Transforming Educators and Schools: STEM Teaching Fellows Program Accepting Applications

The STEM Teaching Fellows program is transforming STEM learning in classrooms and schools through a team-based, professional development program. Applications are now open to join the next cohort.

For the last decade, the STEM Teaching Fellows program has empowered educators to transform learning in their classrooms and lead across their schools. By strengthening individual teaching practice and building collaborative school teams, the fellowship prepares participants to become leaders and advance high-quality STEM learning. 

And the program is now looking for the next cohort.

Over two academic years and three summers, Fellows participate in 250 hours of professional development in STEM instructional practice and teacher leadership. This includes summer learning on campus at the University of Notre Dame and virtual coaching throughout both school years.

“We want our Fellows to develop their identity as a transformational STEM teacher leader,” says Gina Svarovsky, Interim Director of the Center for STEM Education at the Institute for Educational Initiatives. “This means not only learning how to be a leader, but also finding opportunities to hone these skills and apply them in practice. Achieving that level of transformation requires meaningful self-reflection. Our program provides the framework needed to support that personal and professional journey.” 

The structure of the STEM Teaching Fellows program sets it apart from other professional development opportunities. Applicants must apply to the program as part of a team of 3-5 teachers from the same school, each teaching at least one STEM-related course in the middle grades (4th-8th grade). 

Because they are part of a school-based team, Fellows form a trusted local support network for one another as they bring new approaches to their classrooms. More importantly, they collectively generate the momentum needed to drive and sustain a lasting, school-wide STEM learning culture. 

Each cohort of Fellows benefits from the program's close-knit community, which includes cycles of instructional coaching and collaborative work within and across school teams. This provides support to participants as they navigate their unique school contexts, giving them a chance to discuss classroom practice and ways to effect change across all levels of their school community.

"The biggest change I’ve seen since joining the program is a renewed sense of energy and excitement in our school,” says Matt Burrill, Cohort 7. “We still have challenges as a school, problems that we'll need to solve in 3 years, 5 years, 10 years. But we have a real sense as a school that we have the tools to solve these problems and that we know where we're going."

The application cycle for the next cohort (beginning Summer 2027) is now open. Know of a STEM teacher or school who might be a good fit for the program? Visit the program’s application portal to learn more or pass on the information.