Center for Science & Mathematics Education

Towson University

8000 York Road

Towson, MD  21252

t.  410-704-2532

f.  410-704-3959

Dear Principal:

This letter is to acquaint you with the Maryland Educators’ Summer Research Program (MESRP), an innovative partnership between business, industry, and the University System of Maryland.  The MESRP coordinates summer research internships and follow-up outreach activities for middle and high school science, mathematics, and technology teachers who have previously graduated from the Governor's Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Technology, or another comparable professional development program.  A teacher from your school has expressed interest in this program and wishes to apply for a 2004 research internship.  The teacher will request your signature on his/her application;  your signature indicates your support of the teacher's endeavors with regard to the internship program.  

Teachers selected as Interns will participate in a summer internship in a Maryland research facility for a period of six to twelve weeks.  In most cases, experienced teachers will be paired with preservice teachers who are participating in the Maryland Collaborative for Teacher Preparation Program, which provides intensive hands-on undergraduate training in mathematics and science to future teachers attending University System of Maryland institutions.

The goals of the program include enhancing teachers' technical skills and scientific knowledge, acquainting teachers with a variety of scientific disciplines, exploring the interrelationship between mathematics and science, and developing master teachers who will serve as a resource to other mathematics and science teachers and students. 

Following the internship, Interns will develop curriculum and hands-on activities to be shared with other teachers through inservice training, workshops, and conferences.   This emphasis on “outreach” begins during the summer and continues throughout the following academic year.

During a time when public attention is focused on the need for authentic, inquiry-based, hands-on learning, students and teachers alike will benefit from the knowledge, enthusiasm, insights and resources gained through this innovative internship opportunity.  If you have questions regarding the Maryland Educators’ Summer Research Program, please feel free to call me at 410-704-2532.

Thank you in advance for supporting this teacher!

Sincerely,

Sherry McCall Ross

MESRP Coordinator