Axe ’Em, Jacks!
NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Stephen F. Austin State University students pursuing a career in science or mathematics teaching will benefit from a $1.4 million collaborative grant from the National Science Foundation for SFA’s Talented Teachers in Training for Texas program.
Through the program, offered through the SFA College of Sciences and Mathematics, students considering a career in science or mathematics teaching shadow specially trained master teachers in a math or science classroom during a workweek. Students selected receive a stipend of $450 per week and can participate in a variety of mentoring and recruiting activities.
More than 100 SFA students have already benefitted from the program since its inception in 2011, said Dr. Keith Hubbard, T4 project director and professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Though SFA alumna Sarah Boon was ready for her own classroom after graduation, the time she spent in the program focusing on STEM education helped further prepare her for her current career as a math teacher.
“Our mentors in the program would model different teaching strategies by teaching a mini lesson during our meetings,” Boon said. “Participating in these lessons as a future teacher rather than just as a student opened my eyes to how effective these methods could be.”
Boon now teaches algebra at a charter school in Round Rock that focuses on inquiry-based learning and a global context. The support system she built through the program has been integral during her first year of teaching.
“Coming in as a first-year teacher, creating lessons that incorporate these ideas can be overwhelming; however, I graduated from SFA with the tools to create authentic and engaging learning experiences for my students,” she said. “I also have a huge support system, thanks to the T4 program.”
To learn more about T4 or to apply, visit sfasu.edu/jacksteach/t4.