The Association began in Chicago in 1901 under the name of the Central Association of Physics Teachers with C. H. Smith as President. In 1902, the name was changed to the Central Association of Science and Mathematics Teachers (CASMT), and C. H. Smith was again President. It was formally incorporated in the State of Illinois on July 18, 1928. On December 8, 1970, the Association changed its name to School Science and Mathematics Association to match the name of the journal and to eliminate the regional connotation as the organization had been national and international in scope for many years. Throughout its entire history, the Association has served as a sounding board and enabler for numerous related organizations (e.g. Pennsylvania Science Teachers Association in 1904 and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics).
SSMA's main activities include publication of its journal, School Science and Mathematics and newsletter, Mathematics-Science Connector, conducting national conventions, and funding innovative classroom projects through its Endowment Grant Program.
School Science and Mathematics Journal is published monthly eight times per year. It has been published continuously since 1901. Its most numerous consumers are libraries around the world. The next largest blocks are members who receive it as part of their membership services.
The Mathematics-Science Connector is a quarterly newsletter with announcements and reports of the Association and other information of interest to the membership.
Special publications include monographs in two series: Topics for Teachers for curriculum leaders and Classroom Activities for classroom teacher use.
The Annual Conventions are held each Fall in various sites around the country. All conventions include both science and mathematics teaching as well as their integration. SSMA has been a national leader in bringing together science teacher and mathematics teacher organizations.
SSMA also provides direct support to classroom teachers through its Endowment Grant Program. Each year up to $500 is made available for exemplary projects that integrate science and mathematics in grades K-12. Travel funds to attend the national conventions and present the project may be available.