PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The mission of the K-8 Mathematics and Science Education degree is to improve the quality of mathematics and science teaching and leadership in central Florida by providing leadership efforts to:

• Strengthen the quality of teaching and learning in mathematics and science
• Create a networks of school-based leadership in mathematics and science education
• Increase the number of students who enter high school and choose to enroll in mathematics and science courses that will prepare them for careers in mathematics, science and technology fields.

At the Lockheed Martin/UCF Academy, leadership is an essential part of our teacher education. The Scholars become a source of delivery of professional development for teachers in their respective schools.

326 teachers have graduated from the program since its inception in 1992, many of whom have proven to be highly motivated individuals who continue to grow professionally through formal education settings. For example, 32 graduates have achieved National Board of Professional Teaching Standards certification, far surpassing the 3% certification rate for classroom teachers in Florida. Additonally, 10 Academy graduates have completed doctoral or Educational Specialists degrees, and 21 graduates are currently enrolled in such programs.

Many graduates have been recognized for service to their communities. Awards include nomination for Teacher of the Year at their respective schools and counties, as well as prestigious national awards such as the National Science Foundation Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching (1996 and 2002), the National Science Foundation State Systemic Initiative Promising Practice Practitioner (1995) and the Fulbright Memorial Fund in 1999 and 2001.

Teachers interested in the program should apply both to UCF’s K-8 Mathematics and Science Education program and to the Academy. Requirements for acceptance include three years of teaching experience upon admission, a current public school teaching assignment in a regular classroom (not gifted, SLD, etc.) in an elementary school or in middle school mathematics or science, a valid teaching certificate for Elementary, Science 5-9, Science 6-12, Mathematics 5-9, or Mathematics 6-12.