Public research university leaders representing some 120 universities, including Wichita State University, pledged to address the national shortage of science and mathematics teachers in a letter presented to President Barack Obama.      

In the letter, signed by leaders from 79 public research universities or university systems, the university presidents and chancellors, including President Don Beggs of Wichita State University and University of Kansas Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little, "pledged to substantially increase the number and diversity of high-quality science and mathematics teachers we prepare, and to build better partnerships among universities, community colleges, school systems, state governments, business and other stakeholders."

President Obama has launched an "Educate to Innovate" campaign to improve the participation and performance of America’s students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This campaign will include efforts not only from the federal government but also from leading companies, foundations, nonprofits, and science and engineering societies to work with young people across America to excel in science and math.

Danny Bergman and Terry Behrendt are leading the effort from WSU's College of Education. Behrendt and Bergman have prepared new grant proposals for math/science. WSU has achieved a 20 percent increase in the number of students majoring in teacher preparation for math/science within the first year. 

WSU's College of Education is one of the institutions across the United States pledging to increase the number of math and science graduates prepared for licensure. 

More information is available at http://teacherimperative.startlogic.com/smti-test/.