you attached have a caption? I vote for "Get the Red Out!"
Bill Potts Roseville, CA http://metric1.org [SI Navigator] -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Paul Trusten Sent: Thursday, August 09, 2007 09:44 To: U.S. Metric Association Subject: [USMA:39250] Barbara Morgan, Teacher in Metric Space Dear NCTM Officers and Members, We of the U.S. Metric Association (USMA), Inc., join with you in celebrating the voyage of Barbara Morgan, America's first teacher-space traveler. But, it is to be noted that Ms. Morgan is traveling in the direction of exclusive use of the metric system of measurement by U.S. citizens in space, and it is time for NCTM to join in that effort here on earth.. In January, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announced that the metric system will be the exclusive system of measurement used by U.S. participants in future lunar-exploration operations. This decision was made to establish standardization of parts and communications among the world's different space agencies that will be working together on the moon. While America's view of the universe has become clearer metrologically, the U.S. position on earth is one of cumbersome isolation (please see attached map from the NASA announcement; only the societies colored red do not use the metric system for routine measurement). It is my understanding that NCTM continues to insist upon a policy of teaching both metric and non-metric systems of measurement in U.S. classrooms. But, what of Ms. Morgan, and her opening of the U.S. teacher's vision on an enivironment that uses only metric units? How does NCTM reconcile its measurement teaching policy against what she represents to you this morning, as she orbits the earth? Surely, the pride you must feel for her success should be matched by the understanding that, in her courageous journey, she is calling upon the future of American education. According to NASA, that future uses only the metric system, and I urge you to join that future now. SI-ncerely, -- Paul Trusten, R.Ph. Public Relations Director U.S. Metric Association, Inc. www.metric.org 3609 Caldera Blvd., Apt. 122 Midland TX 79707-2872 USA +1(432)528-7724 [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://oleapothecary.blog.com
