Chapter 9: Laboratory Schools to Support the Preparation of Uteach Preservice Teachers

Replicating the UTeach STEM model can create challenges for smaller universities. The most significant challenge is funding to ensure the sustainability of the program once initial grant funds are exhausted. Traditional university funding formulas can be problematic for smaller specialized teacher preparation programs due to essential program elements that require investment. These elements include the hiring of Master Teachers to support preservice teachers in their coursework and clinical experiences, as well as securing adequate numbers of Mentor Teachers and Cooperating Teachers for clinical placement sites implementing inquiry-based instructional strategies in the teaching of mathematics and science. To address these challenges, the University of Texas at Tyler created a STEM focused K–12 Laboratory School. The laboratory school serves as self-supporting high-fidelity placement site for UTeach clinical and apprentice teaching experiences improving learning outcomes for preservice teachers.