Mathematician Offers Solution For Getting Qualified Teachers In Math, Science Classrooms

Jim Simmons, a mathematician and retired founder of Renaissance Technologies, writes in an opinion piece for the Washington Post (11/8) that when it comes to science and math education, "too often it is the least able who teach." This, he says, is because "those who know enough math, physics or biology to properly teach these subjects in high school can get higher-paying jobs in industries" with more prestige. Simmons offers "a straightforward solution" to overcoming what he calls the "compensations gap" for math and science teachers. "Six years ago," the New York City public school system developed a pilot program called Math for America that provided "meaningful stipends to supplement salaries for new and experienced teachers," professional development courses, and "scholarship aid where required." According to Simmons, the program "created more than 300 outstanding teachers in New York" and has been duplicated in several other school systems nationwide.