This multi-faceted program addresses the math and science teacher shortage in urban communities by: 1) enhancing teacher education programs at UNCF-member institutions; 2) removing financial barriers for students pursuing careers as math and science teachers through scholarships; 3) providing financial incentives for graduates of the program who go on to become math and science teachers in high-need schools; and 4) providing mentors for students and new teachers.
Program Goals
The three-year pilot is being conducted at Virginia Union University with support from the Altria Group. The initiative includes a cohort of 10 biology, chemistry and math majors. The goals are to:
- Increase the number and quality of African American mathematics and science secondary school teachers teaching in Richmond Public Schools
- Improve learning outcomes for students at Virginia Union University pursuing careers as secondary math and science teachers
- Provide three years of financial incentives to encourage scholarship recipients to become math and science secondary school teachers in Richmond Public Schools
Activities of the pilot program at Virginia Union include:
- Recruitment and career awareness to expand the pool of students pursuing teaching degrees
- Inter-departmental collaboration to recruit math and science majors with the intention of certifying them as teachers
- Teacher certification examination preparation courses to improve pass rates
- Financial assistance for pre-professional skills and certification examination preparation and testing fees
- Academic and social support programs to ensure that students are successfully meeting performance benchmarks along the teacher education continuum
- Coordinating mentors for teacher education students
- Ensuring sustainability of the program after the grant expires