State Expands University Partnerships for Math, Science Education

Nashville , TN – Governor Phil Bredesen and Education Commissioner Lana Seivers announced today 44 Tennessee school systems will receive up-to-date, research-based training in math and science content and teaching strategies through partnerships with area universities. The Department of Education recently awarded Mathematics and Science Partnership Grants to East Tennessee State University , Lee University , Middle Tennessee State University , Putnam County and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville to work with high-needs districts over the next three years. Districts selected for the partnership each serve 10,000-plus students or have at least 20 percent economically disadvantaged students.

“I firmly believe math and science skills will be vital for today’s students to succeed in a technology-driven world,” Governor Phil Bredesen said. “We must continue to invest resources in our teachers to ensure they have the knowledge to prepare students for a bright future in a changing world.”

Each university will hold a two-week summer institute for teachers in participating school districts as well as follow-up training during the school year. Tennessee ’s partnerships have served approximately 957 teachers to date. With the new grants, 11 partnerships will be operating this year.

“Governor Bredesen has helped make math and science education a priority in Tennessee from emphasizing these subjects for the Governor’s schools to launching a residential math and science high school. Such initiatives provide needed challenges and enrichment for top-performing students,” Education Commissioner Lana Seivers said. “These partnerships help ensure all Tennessee students have access to quality instruction in these important areas.”

Tennessee has participated in this $450 million competitive grant program since the 2003-04 school year. The latest grant recipients will receive more than $5 million over the next three years.

A list of participating universities and schools is included below. For more information, contact Rachel Woods at (615) 253-1960 or Rachel.Woods@state.tn.us .

The partnerships will involve the following entities: