Our Mission
To provide Texas science and mathematics teachers with support systems of scientifically researched, sustained, and high intensity professional development and mentoring to assist them in the implementation of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Our programs equip teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to engage students in meaningful science and mathematics learning experiences. Activities are designed to improve students’ scientific thinking, their mathematical and technological literacy, and interest to pursue science and engineering related careers.
Achievements
- Served over two million students across Texas through improved instruction and performance of participating teachers; developed the leadership capacity of approximately 17,000 Science Teacher Mentors (STMs) through sustained and high intensity professional development. These STMs are in turn sharing their experiences with thousands of teachers through mentoring, peer coaching, technical assistance, and workshops at the campus, district, and regional levels. In addition, approximately 1,000 Mathematics Teacher Mentors (MTMs) have received sustained and high intensity professional development sponsored by the Texas Education Agency, and supported several thousand additional math teachers with mentoring and outreach. Science and mathematics teachers in almost all of the State’s 254 counties have been the beneficiaries of this extensive statewide network..
- Received commendation from U.S. Department of Education, National Science Foundation, policy makers, legislators, and business partners; inducted into the Texas Science Hall of Fame, and recognized by the Governor, the Senate and House of Representatives for distinguished achievements and contributions to supporting excellence in science education.
Activities
- Professional Development Academies (PDAs) are provided to Instructional Teams that consist of professors of science, mathematics, and engineering education, instructional specialists and master teachers.
- Professional Development Programs designed by instructional teams at each Regional Collaborative provide 75 to 105 contact hours of TEKS-based professional development to prepare teachers to become Science Teacher Mentors (STMs), and Mathematics Teacher Mentors (MTMs).
- Honoring the Teachers events recognize and honor participating teachers and engage policy makers, legislators, and state leaders in the program.
- The Annual Meeting brings together teacher leaders, education and business leaders, policy makers, and legislators to share, network, communicate, and celebrate the achievements of the Collaboratives.
