Support for Science and Mathematics Students who are Considering A Career as a Pre- through High-School Teacher

A survey conducted in spring 2005 by Profs. Carnal and Tanner found that future teachers in math and science, on the elementary and secondary levels, and masters-degree and teaching-credential students do not feel a sense of community, nor do they feel supported or respected by COSE or their peers for their choice to be educators. The students reported that they did not feel guided on their career path and had to find for themselves, between scattered and under-funded advising efforts, a path through what is a tangle of pathways to a teaching career, always in danger of falling between the cracks. It was only through heroic personal efforts and conviction that they stayed on the path to be teachers.

Students expressed particular regret for the absence of a dedicated physical space at SFSU in which to gather and network. As envisioned, the Center will not only provide such a place, but also offer students a unified starting point for their requests for help and guidance, and a reliable source of relevant information to help each student find his or her appropriate way. The Center will provide both a physical and social context for their efforts, which will attract, motivate and sustain them through their studies and the credential process.

There is a critical estrangement between content experts, education researchers and practitioners. This phenomenon is endemic across America. Progress in math and science education reform is limited by the lack of cooperation among three crucial groups: content researchers studying pure mathematics and science; researchers studying mathematics and science education; and practitioners teaching classes and working with teachers and students at all grade levels.

Because there is no effective current academic structure, either physical or organizational, to encourage such collaborations, the Center hopes to address this situation by providing just such a structure: physical, organizational, social, and professional.

If you are thinking about becoming a P-12 teacher, please check our information on

• Fellowships for Future Middle- and High-School Math and Science Teachers (I.e., monetary support while you complete your undergraduate degree and/or your credential program.)


• Advising for Future P-12 Teachers


• Credential Information for P-12 Teachers


• Subject Matter Preparation for High School Teachers

If you are an in-service K-12 teacher, please check our project listings for workshop, partnership, and curriculum material support.