VALDOSTA —
Through a partnership with the Valdosta City School System and an award of nearly $1.2 million from the National Science Foundation, Valdosta State University hopes to more than double the number of science teachers it graduates each year. Before spring semester ends, 10 academically talented, financially needy sophomore biology, chemistry, geosciences, physics, and astronomy students will be recruited for participation in the first cohort of the Valdosta Noyce Scholars Science Teacher Preparation and Retention project.
Dr. Brian L. Gerber, professor and acting dean of the James L. and Dorothy H. Dewar College of Education, said, “The first cohort of 10 students will be recruited this semester. We will look for sophomore science majors that may not know that science teaching in middle or high school could be an option for them. We can even provide some experiences in the local middle schools and high school to help them make that decision. Arrangements can be made for them to sit in on classes in the schools, speak with teachers and administrators, etc. We want them to make an informed decision as they are selecting a career path that will impact the rest of their lives.”
A second cohort of 10 sophomore science majors will be selected during the 2013-2014 academic year, said Gerber, who serves as principal investigator and project director along with Dr. Thomas J. Manning, chemistry professor. The project will primarily target black and Hispanic students from rural South Georgia based on demonstrated academic potential, potential for future professional success, and financial need.
A five-year initiative, Valdosta Noyce Scholars Science Teacher Preparation and Retention project participants will obtain both a bachelor’s degree in a science major and teaching certification through a fifth-year post-baccalaureate program. They will participate in field experiences in middle and high schools in the Valdosta City School System. At the end of their sophomore year, the students will enter the paid summer internship phase of the project. At the start of their junior year, they will receive a scholarship of up to $12,000 per year to cover the costs of their college attendance, including tuition, fees, books and supplies, housing, etc., for three years. Gerber said the amount will vary per student based on what other forms of financial aid he or she is already receiving.
School News
VSU Initiative Focuses On Graduating More Science Teachers
- School News
-
-
VSU partnership focused on improving student achievement in math, science
Valdosta State University is helping third-, fourth-, and fifth-grade teachers from school systems across South Georgia discover the power of science and mathematics. The goal is to improve classroom instruction and, thus, student achievement.
-
Worth Every Sacrifice
Student praises VSU's MFT Program
-
Georgia Christian School reinstates the Office of the President
Jim Thornhill, current GCS board chairman, made the announcement that Brad Lawson, current headmaster, would be the new GCS president effective June 1.
-
Kids discover the Circle of Life at VSU's Camp Discovery
Nearly a dozen boys and girls spent Wednesday morning at Valdosta State University learning all about the life cycle of plants.
-
VSU offers clinical doctorate in speech-language pathology
VSU offers clinical doctorate in speech-language pathology
-
Berrien schools, community help teen
Berrien schools, community help teen
-
Francisco Diaz named new principal of W.G. Nunn Elementary School
Francisco Diaz has been named the new principal of W.G. Nunn Elementary School.
-
Fraction Fun with Hungry Howie’s
Third grade students at Southeast Elementary School learned about fractions with pizza.
-
BCMS Writing Fair winners announced
The 2013 Brooks County Middle School Writing Fair winners were recently announced.
-
BCMS holds career fair
Brooks County Middle School hosted its annual career fair on March 29.
- More School News Headlines
-
VSU partnership focused on improving student achievement in math, science
