The UTeach Institute Writing on Board

Overview of NMSI, the UTeach Institute and RFP (2007 Grants)

March 14, 2007

The National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) was formed to address one of this nation's greatest economic and intellectual threats - the declining number of students who are prepared for and take rigorous college courses in mathematics and science. To flourish in the 21st century, the United States must continue to generate intellectual capital that can drive the research and development activities that fuel the economic engine of our future prosperity. This project was initiated as a partnership of private donors, led by ExxonMobil, who are interested in significantly changing the current trends.

A primary goal of the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) is to increase the quantity and quality of secondary mathematics, science, and computer science teachers . This mission is served by partnering with institutions of higher education to create UTeach-type programs on campuses nationwide. UTeach is a highly innovative and successful teacher preparation program, which has doubled the number of mathematics and science majors being certified at the University of Texas at Austin.

Hallmarks of these programs include early and intensive field experiences , a focus on developing deep-level understanding of mathematics and science content , a compact degree plan that allows most students to graduate with a degree and certification in four years, and strong collaboration between the College of Science and College of Education.

In fall 2007, NMSI will award grants to 10 institutions of higher education of up to $2.4 million for the replication of UTeach-type programs over five years. NMSI, in conjunction with the UTeach Institute, which was founded to provide direction and assistance to institutes of higher education starting up UTeach programs, will provide resources, assistance and evaluation to enhance the success of the grants.

Eligible Entities:

Proposals will be solicited from and submitted by fully accredited, four-year, non-profit institutions of higher education in conjunction with the Governor's office in their states.

How To Apply:

Why Apply:

  • The program is proven - UTeach graduates more than 70 math, science, and computer science secondary teachers each year. 92% of graduates enter the classroom immediately, and 82% are still teaching four years later, compared with just 60% of teachers nationally.
  • You want to increase the competitiveness of your community - Math, science, and computer science skills are foundational in today's economy, but too many students have teachers without the benefit of deep subject understanding. All UTeach graduates have at least 24 hours of math, science, or computer science courses and 85% have majors in those fields.
  • You want better prepared teachers for disadvantaged schools - UTeach students have early field experiences, with an emphasis on teaching in high-need schools. Almost half of UTeach graduates teach in schools where more than 50% of students receive free or reduced price lunch.
  • You want to improve teacher education but don't know where to start Through the UTeach Institute, NMSI will provide resources, assistance, and evaluation to enhance the institution's success.
  • You want to make a leveraged investment - the institution's investment will be multiplied through national donors like ExxonMobil and the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation.

For More Information:

 
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