SU School of Education receives Teacher Opportunity Corps grant

SU School of Education receives Teacher Opportunity Corps grantAugust 06, 2008Patrick Farrellpmfarrel@syr.edu

Syracuse University’s School of Education has been named a recipient of a New York State Teacher Opportunity Corps (TOC) grant for 2008-11. The grant was awarded on a competitive basis to develop comprehensive programs to support and guarantee the success of 10 historically underrepresented, underserved and/or economically disadvantaged Syracuse University students in teacher preparation programs. The School of Education is one of just 14 schools or colleges across the state to receive TOC funding this year from the New York State Education Department.

“This is a very exciting opportunity for the School of Education and one that is very consistent with our desire to increase the diversity of our teachers in schools and to improve our own capacity to address issues of social justice and difference well in all our programs,” says Mara Sapon-Shevin, professor of education and TOC program principal investigator.

TOC grants are designed to respond to the critical needs for and the shortages of teachers of at-risk students-especially in urban schools-by addressing the learning needs of students at risk of truancy, academic failure or dropping out of school. TOC’s goal is to increase and encourage the participation of historically under-represented and/or economically disadvantaged individuals in teaching careers. Competitive grants are awarded to institutions that offer approved programs in teacher preparation leading to permanent certification in programs registered by the State Education Department for teacher education purposes.

TOC serves full-time undergraduate/graduate students, or part-time graduate students completing the requirements for provisional/initial or permanent/professional certification. TOC provides specialized course work to address the needs of at-risk students, coordinates supplemental field placements at low performing schools, and links graduates with mentors during the first year of teaching. TOC projects also provide support services such as counseling, academic advising and supplemental research experiences.

“The Syracuse University TOC has established formal partnerships within the University and the Syracuse City School District and many community-based organizations to support and enhance the education of all our TOC students,” says Sandy Trento, School of Education assistant dean and TOC program director.