The Math and Science Teacher Initiative (MSTI) at CSU Bakersfield is a dynamic scholarship program designed to promote and support the success of current credential students in becoming effective and innovative math and science teachers.
We are future math and science educators, we are dedicated to equity in STEM Education, we are MSTI scholars!
About the Initiative
Within the next 10 years California is projected to need over 33,000 mathematics and science teachers. The demand for qualified and credentialed teachers in these fields presents a challenge to California’s education system as access to highly qualified mathematics and science teachers is imperative to closing the achievement gap.
In response to this challenge, The California State University (CSU), who is the state’s largest educator of mathematics and science teachers, committed to increase the number of qualified teachers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to approximately 1,000 teachers annually.
Why be a part of this initiative?
CSU campuses give attention to preparing mathematics and science teachers who will strive to implement California Common Core Standards in Mathematics (CCCS-M) and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The incorporation of this information has resulted in CSU prepared teachers becoming leaders of reform and instituting high-quality curriculum based on these standards in underserved schools.
- 84.5% of CSU graduates taught in schools with one fourth or more of students are in poverty and of that 63% of s taught in schools with one half or more of students are in poverty.
- 57% of CSU graduates taught in schools that had not had teachers credentialed in mathematics and science
- Many of the schools CSU graduates chose to teach at had significantly low mathematics achievement rates
The CSU is producing teachers who are reducing the gap in access to qualified educators and contributing to improving the achievement rate in underserved schools and high need fields.
Information cited from: The CSU Mathematics and Science Teachers Initiative
How to Apply
Scholarship awards are not based on financial need and the award availability/amount vary by semester.
Eligibility Requirements
Currently enrolled in CSU Bakersfield's Single Subject Math or Science Credential program or hold a preliminary credential and adding a foundational math or science authorization, including those adding the Computer Science Authorization.
For those applying to the Single Subject Credential Program, please review the Subject
Matter Competency information.
CSU Bakersfield does not offer its own CSET prep at this time but does recommend the
online prep course through CSU Fresno. There is a Test Prep Resource Guide for free and low cost options to preparing to meet subject matter competency which
is a program admission requirement for the Single Subject Credential program.
Computer Science Supplementary Authorization (CSSA) Completers
Introductory Computer Science Supplementary Authorization (CSSA) Completers may be reimbursed for their CSSA application submitted to CTC.
Please submit a copy of your CTC application receipt to the submittal portal: CSSA Reimbursement Submittal Portal.
Community Partners
Kern County Math Council (KMCC)
Mission
The Kern County Math Council is a professional organization of TK-College educators
dedicated to strengthening our local mathematics community.
Vision
The Council's vision is to connect the mathematics community of Kern County by providing
opportunities where educators are empowered to grow and share professionally.