Congresswoman Heather Wilson said during a recognition luncheon Friday that UNM's College of Education is working to keep teachers in the state while inspiring children to pursue careers in math and science.
The luncheon, held in Hokona Hall, was for teachers who have successfully completed UNM's College of Education's "Mathematics and Science Teachers Academy."
The academy, which is funded through a U.S. Department of Education grant, is an effort to better educate teachers from the state of New Mexico in the areas of math and science.
Last year, Wilson helped obtain $1.17 million for the program, and this year the U.S. Congress awarded an $85,000 renewal grant in conjunction with other New Mexico education funding.
Teachers attend the academy for two consecutive summer sessions and receive stipends, materials and supplies during the school year. At that time, they are also provided with a substitute teacher for 29 days, so they can have time to share what they learned in the academy with other teachers.
"High quality teachers produce better students," said College of Education Dean Viola Florez, adding that it is important that teachers receive support to continue learning.
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During the luncheon, Florez recognized Wilson for her support with the program, calling her an advocate for teachers and children in New Mexico and presenting her with an award for her efforts.
During her acceptance speech, Wilson said that any child can have the opportunity to succeed in a strong public school system.
She also said that it is her mission, along with President Bush's, to make sure that no children or teachers are left behind in the school system.
She says the academy serves that purpose and is helping to motivate students.
"So if we can provide the support for teachers, particularly in areas where we all need to improve," she said. "We can inspire more of our kids to go into career fields that involve math and science."
Wilson also said the state needs more funding of this kind, which she is seeking from Congress through what she calls the "GI Bill for Teachers."
Under the bill, education students receive $5,000 to $10,000 merit-based scholarships. For every year the future teachers receive the scholarships, they spend that much time teaching in public schools.
"I think one of the key ways is to train them in both incoming teachers and teachers like those here who are trying to expand their skills," Wilson said of improving public education and student achievement.
She added that teacher support is vital.
"Forty percent of teachers leave the profession in the first five years without support," Wilson said.
Wilson says that the College of Education is working to keep teachers in New Mexico.
Teachers from Gallup, Santa Fe, Taos, Albuquerque, Los Lunas and Belen have participated in the program, which also has been renewed by additional congressional grants.
