EducateME

Maine Math and Science Teacher Excellence Collaborative

There is a well-recognized shortage at the state and national levels of qualified math and science teachers. There is also a need to ensure the quality of mathematics and science instruction for for pre-service mathematics and science teachers. In 2000, The Maine Math and Science Teacher Excellence Collaborative (MMSTEC) was awarded a 5-year National Science Foundation Grant of 4.9 million dollars to explore ways to accomplish these goals.

Axon was retained by MMSTEC to assist in achieving their primary goal: recruiting new math and science teachers. Working with a committee of six principal investigators, Axon planned and executed the following:

• Coordination of market research including focus groups.


• Development of an overall identity of the project (to replace MMSTEC).


• Development of print and radio advertising.


• Web site design and development.


• Development and production of ad specialties.


• Coordination, publicity and follow-up to campaign launch.


• Media buying and PSA placement.

Results:

The number of students currently in the 6—12 math/science teacher pipeline at the three founding MMSTEC campuses has increased 75%, rising from 237 in 1998—1999 to 415 in 2003—2004.