Frequently Asked Questions

What is E=mc²?
The program name, E=mc², stands for Educating Middle-grades Teachers for Challenging Contexts. It is a Transition to Teaching program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, designed to train midcareer and early retiree mathematics and science professionals as middle-grade teachers for high-need schools. With its academic components thoroughly integrated with field-based experiences, E=mc² provides a streamlined certification process to teach middle school students in Pennsylvania.

What is the academic component of the course?
Program participants will take, over the course of 4 semesters (including two summer semesters), 7 courses taught by Temple University faculty. This curriculum includes two 3-credit courses that link mathematics or science, respectively, with theories of teaching and content-specific strategies aimed at the needs of middle school students. Other courses will explore the organization of middle schools, middle-level child development, and how to respond to the needs of individual students. A capstone course will provide a vehicle for E=mc² participants to synthesize their learning and reflect on their experiences in the program.

What is the field component of the course?
All of the coursework will be accompanied by field work in cooperating schools. This component of the program provides for progressively more involved participation in classroom teaching, beginning with observation in the first semester, followed by one-on-one tutoring, small group instruction, and occasional whole-class instruction in the second semester. Participants will progress to student teaching in the third and fourth semesters. E=mc² participants will be supported in their teaching by at least two master teachers and their cohort of E=mc² novice math and science teachers.

What qualifications are required for prospective teachers of mathematics?
Applicants should have a bachelor's degree and strong background in mathematics, with at least 15 credits in college-level mathematics, including calculus, algebra, Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry, linear algebra, and number theory.

What qualifications are required for prospective teachers of science?
Applicants should have a bachelor's degree and a strong science background in, for example, chemistry, biology, physics, or earth sciences, and, at least 18 credits of college-level science courses with their associated laboratories.

Are there other considerations for program admittance?
The selection process will focus on the applicants' prior academic performance, relevant work experience, and potential as classroom teachers. Significant weight will be given to letters of reference and the applicants' statements of goals. Applicants will be required to pass the Praxis I and II standardized examinations and submit their scores. The Praxis I test measures basic academic skills; the Praxis II test measures general and subject-specific knowledge and teaching skills, and will be used by Temple faculty to individualize E=mc² participant's program.

Is there any financial support for participants in the program?
Yes! E=mc² will provide participants with a $5,000 partial tuition subsidy.

Can I keep my current job while participating in E=mc²?
In the first 2 terms, yes-provided you have the flexibility to attend some daytime classes and can fully participate in student teaching.

Where and when can I apply?
Online applications are now available and will be accepted through April 2009. Successful applicants will be notified in May and June. Go to http://www.temple.edu/education/emc2

What is my obligation to the program?
Candidates accepted into the E=mc² program are required to teach in a public school for 3 years in one of our partner districts, Philadelphia, Harrisburg, or Chester-Upland. Candidates that do not fulfill this agreement will be required to reimburse the E=mc² program for tuition and books received.

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