San José State University prepares more than half of Santa Clara County's teachers.
But once they're in the classroom, where do these teachers go for professional development services, guidance and mentorship?
"Many teachers don't have adequate resources or opportunities to be able to enjoy the profession," says SJSU Science Professor Emerita Jean Beard. "As a result we're dealing with a high turnover rate. And we're not helping those who do decide to stay."
To date SJSU has not had a systematic way of helping enhance these teachers' professional development once they get credentialed. Beard, however, plans to change that.
Last year, Beard initiated Professional Education Regional Services In Science Teaching (PERSIST) with a $1 million endowment to the College of Science. The funds will support SJSU faculty and others to work with science teachers early in their careers and assist in the teachers' continuing professional development to help them become more effective science educators.
"We know there is a local need," says Beard. "And at San José State we have the interest and the talent to meet that need."
Sustainability of such efforts is also a critical issue. "This gift will keep on giving," says Carol Beattie, director of development for the College of Science. "It is a permanent legacy to science education that will benefit teachers and students for generations to come."
PERSIST complements the College of Science's new initiative called "The Next Generation of Scientists" that seeks to produce a globally-competitive, high-quality science workforce. The endowment may also fund research and curriculum development beyond what SJSU and CSU programs offer.
"PERSIST could offer seminars, lecture series, workshops, research projects … any activity that will help local teachers feel supported," Beard says. "By having SJSU science faculty and local teachers brainstorm together, we'll also strengthen the university's partnership with the K-12 science teaching community in Silicon Valley."
-- Mansi Bhatia
The PERSIST endowment will benefit teachers like Anne Sanderfer, '86 Physics, '07 credential, at Monroe Middle School in Campbell, who want to inspire a love of science in their students. For more information on supporting PERSIST, please contact Ellen Metzger, director, science education program, at 408-924-5048. To learn more about sponsorship and endowment opportunities for the Center for STEM Education within the College of Science, contact Carol Beattie, director of development, at 408-924-1328.
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