College of Education graduate student Francesca Henderson was selected as a 2011 Math for America San Diego Noyce Fellow by Math for America San Diego.
Now in its fourth year, Math for America San Diego is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving mathematics education in San Diego County public secondary schools by providing financial and professional support to exemplary mathematics teachers.
“Francesca was chosen from a large and competitive applicant pool,” said Barbara Edwards, the group's executive director. “She now belongs to a new corps of future teachers dedicated to improving mathematics achievement in our local schools.”
Henderson is one of six fellows selected this year. After obtaining her teaching credential at SDSU, Henderson will receive placement assistance from a partner school district to begin her mathematics teaching career in a local high-needs high school.
About Henderson
Henderson graduated in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in mathematics with an emphasis in the single subject teaching credential. As an undergraduate, Henderson provided math tutoring to primarily underrepresented middle school and college-aged students and to student groups through the Afrikan Student Union at SDSU. She is a 2006 graduate of Mira Mesa High School in San Diego. She currently resides in the City Heights area of San Diego.
“I believe algebra and geometry help students prepare for real life,” Henderson said. “In algebra, students learn skills that help them deal with money and finances. In geometry, students learn concepts about volume and measuring distances, which is applicable to real life as well. I want all my students to leave my classroom better people and better mathematicians.”
Federally funded support
Supported through a $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the five-year Math for America San Diego Noyce Fellowship provides financial and professional support to promising mathematics teachers. Fellows receive a full tuition scholarship for credential coursework at a partner university, a $15,000 annual stipend each year, individualized support from a mentor teacher and extensive professional development opportunities.
Henderson's fellowship with Math for America San Diego is just one example of how the university engages the San Diego region, a key initiative of The Campaign for SDSU. Whether it’s supporting programs that contribute directly to San Diego's growth or building academic programs to prepare for the region’s future, SDSU is an important community partner. Learn more about SDSU’s community engagement and how you can contribute.
About Math for America San Diego
Math for America San Diego is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving mathematics education in San Diego County high schools. Part of the national Math for America network, Math for America San Diego's mission is to attract, train and retain highly qualified math teachers dedicated to transforming math learning and achievement in San Diego secondary schools.
For more information, visit www.mathforamerica.org/sandiego.