The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) Diverse Faculty Post-Grad Fellow Program is a one-year opportunity for a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino) individual who has completed their Master’s degree or Doctorate in mathematics, science, computer science, history/social science, or english/literature to gain knowledge of the inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning, work with gifted and talented students, solve real-world problems and develop the skills needed to thrive in an innovative STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and entrepreneurship space.
This program allows IMSA to:
- Diversify IMSA faculty in the short term
- Potentially diversify the IMSA campus and other residential STEM schools
- Infuse diverse perspectives into the IMSA community
- Contribute to STEM educator preparation
- Contribute to gifted/talented educator preparation
- Improve cultural competence, acceptance, and openness to diversity and promote inclusion by building relationships
Responsibilities and Development for Diverse Fellows
1st Year
- Observe at least 2 classes (various teachers and academic areas) per week
- Meet with faculty mentor(s) once per week to discuss professional growth plan
- Work with mentor on curriculum development and inquiry based learning
- Be available to students to provide academic support/tutoring approximately 5 hours per week
- Participate in IMSA’s professional learning opportunities
- Serve as a Residential Counselor, 25 – 30 hours/week
2nd Year
- Prep for and co-teach 1 section of a course per week. This will be a progressive teaching experience
- Meet with faculty mentor once per week to discuss classroom observations
- Be available to students for “office hours”/academic support approximately 3 hours per week
- Participate in IMSA’s professional learning opportunities
- Serve as a Residential Counselor, 20 – 30 hours/week
Benefits for Diverse Fellows
- Guidance, mentoring and coaching from an experienced faculty member
- Ability to improve instructional skills while gaining a better understanding of working with gifted/talented STEM students in a residential setting
- Paid fellowship position with room and board
