Increasing the Number of Highly-Qualified Biology and Mathematics Secondary Teachers in the Joliet, Illinois Area

University Of St. Francis, Joliet IL

Investigators

Abstract

The University of St. Francis (USF) Track 1 Noyce project will provide scholarships and stipends for talented undergraduate STEM majors to pursue teaching careers in high-need high schools. The project aims to address the critical need for highly effective secondary STEM teachers in the Joliet/Greater Chicago region by preparing and mentoring at least 24 new STEM teachers. In particular, USF will increase the number of secondary biology and mathematics teachers by increasing the number of STEM majors successfully completing biology and mathematics licensure. The project will also increase the effectiveness of Scholars as teachers and teacher leaders through evidence-based practices, field experiences in high-needs classrooms, informal science education opportunities, additional teaching and research opportunities, and mentoring from STEM and education faculty. The USF Noyce project will provide at least 24 undergraduate and transfer students from Joliet Junior College academic scholarships and and summer stipends. Scholars will receive excellent preparation in STEM and teacher education via USF's teacher certification pathway, a rigorous 4+1 program. Funding will support the final two years of the undergraduate degree in mathematics or biology and an additional year leading to the Master of Education degree with Secondary Educator Licensure. In addition, the project will engage Scholars in co-curricular STEM education and leadership opportunities, such as STEM service learning projects, teaching STEM in a summer camp, undergraduate research, and participation in local and/or national conferences. USF Noyce Scholar teachers will be mentored by STEM and Education faculty and alumni for two years post-graduation via an online Professional Learning Community. Program evaluation and other research studies will contribute to the body of knowledge on STEM teacher preparation and new teacher retention in high needs schools. Results will be disseminated at regional and national conferences. A newsletter that highlights Scholars' experiences will be distributed to principals in regional high-needs schools. Several Chicago area schools will benefit from the addition of 24 new STEM teachers. USF Noyce Scholars will be well prepared to integrate STEM into mathematics and biology instruction as well as via co-curricular activities, thus fostering STEM literacy in traditionally underrepresented students who may be inspired to pursue careers in STEM fields. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.