The Integrated Science, Math and Reflective Thinking (iSMART) program is designed to improve science and math instruction by presenting opportunities to incorporate the two subjects and to develop the leadership skills of teachers who will collaborate with their online classmates.
The funds will be distributed over six years and will support the tuition for four groups of 25 teachers.
Provost John Antel will announce the program at an appreciation luncheon for the Greater Texas Foundation at noon, April 1 at the Melcher Board Room of the Athletics/Alumni Center.
"This program takes strong teachers from across the state and rewards them with a free graduate program," said Jennifer Chauvot, assistant professor of math education. "They will learn models of teaching that show how the subjects can be integrated, develop curriculum they can incorporate into their teaching, and learn from each other so that they can be leaders on their campuses."
The program will begin in the summer of 2010. Students will be chosen through a competitive process.
"The foundation is committed to supporting efforts that promote quality teaching, learning and achievement," said Wynn Rosser, executive director of The Greater Texas Foundation. "We're confident in the ability of the University of Houston to successfully implement iSMART and in the teachers who will take advantage of the opportunity it presents."
The purpose of the Greater Texas Foundation is to improve education in the state through public-private partnerships and by providing funding to educational institutions. In addition to the creation of multiple scholarship endowments, the foundation supports excellence in education through initiatives that enhance math and science education; increases access to higher education; provides skill enhancement and induction-program opportunities for teachers; and/or encourages parental and community involvement in education.
For more information on the UH College of Education, visit http://www.coe.uh.edu/.
| WHAT: | Appreciation Luncheon for the Greater Texas Foundation to announce a $3 million grant supporting iSMART. |
| WHEN: | Noon, Wednesday, April 1 |
| WHERE: | UH Bauer College of Business, Room 365 |
For directions and parking information, visit http://www.uh.edu/campus_map/buildings/MH.php.