The Center for Science & Mathematics Education at the University of Utah

Math for America: Utah

Math for America (MfA) Utah helps teachers become leaders in math & science education.

Introduction

MfA Utah, also known as SMART, was started in January, 2010 with the goal of creating teacher leaders who use their mathematical talents to make a difference in students' lives and transform schools into learning communities. MfA Utah is one of eight sites nationally of the Math for America program, started in 2004 in New York City.

MfA Utah offers the Fellowship to candidates with strong mathematical background to help future teachers develop an in-depth understanding of mathematical content and connections through a content-driven pedagogical training program, followed by placement in public secondary schools to continually extend their learning. This fellowship includes classroom teaching oversight under the supervision of an experienced teacher as mentor, for the first two years. Both fellow and mentor may enter the University's Master of Science in Teaching. The MfA Utah Fellowship is a partnership with the University of Utah, Utah State University and Utah public school districts, with funding from the National Science Foundation Robert Noyce Teaching Scholarship Program and the Math for America Foundation.

Fellowship Opportunities

The MfA Utah Fellowship is a five-year program in which recent college graduates and mid-career professionals make a commitment to teach math in public secondary schools. In the first year, Fellows receive a stipend of up to $18,000, and tuition compensation for courses leading to licensure as a secondary school mathematics teacher with a level IV endorsement. For the next four years they will serve as teachers in Utah schools, obtain a master's degree in mathematics with an emphasis in teaching, continue supplementary stipend, mentoring and support for professional development opportunities. Mentors also will receive a stipend and tuition compensation for courses leading to a Master's degree.

Future Math for America Plans

We plan to include other Utah universities in the MfA program; in particular, to mesh with the Noyce Fellowship Program at Utah Valley University. In addition we plan to expand the program into other sciences, starting with Physics and Chemistry.

Information for Current Fellows
Information for Prospective Fellows
Information for Mentors