Adelphi Receives Federal NSF Grant to Create Unique Science Teacher Education Program

Online, December 19, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Adelphi University has been awarded a federal grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to implement the "Science Education Advancement (SEA) Program/NSF Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program," which will provide both funding and support for undergraduate and graduate students studying science and career-changers who are looking to pursue a teaching career in one of the science disciplines. Upon completion of the program, Noyce Scholars will receive an M.A. in adolescence education leading to initial New York State certification for grades 7-12 in chemistry, biology, earth science, or physics. Adelphi University Ruth S. Ammon School of Education Assistant Professor Dr. Tracy Hogan serves as the principle investigator and Associate Professor and Director of the Environmental Studies Program Dr. Beth Christensen serves as co-principle investigator. Funding for the program was received in September 2011 and classes are scheduled to begin in summer 2012.

Ten Scholar Teacher Education Program (STEP) undergraduate scholars and 16 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) scholars will complete rigorous coursework coupled with classroom experiences in either the Westbury School District or Queens High School for Teaching with support and close supervision by a teacher-mentor and University faculty. Scholars will also participate in the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards Take One! program module. Furthermore, scholars will have the opportunity to engage in two field experiences-one working with a professional marine educator on Long Island and another studying the rainforest ecosystems in Australia-in addition to a paid summer internship working with naturalists and students grades 8-12 at the Nassau BOCES Outdoor Education Center.

STEP scholars will receive a $15,000 stipend during their junior year, $18,000 their senior year, and $22,000 their fifth year for completion of their M.A. STEM scholars will receive a $22,500 supportive stipend during the 12-month graduate program. After completing the program, Noyce scholars are obligated to teach for two years for each year of scholarship received, seeking employment in a high-needs school setting. Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and have completed 30 credit hours in their specific science discipline. Applicants will be expected to submit two letters of recommendation and a critical essay.

For more information, visit http://education.adelphi.edu/departments-programs/curriculum-and-instruction/grant-funded-programs/. To apply for this program, contact the Advisory Committee at [email protected] or Professor Hogan at [email protected].

Adelphi University Ruth S. Ammon School of Education: The Adelphi University Ruth S. Ammon School of Education is a scholarly community committed to providing educational opportunities for professional growth at the Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral levels by creating authentic academic and field experiences, cultivating respect for the diverse populations served, embracing ethical practices, and preparing students to become reflective change agents through research, collaboration, and leadership. The School's innovative curriculum is built upon the core values of scholarship, reflective practice, social justice, inclusive community, wellness, and creativity and the arts. Visit the Ruth S. Ammon School of Education website at http://education.adelphi.edu/.