Menendez, Booker Announce $1.2M for Rowan University to Train, Place More Science & Math Teachers in South Jersey Schools

Press Release

U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today announced the awarding of a $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program to Rowan University to address the urgent need for a qualified and diverse pool of science and mathematics teachers in South Jersey.

"I have long-advocated for increased emphasis on STEM education in our schools, and this important federal funding will help ensure our children have a highly-qualified math and science teacher in the classroom," said Sen. Menendez. "Supporting Rowan's effort to increase diversity and expand STEM education opportunities in underserved communities will improve New Jersey's public education and help unlock the potential in more students. The STEM students we educate now will become the next generation of innovators and business leaders."

"I applaud Rowan University for taking this important step in preparing the next generation of teachers and paving the way for the future success of our children in New Jersey and beyond," said Sen. Booker. "Federal investment in New Jersey's STEM education through innovative programs like this is key to strengthening the future of our economy and preparing a 21st Century workforce."

Partnering with public schools in Glassboro, Millville and Vineland, Rowan University recently developed an innovative Master of Arts in STEM Education program that focuses on teacher preparation using research-based best practices for prospective teachers, and centers around a year-long residency in local, high-need schools. The NSF-funded project will allow Rowan to tap the university's growing mathematics and natural sciences student population, and foster increased STEM literacy throughout the region.

In addition to receiving Noyce Scholarships, the students and recent program graduates will have access to a support structure that provides professional development and mentorship from veteran teachers. The program will also facilitate the creation of a lasting and diverse community of educators who share and disseminate best practices. At the conclusion of the five-year project, 25 new STEM teachers will have begun their teaching careers in local, high-need schools.

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