Education professionals from across the state gathered at Wallace Community College Selma this week to develop partnerships and learn more about getting students interested in math and science.

The college played host to the annual SECME State Leadership Conference, a two-day event that brought together teachers, school administrators, community leaders, college professors, parents and students.

“SECME is a national organization composed of 117 school districts in 17 states. We provide resources and information to help students become more excited about science and math,” said Michele Williams, SECME program manager for Community Engagement.

During the conference, participants heard from various speakers, held small group discussions, and participated in various hands-on activities.

“We also have a parent impowerment program,” Williams said. “This has been a well-rounded conference going on.”

Dr. Robert Brooks, national director of Magnet Schools of America, said the conference was a good opportunity for him to interact with several school administrators.

“This is a chance to see leadership opportunities and leadership change,” said Brooks. “Everything we’ve talked about (at the conference), I deal with in my organization. This has been a really good opportunity to work with the different schools.”

Selma City Schools Superintendent Dr. James Carter said he believes the teachers and administrators could benefit from the professional development they received at the conference.

The city school system is partnering with WCCS and other state colleges to work with SECME to create a Early College High School program beginning this fall. Their goal is to dramatically increase high school graduation and college attendance rates for underserved youth.

Dennis Moore, program director of the Foundation for Excellent Schools, said he was also thrilled to be a part of the SECME conference in Selma.

“This is a way to plow new ground for kids,” Moore said. “I’m thrilled to be a part of this new Early College High School Initiative.”

Williams said Alabama has been a participant in SECME for many years and having the conference in Selma gave it a more local feel.

The SECME conference ended on Friday with ball at the Selma Convention Center.