As you may know, the need for secondary teachers is at an all-time high, particularly in the areas of mathematics and science. Currently, many districts award signing bonuses and there is even pending state legislation to increase compensation to such professionals. As teachers ourselves, we fell strongly that there is no higher calling than this highly esteemed and noble profession.

In an effort to positively affect the future of mathematics and science education, we created the MASS Program. This program utilizes a field-based approach to math and science education that features hands-on teaching strategies in local secondary classrooms with some of the area's best master teachers. Students seeking certification graduate with the same number of hours as any other major and receive a degree in one of four areas of specialization; biology, chemistry, mathematics or physics.

If you are talented student majoring in the area of mathematics or science who would like to explore a future in teaching, I encourage you to ask your academic advisor for more details about how to enroll in TEFB 201, the initial field based course. The experience could provide you the valuable insight into the field of education and the profession of teaching – it may even provide you with a new and exciting career option!

Timothy P. Scott
Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs