| Q |
I am hoping that I can reapply and possibly be accepted at another time. Is there any way to receive feedback on my application that I might improve it next time and make myself a more desirable candidate? |
| A |
Unfortunately it is not feasible to provide a consensus statement from the Selection Committee for each application that would also be fair to all applicants. |
| |
| Q |
I am looking into the Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Project.
What is the cost(s) for the program, classes, and credits? |
| A |
There are no fees for winners of the NASA Endeavor Fellowships. |
| |
| Q |
I am a certified teacher, currently homeschooling, providing assessment and science curriculum development for several other home schools, but I do not technically teach "full time" at one location. Does this disqualify me for this program? |
| A |
There are future plans to include homeschooling in the Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Project but currently the opportunity is for full time in-service classroom teachers, pre-service educators and alternate route candidates. |
| |
| Q |
I would like to know how much time is expected to be spent for each course per week. I want to make sure that I can devote the time required to the program to gain the most out of it. |
| A |
Each course is a three (3) credit, 45-hour graduate course, generally taking a semester to complete. |
| |
| Q |
I have been teaching MS science at a private school for 25 years. My school didn’t care, and so I allowed my certification to lapse, am I still eligible For the Endeavor program? |
| A |
Yes |
| |
| Q |
Is the project interested in teachers with many years of experience, or is this program aimed at newer teachers? |
| A |
The web pages articulate the vision for the project. Both newer and veteran teachers (30+ years) have been accepted. |
| |
| Q |
When will candidates be notified whether or not we were selected for the program? |
| A |
Announcements will be made on or about December 10, 2009. |
| |
| Q |
I have my teaching license in Earth and Physical Science but I am not currently employed as a teacher. I was certified through an alternative placement program. It is my goal to find and obtain a teaching job as soon as possible. Am I eligible to apply for the Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Project, even though I am not in school, or employed as a teacher? |
| A |
Eligibility requires candidates to be teaching or enrolled in a pre-service or alternate route program. |
| |
| Q |
I've been asked to write a letter of recommendation by a worthy teacher. What address should I give in my recipient's line? |
| A |
NASA Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Project
c/o U.S. Satellite Laboratory
32 Elm Pl
Rye, NY 10580 |
| |
| Q |
I am a teacher for the Department of Defense Dependent Schools and teach overseas. Would you please let me know if I am eligible to be part of this program? |
| A |
Yes, you are eligible to be a NASA Endeavor Fellow. |
| |
| Q |
Do I need to be enrolled in a Graduate School program to be eligible? |
| A |
The eligibility requirements state that a candidate should be: 1) teaching full-time; 2) in a pre-service program (graduate or undergraduate), or 3) in an alternate route certification program. |
| |
| Q |
Will the Endeavor program continue during the 2010-2011 academic year?
|
| A |
The NASA Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Project plans to accept new Cohorts annually. |
| |
| Q |
In Section II of the Personal Statement, what specifically do you mean by "classroom teaching plan?"
|
| A |
Each educator's classroom experience and way of implementing or facilitating lessons is unique. How the Endeavor project fits with one's way of teaching is of interest. |
| |
| Q |
I have 4 years experience as a licensed middle school science teacher. I am looking for another teaching position. Would this disqualify me from applying?
|
| A |
As stated in the eligibility requirements, an educator must be in the classroom full-time. |
| |
| Q |
My concern stems from the requirement that participants complete 5 courses in 18 months. I would rather not take more than 1 course per spring/fall semester. I figured that if I took 1 course in spring 2010, 2 in summer 2010, 1 in fall 2010 and 1 spring 2011, I should be OK. I just wanted to make sure that plan was feasible and acceptable before committing myself.
|
| A |
The plan above is definitely feasible. |
| |
| Q |
I am presently highly qualified in both math and science in my state. I am teaching a new STEM course this year for our gifted students. Am I still eligible for the Endeavor project?
|
| A |
Yes |
| |
| Q |
Hello, I am from Iowa. I was wondering what the "regionally accredited college" would be that the graduate credit would be from.
|
| A |
The credits will be awarded from Adams State College in Colorado. |
| |
| Q |
I have another commitment one day of the week. What days
of the week are courses offered?
|
| A |
Between 5-6 courses per semester are offered at various times.
Endeavor Fellows register for the ones that serve their interests and
fit best with their schedules. |
| |
| Q |
I am a Middle School Earth Science Teacher as well as an AP Chemistry
Instructor at an American school overseas.I am a US Citizen and graduated
from an overseas university. I have 6
years experience as a Science Teacher (full time). I do not hold a
State certification, although I am in the process of applying for a
Florida Certification.
The school I work at is part of the Department of State Office of
Overseas Schools and has a partnership with Broward Schools.
Could I be eligible to apply for the Endeavor Science Teaching
Certificate Project?
|
| A |
Yes |
| |
| Q |
My goal is to receive the STEM certification, experience NASA, and receive credits towards my graduate degree. Who are the accredited partners and what kind of credits can I receive with the courses you currently offer? Are those credits applicable to a graduate degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Science?
|
| A |
Most of the graduate credits come from regionally-accredited Adams State College. In rare cases it is possible the credit can come from an in-state school. The credits are science education credits. Some colleges accept the courses toward graduate degrees. This is handled on a case by case basis. The 5 courses can be put toward a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of West Florida. Other opportunities that are developing will be announced over the next 6 months. To be clear, there is no STEM certification; this is simply a certificate of completion of 15 credits of coursework. |
| |
| Q |
If I was selected for this program, it appears that you want the educator to take a sabbatical from teaching. Would salary be covered by this fellowship during this time?
|
| A |
Sabbaticals may be appropriate but not at all required. The NASA Fellowship does not fund sabbaticals; this would need to be funded by your school district. |
| |
| Q |
I am highly qualified to teach secondary science and only 10 credits away from being highly qualified to teach math. I do need course credits to renew my teaching certificate. In addition to the classes offered, could I take the required classes to become highly qualified in math?
|
| A |
Possibly. The Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Project focuses on the applications of science concepts utilizing technology. Although there are several Math and Engineering offerings and related pedagogical activities, science is the primary discipline at this time. |
| |
| Q |
Could you explain these 2 requirements in more detail, thank you.
- A statement of commitment to the Project and its objectives should you be accepted
- A statement of applicability of the Fellowship to your classroom teaching plan
|
| A |
You will want to make a clear statement on your behalf that relates to both your commitment to the Project should you be accepted and the applicability of the Fellowship and the work that you will do as it relates to your classroom teaching plan (and practice). |
| |
| Q |
I just graduated in May with my BS in geology and certification in Elementary Education and Earth Science. I am employed with a school division to teach Earth Science, but my first year has not yet begun. My principal may not have enough experience with me yet to write the letter. Could I substitute a letter from a professor under whom I've taken an education course or someone similar in place of my principal's letter? |
| A |
Yes |
| |
| Q |
Does an educator (in-service, pre-service or alternative route) from a more affluent school district have an equal chance at getting chosen as one from an underserved district?
|
| A |
Each candidate is evaluated individually. In many cases, candidates from districts that do not primarily serve underrepresented student populations were accepted into Cohort 1. The same criteria is being used for Cohort 2. The project encourages all to apply, recognizing the application process is extensive. The project does have its objectives; there is a very, very slight advantage to candidates in schools from an underserved district. |
| |
| Q |
Do alternate-route educators have a better chance at getting chosen then those who are teaching full-time?
|
| A |
No. Cohort 2 is expected to include a balanced representation of in-service, pre-service and alternate-route educators.
|
| |
| Q |
If I apply to be in the first cohort (Cohort 1) and am not accepted, am I automatically considered for the second cohort (Cohort 2)? If so, when will I find out?
|
| A |
Yes. Decisions are scheduled to be announced around December 10, 2009. |
| |
| Q |
Is there a stipend with the NASA Fellowship?
|
| A |
The NASA Endeavor Certificate Project includes all courses, fees and graduate credit. In addition, a $240 stipend is provided to pay for additional resources. |
| |
| Q |
What if I need more than 5 courses to be deemed highly qualified in my state?
|
| A |
In cases where a state requires more than 15 graduate credits to achieve highly qualified or another alternative status, the Fellowship will include additional costs associated with an additional course or courses that may be necessary. |
| |
| Q |
I participated in another NASA-sponsored initiative and received graduate credit. Will I be able to apply this toward the requirements of the Certificate in STEM?
|
| A |
If you have successfully completed a course(s) in affiliation with the ESSEA (Earth System Science Education Alliance) program, one course will potentially apply toward the award of the STEM Certificate. Additionally, if you are a certified teacher of NASA-sponsored Project 3D-VIEW; NASA and NOAA-sponsored Signals of Spring -ACES; or NSF-sponsored SPRINTT, and you earned graduate credit for program implementation, you will be eligible to apply the course toward the completion of the NASA Fellowship requirements. |
| |
| Q |
I am retiring at the end of this school year after 25 years and then I am interested in returning part-time to education in some form. My question is - would I still be eligible to participate if chosen?
|
| A |
Since the program involves changing teaching practices, the Fellowships will be awarded to full-time educators or teachers on sabbatical through the 2010-2011 school year. |
| |
| Q |
May I submit more than two letters of recommendation?
|
| A |
No. |
| |
| Q |
By day I am a software engineer, but on nights and weekends, I teach robotics to both kids and adults to get more kids interested in robotics, programming, engineering. Am I eligible to apply?
|
| A |
The Fellowship is designed for full-time formal educators including pre-service and alternative-route and does not currently serve informal educators. |
| |
| Q |
Should I complete the program, what degree will be conferred? Will finishing the program qualify me to receive a teaching certificate in all states?
|
| A |
The NASA Endeavor Fellowship is not currently offered as a degree program. Fellows earn graduate credit from the Project's accredited partners. They also earn a certificate of completion for five or more courses depending on state requirements toward highly qualified status. The project is working with individual State Departments of Education with the intention that the Certificate may be applied toward state endorsements. Information on the progress will be forthcoming, although at this time completing the program does not imply that a teaching certificate will be granted. |
| |
| Q |
I am in the field of education but not a classroom teacher and not eligible to apply to take the Endeavor Certificate courses. Would it be possible to audit them?
|
| A |
The ESTCP is currently not planning to extend its services to non-educators or educators not working in the classroom. Due to space limitations in the courses, auditing will not be permitted. |
| |
| Q |
I do not teach Science, just Mathematics. Can I participate in this project?
|
| A |
Endeavor Fellows will integrate NASA information and education assets into their formal curriculum. Since the application of the science content encompasses STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education, an educator of mathematics may present an application for acceptance. |
| |
| Q |
My title is Elementary Science District Resource Teacher. I work with the teachers and students doing model lessons and professional development. I mentor teachers and work with students daily in my job, but I am not assigned a specific school or class. My job is to support teachers and help them make sure that all students are getting the best science education possible. Am I eligible to apply for the NASA Endeavor Fellowship Program?
|
| A |
Yes. |
| |
| Q |
I am currently teaching part-time science enrichment to grades K-3. I am also getting my M.Ed. in Educational Leadership with emphasis in Space Studies. I would like to apply acceptance in the program but need to know if you accept part-time educators. My ultimate goal is to return to full-time and teach science teachers at a local college or be a district level mentor.
|
| A |
Part-time educators, in general, are not eligible. Part-time educators in pre-service programs who will soon be teaching in a classroom full-time are eligible. Additionally, alternative-route, career-changing individuals preparing to teach in the classroom are encouraged to apply. |
| |
| Q |
I have taught for 19 years and am currently teaching in our high school science and computer science departments. I am also adjunct faculty for a local university where I teach the science methods for the credential program. I already have a master's degree in education and have already taken educational research courses at the graduate level. Could I still be considered?
|
| A |
Yes. |
| |
| Q |
I am a US citizen. I am licensed in NY State and have taught there for 6 years. Currently I am teaching American kids in New Delhi, India. Am I eligible?
|
| A |
Yes. |
| |
| Q |
I am already considered highly qualified in science by NCLB and the State of Kansas. Do I still have a good chance of being accepted, or are you looking more at those educators who might need to gain highly qualified status in their states.
|
| A |
Some applicants may seek additional endorsements from their state even if they are already considered highly qualified. Each state's requirements differ, but the Endeavor Project staff with NASA's Office of Education will be working with Departments of Education toward having Endeavor courses applied to endorsements. |
| |
| Q |
I am not clear about the project as far as, would those educators who are chosen for Cohort 1 be expected to be away from their current full-time teaching position in order to participate?
|
| A |
As stated in the 'What is the Time Commitment?' area of the website, full-time teachers can take up to two NASA Endeavor courses per semester. Taking sabbaticals are completely optional. Sabbatical options for cohort groups include Cohort 2 teachers taking sabbatical for Fall 2010, or Spring 2011. Courses will be offered during Summers as well. Teachers will need to spend some time in the classroom in order to meet ESTCP requirements, even during their sabbaticals. |
| |
| Q |
I teach Computer Education full-time to grades K through 8. Can I apply for a Fellowship?
|
| A |
Yes. Educators involved with science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education are eligible as they seek to enhance their careers by learning how to incorporate NASA content in instruction. |
| |
| Q |
Is this program for students of education who are completing a Secondary Education Degree in science? I will have a major in both biology and secondary education in the near future.
|
| A |
15-20% of Endeavor Fellows will be pre-service teachers. If you are in a pre-service program for 2009-2010, you would be a candidate for Cohort 2. If you will be teaching during the 2010-2011 school year, you would apply for Cohort 3, beginning in approximately January 2011. |
| |
| Q |
I do not have a strong science background. I am licensed to teach Elementary Education and Secondary English. I am currently teaching Secondary English, but recently taught in a contained elementary classroom the last 2 years. Am I a good candidate to apply?
|
| A |
Educators seeking to become highly qualified to teach science, and also to teach science, are encouraged to apply. |
| |
| Q |
Is it possible to send the application to apply by mail?
|
| A |
All submissions to the program must be submitted online. |
| |
| Q |
Would you explain more about the live sessions? Are they by satellite, on a campus, internet feed, etc...?
|
| A |
The live sessions all take place online. All one needs is a simple web browser (i.e. Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox). The audio comes from the telephone; you will dial into a toll-free number. There is a non-live, or asynchronous component to the courses as well. |
| |
| Q |
Regarding Endeavor Letters of Recommendation, will you please clarify what is meant by "top 10% of teachers in your school district"?
|
| A |
The Letter of Recommendation should address the applicant's talents. |
| |
| Q |
I am already state certified in Physics and Mathematics. I think this means that I am "highly qualified." What is the advantage to me doing this program?
|
| A |
The Project lends itself to earning graduate credit, as well as perhaps additional endorsements in areas other than those in which you are already deemed highly qualified. |
| |
| Q |
Could you provide a list of the accredited collegiate partners that will be offering the graduate credits for the NASA courses?
|
| A |
Currently partners include regionally-accredited Adams State College in Colorado. There will be others as conversations with State Departments of Education ensue. |
| |
| Q |
Are the NASA courses designated to fit within a specific science discipline (i.e. Phys 5xx or Biol 5xx, etc...)? Or, are the courses customized in such a fashion as to fit in many different boxes depending on the needs of the educator? Some K-12 educators looking to apply courses to the collegiate level need course identifiers for credentialing purposes.
|
| A |
This type of discussion is currently taking place with various State Departments of Education. The courses that include NASA content blend content with pedagogy. Customization to the courses is essential to meet various needs of Endeavor Fellows. |
| |
| Q |
I have a question about timing of the NASA Endeavor courses to mesh with my commitments to both coaching and other obligations. Can you shed light on this issue?
|
| A |
Course live sessions (4-6 per course) are planned to run at 4:00pm and 9:00pm during the school year, and during the summers at times that include 10:00am, 4:00pm, 7:00pm, and/or 9:00pm. These are all Eastern Time. |
| |
| Q |
Once accepted, Can you take more than 5 classes in 18 months?
|
| A |
At this time, there are two ways Fellows will be encouraged to take additional courses. If a state requires more credit to earn another endorsement or be deemed highly-qualified, or, the credit for the courses can be put directly toward certification, the Fellows may take additional courses. Otherwise, programmatically, the program resources will be put toward allowing more educators into the program. |
| |
| Q |
The principal at my school would like to know to whom she needs to write the letter of recommendation.
|
| A |
The letter may be written to the Selection Committee of the NASA Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Project. |
| |
| Q |
If you are a contracted employee working for any NASA Education Centers, but still a full time certified teacher in the classroom, are you eligible or does your affiliation with NASA Education make you ineligible?
|
| A |
A NASA affiliation does not make a candidate ineligible. |
| |
| Q |
In a NASA release, workshops and on-site graduate courses are mentioned. Where would these take place and when?
|
| A |
All courses for Endeavor Fellows are online. This initiative will begin in the future and specifically address a pre-service community of STEM educators. |
| |
| Q |
Applications are due November 10th. What time? |
| A |
Applications are due at 11:59:59pm on November 10th. |
