Teaching STEM

Soon-to-be math and science teachers hoping for leads to jobs recently had the opportunity to meet local school district officials during a networking event sponsored by Secondary Education and the Career Center. Recruiters from throughout Orange, Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties were in attendance.

At least seven students were hired as a result of the Math and Science Teacher Recruiter Meet & Greet, and several more are being considered for substitute teaching positions, said Sean Gil, Career Center associate director.

The second annual event was held to familiarize school district representatives with the university’s teacher preparation programs and professional development efforts in math and science, said Mark Ellis, chair and associate professor of secondary education.

The math and science focus reflects Cal State Fullerton’s heightened emphasis on increasing student interest in the STEM fields — one of the universitywide initiatives for 2010-11.

Melisa Masri of Irvine participated in the event so she could meet hiring administrators in districts that she is interested in working.

“Even though I did not get a job, I am grateful to have participated since it is normally very difficult to meet the people responsible for hiring,” said Masri, who completed the foundational-level general science credential program and recently had a second interview for a position teaching middle school science.

Prior to the event, credential students could attend a Career Center workshop to prepare them for networking and interviewing with potential employers — something the center would like to expand to other academic departments.

Peter Kilmarx, vice president of human resources at Green Dot Public Schools, said the event was a “great opportunity to meet qualified candidates who are credentialed to work right away.”

Charlie Bialowas, math curriculum specialist at Anaheim Union High School District, said despite the few job openings for teachers, there is a demand for qualified secondary math teachers.

“Student teachers from CSUF realize that the language of mathematics is a tool for thinking,” he said. “They understand that culture and language play key roles in teaching and learning. The student teachers emphasize regular and active classroom activities and investigations in the form of writing, explaining and presenting that engage all students, in particular English Language Learners.”

Sept. 28, 2010