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Release Date: 
Monday, February 1, 2016

HFC Participates in TeachDETROIT Initiative

Henry Ford College (HFC) is now a participant in the Wayne State University College of Education’s Noyce Mathematics Fellows’ TeachDETROIT initiative. This initiative trains new mathematics teachers to work in inner-city Detroit schools.
Henry Ford College (HFC) is now a participant in the Wayne State University College of Education’s Noyce Mathematics Fellows’ TeachDETROIT initiative. This initiative trains new mathematics teachers to work in inner-city Detroit schools.

HFC is now a participant in the Wayne State University College of Education’s Noyce Mathematics Fellows’ TeachDETROIT initiative. This initiative trains new mathematics teachers to work in inner-city Detroit schools.

Dr. Deborah Zopf, who teaches Mathematics at HFC, is working with Wayne State faculty to develop curriculum for prospective elementary and middle school teachers. Additionally, Zopf is actively recruiting HFC students to participate in TeachDETROIT. To participate, students have demonstrated an interest in transferring to Wayne State to pursue an undergraduate degree in elementary education with a major in Mathematics.

Students will receive scholarships to continue their education at Wayne State. Upon graduation, they would work in Detroit schools. During their first two years of employment with the DPS, they will continue their education at Wayne State to become math specialists. They would also receive mentoring and stipends, according to Zopf.

TeachDETROIT is led by Dr. Jennifer Lewis, who is a Wayne State assistant professor of Mathematics Education. TeachDETROIT launched in early 2015 through funding of a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, with support from the Skillman Foundation in Detroit. This efforts works to prepare new teachers who are committed to urban education. Coursework is integrated with field experiences in Detroit schools. Experienced teachers with a history of successful practice in Detroit help mentor participants.

“The revitalization of Detroit depends on a revitalization of the education system. To achieve this, institutions must train quality teachers who are prepared to work with students from diverse backgrounds,” said Lewis. “We are very fortunate to have Dr. Zopf and HFC as our partners in this project,” she added.

For further information about TeachDETROIT, contact Zopf at 313-845-6430 or via email at dzopf@hfcc.edu. You may also contact Lewis at 313-577-1765 or jmlewis@wayne.edu.