Program Overview

Introduction to teachHOUSTON

The teachHOUSTON program is committed to combating the shortage of qualified math and science teachers in the country. It emphasizes early and ongoing field-based teaching experiences while students work to attain a bachelor's degree in math or science.

Program Overview

The program is open to undergraduate mathematics and science majors interested in secondary STEM teaching or who want to expand their professional skills. Students graduate in four years with a degree in math or science as well as teacher certification.

Key Statistics

• 95% of graduates are teaching in the greater Houston area.
• 75% of graduates are teaching in high-need schools.
• 90% of graduates continue as public school teachers beyond two years.
• Graduates are teaching mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology.
• The program graduates one of the largest pools of chemistry teachers in the country (top 2% of universities nationally).

Mission

The mission of teachHOUSTON is to transform STEM teaching and learning by recruiting, developing, retaining, and supporting high-quality secondary STEM teachers and leaders, and to provide access to STEM teachers for all learners in the Greater Houston area and beyond.

Objectives

• Recruit prospective STEM teacher candidates at the University of Houston and beyond.
• Increase access to the STEM teaching profession.
• Partner with local school districts to provide a highly qualified STEM teacher pipeline to teach in high-need schools.

Goals

• Develop undergraduate STEM majors and career changers to enter the teaching profession as STEM teachers and leaders.
• Ensure that the next generation of students will have mathematics and science teachers who inspire them to discover, to create, and to lead.
• Develop teacher candidates to teach all students regardless of background so that those students have access to engaging and high-quality STEM education.
• Positively impact the STEM teacher profession through developing awareness among teachers to honor the STEM teaching profession.
• Enable teachers to think and work more creatively not only in the teaching of STEM content but also in the application of culturally responsive teaching and management.
• Secure grant funding and other financial endeavors to provide scholarships and financial support for students.
• Strengthen and elevate the esteem of the STEM teaching profession.
• Spotlight the critical needs addressed by STEM secondary teachers for 21st-century citizens.