CSU San Marcos
CSU San Marcos has responded to the need for math and science teachers with several pro-active solutions. CSUM has developed a subject matter waiver program for mathematics secondary credential candidates, which waives the CSET requirement and also provides financial aid for those obtaining initial or second credentials.
Supported by the National Science Foundation’s Robert Noyce Scholarship Program, CSUSM has a collaboration with the Rochester Institute of Technology to provide funding for graduates from that institution, who are interested in teaching, to come to CSUSM to pursue their teaching credential. In addition, that scholarship money supports career changers and other recent mathematics and science graduates seeking a teaching credential. In repayment, they agree to teach for two years in high needs schools in our area.
In addition to scholarship support, CSUSM’s MSTI project identifies promising undergraduate students in mathematics and science to serve as “Learning Assistants” (LAs). LAs serve as learning coaches in university math and science courses. This program provides LAs with teaching experience and improves the quality of undergraduate courses. Las meet with the mathematics and science professors in whose courses they are assisting to plan interactive learning projects which allow them to be part of the teaching process. LAs also attend a weekly seminar on pedagogy and learning conducted by College of Education mathematics and science educators. The LA project is aimed at recruiting undergraduates who may not otherwise be thinking about a teaching career.
The Teacher Recruitment Project identifies prospective math and science teachers and offers scholarships to those planning to pursue a career as a teacher. In addition, the Summer Bridge Program includes the opportunity for students to take six units of prerequisites, have their fees paid, and receive a stipend of $500 if they are planning to teach middle or high school math.
CAMP (College Assistance Migrant Program) is designed to support first year university students from migrant or seasonal farm worker families, to help them develop skills necessary to succeed in college. CSU San Marcos has the only CAMP in the nation administered through a College of Education, encouraging students to go into teaching.
CSU San Marcos is the lead for San Diego County of Math for America (MFA). This distinguished program provides $15,000 per year to teachers, most of whom complete a credential program then a Master’s degree and commit to working in a high need school and district.