UIndy launches new STEM2Teach program to help address Indiana’s teacher shortage
The University of Indianapolis is launching STEM2Teach, a new program to meet a critical statewide need for teachers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. Beginning this fall, the 36-week program will provide an accelerated pathway to teaching licensure for individuals with STEM degrees who are looking to make a meaningful shift into education.
STEM2Teach was developed in response to Indiana Senate Bill 255, which established the alternative pathway to initial STEM teaching licensure when it took effect last summer. UIndy is one of the first programs in Indiana authorized to offer this pathway.
“Education has the power to transform society by transforming lives,” said John Somers, director of graduate programs in the UIndy School of Education, including STEM2Teach. “At a time when Indiana needs more teachers than ever in math, science and other high-demand fields, STEM2Teach creates an important new pathway for people to bring their strong content knowledge into the classroom and help students see new possibilities for their future. For STEM professionals looking for a meaningful next chapter in their career, whatever their age, this program offers an opportunity to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers.”
STEM2Teach consists of three courses delivered in a hybrid format. Coursework is combined with mentor support and hands-on classroom experiences so that students can immediately apply what they are learning in real-world middle school and high school STEM settings. In the very first STEM2Teach class, students are paired with an experienced STEM teacher who provides ongoing support and coaching through an apprenticeship model throughout the program.
By combining flexible coursework with early field experience, STEM2Teach is designed to help students move quickly from subject-matter expertise to classroom readiness.
“Indiana students need teachers who are prepared to help them thrive by building their skills and confidence to succeed in fields that will shape our future,” said Rachel Feldwisch, interim dean of UIndy’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. “STEM2Teach reflects UIndy’s commitment to champion lifelong learning, provide relevant and innovative educational experiences, and empower people to make a meaningful difference in the world. By connecting STEM professionals and recent graduates with classrooms where their expertise can make an immediate impact, this program can expand opportunities for students across Indiana.”
The STEM2Teach program is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field and want to pursue a teacher’s license without completing a traditional preparation program at either the undergraduate or graduate level. Students who complete the program as well as pass the Indiana Praxis test in their content area such as math, life sciences, physics, etc. will earn a middle or secondary license.
Applications for the first STEM2Teach cohort are now open, with classes beginning in the fall. The program will begin each August and be completed in 36 weeks. More information and application instructions are available at https://uindy.edu/cebs/education/certification/stem2teach
For more information about this new program or its impact on Indiana schools or workforce development, please contact UIndy’s Director of Public & Media Relations Dan Klein at kleind@uindy.edu.