The proposal to the NSF was written by Dick Stebbins, professor of chemistry, who will serve as project director.
Maine also faces a teacher shortage for certain areas of science and mathematics.
An April 1999 report prepared by the MMSA concludes that of the approximately 4,000 Maine teachers of mathematics and science, over half are within twelve years of probable retirement. In addition, a 1998 study found that 33 percent of Maine mathematics and science teachers teach in subjects outside their major, compared to 27 percent nationally. This use of teachers without appropriate background in math and science is due partially to lack of qualified teachers in mathematics and the physical sciences in Maine and can lower the quality of classroom teaching in these subjects. The project participants plan to work with a recruitment consultant in designing a recruitment plan, which will be implemented for the first time in Fall, 2001. They will also gather ideas from other states that have had some experience with recruitment, coordinate with the new Maine Blue Ribbon Commission on the Recruitment and Retention of Teachers, and talk with admissions offices and education faculty at the three participating UMaine campuses.