Mississippi STEM Education Alliance (MSEA)
A Statewide Collaboration to Elevate STEM Teaching in Mississippi
About MSEA
The Mississippi STEM Education Alliance (MSEA) unites teachers, universities, districts, and industry partners to strengthen mathematics and data literacy teaching across the state. Through the National STEM Teacher Corps, we recognize and support exceptional educators who lead professional learning, mentor colleagues, and inspire the next generation of STEM learners.
Who We Are
The MSEA is a five-year statewide initiative led by the Center for Mathematics and Science Education at the University of Mississippi, funded by the NSF’s National STEM Teacher Corps Pilot Program, and involving participation from school districts, nonprofits, and industry partners. Together, we address Mississippi’s critical shortage of certified math teachers and expand high-quality STEM instruction in every region of the state.
Our Mission
To create a network of recognized teacher-leaders who design and facilitate professional development, expand endorsement pathways, and elevate the teaching profession through visibility, collaboration, and innovation.
National STEM Teacher Corps Program
Recognizing Excellence in Mississippi Classrooms
The National STEM Teacher Corps honors sixteen of Mississippi’s most outstanding mathematics teachers – one middle school mathematics, algebra, geometry, and statistics teacher from each congressional district.
These educators serve as ambassadors and facilitators, developing professional development programs, mentoring colleagues, and leading the way for a stronger, more equitable STEM education system.
Apply to Join the Corps
- A $13,500 yearly stipend paid in three equal parts to support their work and growth
- Exclusive access to professional development and the Distinguished Educators’ Summit
- Public recognition through media campaigns, press releases, etc., within their congressional district and across the state
- Collaborate with peers to develop professional sessions, gaining recognition as role models and experts
These are the expectations of a National STEM Teacher Corps Member.
- 4-year commitment: Selected teachers commit to a four-year term
- Professional Growth Colleagues (PGCs): Each Corps Member mentors a colleague annually, extending the reach of professional learning across Mississippi schools.
- Annual Activities: Attending summits and conferences; developing and implementing math endorsement programs
- Ongoing Classroom Engagement: Teachers remain active in classrooms (at least 50%) while leading STEM education initiatives and training programs
- Collaboration and Development: NSTCMs will collaborate with MSEA professionals to develop and facilitate endorsement institutes and to design a new high school course in statistics and data science.
- STEM Promotion and Leadership: Promote STEM education and recruit educators within their congressional districts
Learn more about the eligibility, application components, and selection process of aNational STEM Teacher Corps Member.
- Eligibility
- Certified middle or high school math teacher with at least five years of experience
- A teacher must currently (and in the future) be teaching in the classroom 50% of their full-time employment within a school district
- Demonstrates passion for STEM, strong pedagogical skills, and leadership potential
- Commitment to professional growth and enhancing student achievement in STEM
- Application Components
- Applicant Forms: Online Application Form and Special Resume Form
- Administration Verification: Administrators (principals, instructional coaches/specialists, and district-level administrators) confirm teaching assignments and endorse applicant participation by completing a recommendation form.
- Selection Process
- Applicants will be evaluated with a rubric, and top candidates will be required to participate in a place-based interview (at your school) for final selection.
- Sixteen outstanding math educators will be selected to be a part of the National STEM Teacher Corps Pilot Program
- Four educators per Mississippi Congressional District
- One per Content Area in each district: Middle School Math, Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics
- Four educators per Mississippi Congressional District
Let's Get In Touch!
Dr. Johnathan Hill, MSEA Program Coordinator
Email: msea@olemiss.edu | Phone: 662-915-6621
Location: Center for Mathematics and Science Education - University of Mississippi