Thinking About Changing Careers? What About Teaching?

Science and math teachers are in demand.

The demand for science and math teachers continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment for high school and middle school teachers is expected to increase by 6 per cent from 2014-2024, with a median income of more than $56,000. The University of Findlay has received grant funding from the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program of the National Science Foundation to assist individuals who have a bachelor’s degree but want to earn teaching credentials.
Through the ATOMS Scholars program, those who have a degree in science or mathematics from an accredited, four-year institution are eligible for a $14,000 scholarship to complete a one-year licensure program at UF. (UF coined the term “ATOMS,” which stands for “Acquiring Teaching Opportunities in Mathematics and Science.”)
Applicants to the program must also agree to teach for two years in a school serving low-income students.
According to Julie McIntosh, Ed.D., dean of the College of Education, there’s a possibility that ATOMS Scholars could qualify for an additional $4,000 through a National TEACH grant. TEACH grant recipients must serve as a full-time teacher for at least four academic years within eight years after completing, or otherwise discontinuing enrollment in the program(s) for which they received TEACH grant funds.
“This is a great opportunity for people in industry who want to change to a rewarding career in the public school system,” said Bethany Henderson-Dean, Ph.D., chair of the Natural Sciences Department. There is also an undergraduate option where students take their senior year and one year of graduate courses at UF. Students receive a $10,000 scholarship and $1,500 for a teaching assistantship as seniors. During their graduate year, they receive $14,000 and are eligible for the TEACH grant for both years. Upon completion of the program, ATOMS scholars are eligible for an AYA teaching license (grades 7-12) in either math or life science.
For more information on the ATOMS Scholars program, contact Henderson-Dean at henderson-dean@findlay.edu, or visit findlay.edu and search “ATOMS.