A New Idea

You must hold or plan to receive a master’s degree or higher before June 2014 in order for your project to be considered.

This fellowship gives you the opportunity to create your own externship experience based on your classroom needs, professional interests or local economic development trends. Unlike the state-wide design your own project opportunity, this project is only available to those counties listed in the district availability section. This specific project is made possible through a grant from the National Science Foundation’s Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program.

In completing the online application, please describe your idea for the project and explain how you intend to use the lessons in your classroom and beyond for the benefit of students. Also, feel free to provide suggestions for individuals and/or organizations in your local community who may be willing to engage you in their work and serve as your mentor. Your project idea should allow you to design compelling lessons focused on critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, creativity, teamwork and innovation.

In addition to the development of a new and innovative curriculum and working with your mentor, you will also work with a local Institution of Higher Education and/or your local school system to plan and implement workshops and trainings for either pre-service and/or beginning teachers. This will allow you to share your resources and experience with those preparing to enter the profession. This additional commitment will most likely occur after your externship has culminated. Because of the unique requirements of this grant funded project, you will receive a total stipend of $10,000.

Potential projects should satisfy at least one of the following:
1.) Link STEM education with workforce requirements of the local economy
2.) Link STEM education with current research-based pedagogy