MSUTeach helps to alleviate state’s teacher shortage
Morehead State’s MSUTeach program is helping provide impactful educators for the region and state. The program offers students the opportunity to complete a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) field of study within four years while earning a teacher certification.
MSUTeach students gained real-world classroom experience in coordination with master teachers Diane Johnson and Mary Beth Armstrong.
One presentation highlighted the work of apprentice teachers Courtney Bowling and Kristin Thacker, who taught math at Rowan County Senior High School. Noah Smith, another apprentice teacher, taught biology at Montgomery County High School and submitted his presentation but could not attend the showcase due to work commitments.
Bowling and Thacker summarized their semester as they became fully responsible for their classrooms, built relationships with students, developed, and implemented multiple instructional units, and completed all the tasks of a regular teacher. Their advice regarding best practices and tips for succeeding in the classroom resonated with participants.
"All three of our graduating apprentice teachers have accepted full-time positions in schools in the MSU service region," Armstrong said. "Their mentor teachers and school principals praised how well prepared they are and the positive impact they are having on student learning."
In addition to Master Teachers Johnson and Armstrong, Dr. David Long, director of MSUTeach; Dr. Will Tidwell, assistant professor of mathematics; Dr. Michele Cudd, assistant professor of education; and Dr. Wilson González-Espada, professor of physics and science education, supported the program with instruction on STEM content and education skills. Last year, MSUTeach showcased student accomplishments at a special event to reveal their findings and reflections as classroom teachers.
"Given the shortage of highly qualified science and mathematics teachers in the state, their expertise has been essential in preparing highly sought-after high school educators in Eastern Kentucky," Armstrong said.
The MSUTeach Program, part of the Volgenau College of Education, continually recruits students interested in teaching science and mathematics and making a difference as high school teachers.
For more information on MSUTeach, please email Diane Johnson at mdjohnson6@moreheadstate.edu or Dr. Timothy L. Simpson, chair of the Department of Teacher Education, at tl.simpson@moreheadstate.edu.
To learn more about MSU's College of Education and its programs, email ad.miller@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2845.
