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The Agilent Foundation is partnering with the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) to expand the NSTA New Science Teacher Academy. NSTA is the world's largest professional organization promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning. Research studies show student achievement is highest when teachers have been on the job at least seven years. It is estimated, however, that 40 percent to 50 percent of new teachers leave the profession within five years. As a result, education quality suffers. Principal reasons cited by departing science teachers include lack of adequate support and professional development options. Launched in 2007, the NSTA New Science Teacher Academy is a year-long professional development program established to help reduce the high attrition rate among new science teachers. Intended for middle and high school science educators entering their second or third year of teaching, the Academy is designed to help promote quality science teaching, enhance teacher confidence and classroom excellence and improve teacher content knowledge. In 2008 and 2009, the Agilent Technologies Foundation funded the participation of 10 science teachers in California, Colorado and Delaware as Agilent Foundation-NSTA Fellows. Selected Fellows receive a comprehensive membership package, online mentoring with trained mentors who teach in the same discipline, and the opportunity to participate in a variety of Web-based professional development activities. In addition, each Fellow receives financial support to attend and participate in NSTA's National Conference on Science Education. The Academy is closely aligned with the Agilent Foundation’s belief that development and support of science educators is the most effective path to high-quality science education that engages and inspires students. For more information visit www.nsta.org/academy. |