Growing Future STEM Teachers in Maine Program
Growing Future STEM Teachers in Maine (GFSTM) seeks to recruit and prepare future science and math teachers, and provide continued support as they enter the classroom in high-need school districts. GFSTM, a partnership between Saint Joseph’s College and Southern Maine Community College, is committed to growing the pool of highly qualified secondary STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teachers in Maine by creating and supporting multiple pathways into the profession and helping districts “grow their own.”
- Explore – Current SJC undergraduates, community college students, and high school students with an interest in STEM education are encouraged to sign up to become a GFSTM associate. You’ll be able to participate in a variety of activities to determine whether teaching is the right path for you!
- Preparation – Rising 3rd- and 4th- year students (including transfer students) in four STEM & Secondary Education programs can apply to be GFSTM Noyce Scholars and receive FULL TUITION scholarships to support their preparation.
- Support – After graduation, GFSTM Noyce Scholars will have access to mentoring and professional development through the program.
GFSTM is generously funded by the National Science Foundation.
Meet the 2020 GFSTM Noyce Scholarship recipients.
GFSTM Activities
Individuals with a passion for STEM & Secondary Education are invited to become GFSTM Associates. GFSTM Associates are eligible to participate in the following program activities:
- Teaching Experience Short Course (TESC) – SJC, community college, and high school students will spend a week learning STEM content and how to teach it to students in high-need rural and urban schools. Participants will earn 1 credit (STEM 100: STEM Teaching in High Needs Schools, instructed by Dr. Dorland and Dr. Waters) AND earn a $200 stipend. The course runs August 15 – August 20. Space is limited and applications will be reviewed as they are received (final deadline July 8). Apply today!
Agenda
Sat., Aug 15 – Move-in day
Sun., Aug 16 – DIY sensors and environmental monitoring with Dr. Dorland
Mon., Aug 17 – STEM teaching in high-needs schools with Dr. Waters and planning for STEM Day
Tues., Aug 18 – What’s it really like? A conversation with secondary teachers, coaches, and administrators. Final planning and practicing for STEM Day
Wed., Aug 19 – STEM Day@SJC!! We will welcome 40 middle schoolers to campus, and you’re in charge!
Thurs., Aug 20 – Closing and reflection
- Careers in STEM Education Workshops -Canceled.
- Online Educational Foundations Course (ED100) – This three-credit introductory education course is offered online as a summer course to help students transition into STEM & Secondary Education pathways. (May 18 – August 14) Applications are due Wednesday, April 15.
- Deep Dive Seminars – This seminar series provides the opportunity to explore topics identified by high-need school partners such as trauma-informed teaching, rural challenges, and Native American traditions and their relationship to education.
- Virtual Information Session – To be announced. Learn more about FULL tuition scholarships and upcoming GFSTM program opportunities!
GFSTM Associates are strongly encouraged to apply to become a GFSTM Noyce Scholar and receive FULL TUITION scholarships and additional programming during their third and fourth years in one of the STEM & Secondary Education program pathways (see the GFSTM Noyce scholarships page for more details).
Curriculum
Highlights of the secondary education minor include flexibility in format (online or on-campus), personal instruction, and a progression of teaching skills as candidates receive training in authentic contexts through sequential field experiences.
Saint Joseph’s College features four accredited STEM & Secondary Education programs:
Funding Agencies and Partners
Deering High School
Lewiston High School
Westbrook High School
Bonny Eagle High School
Old Town High School
Windham Middle and High School
Lake Region Middle and High School
