UTeach: Secondary Teacher Preparation in Science and Mathematics at the University of Texas at Austin

The UTeach Program is a joint effort of the College of Natural Sciences, the College of Education and the Austin Independent School District to recruit, prepare and support math and science teachers for the State of Texas. UTeach uses early and on-going field experiences to capture the imagination of preservice teachers and provide a foundation for more advanced pedagogical courses. With over 400 students enrolled and over 80 graduates per year, UTeach is one of the largest programs producing secondary science, mathematics, and computer science teachers in the nation. Most UTeach students are undergraduates, but around 10\% are people of many ages with strong backgrounds in mathematics or science who have decided to enter teaching. Hallmarks include: \begin{itemize} \item Four-year degree plans that enable undergraduates to obtain certification at no cost in time or money. \item Active recruitment and support including tuition reimbursement, paid internships, personal advising, and guidance by master teachers. \item Emphasis on preparing teachers who will be knowledgeable of their discipline, experienced with involving students in scientific inquiry, and practiced in employing new technologies to enhance student learning. \item A revised, streamlined professional education sequence drawing on research on learning, standards-based curricula, multiple forms of assessment, and proven strategies for achieving equity and integrating technology into math and science education. \item Program flexibility with multiple entry points (from freshman to post baccalaureate), integrated degree plans, and proficiency-based assessment, including the development of individual teaching portfolios. \end{itemize} For more information on UTeach, see \texttt{http://uteach.utexas.edu}