Scientists, engineers and mathematics professionals are educating the next generation of thinkers full-time thanks to an innovative program at the University of Central Florida that provides them with the knowledge and experience necessary to lead a classroom.
Forty-six students, part of the first class of UCF 麻豆精品 S檚 Resident Teacher Professional Preparation Program, will graduate with Master of Arts in Teaching degrees in August. The 15-month program was designed by the College of Education in response to the growing need for skilled workers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
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Known as RTP3, the program is open to those who have earned undergraduate degrees in a STEM field since 2008 and have no experience teaching. Students accepted into the program work directly with UCF 麻豆精品 S檚 partners, including Florida Virtual School and the school districts in Orange, Seminole, Volusia and Lake Counties.
The program is funded by a $10 million Race to the Top grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Grant funding covers all aspects of the program, including tuition costs for students.
For resident teacher Sandy Do, who teaches ninth and 10th grade biology at Dr. Phillips High School, the teacher training program has exposed her to progressive teaching practices that haven 麻豆精品 S檛 yet been integrated into most mainstream classes.
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This month, 81 new students will begin coursework for the 2013-2014 program, and they 麻豆精品 S檒l start serving as resident teachers in local schools in August.
Through the program, resident teachers receive instructional coaching and feedback from their partner schools, which allows them to improve their classroom practices. Corbet Wilson, director of teaching and learning for Seminole County Public Schools, says students have responded positively to resident teachers.
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To learn more about the program, visit .