"I spent several years doing basic science research at Northwestern Medical School, and now I use that background to give students real-world examples of the concepts I am teaching."
— Former molecular biologist Shannon Goodwin teaches environmental science and chemistry at Von Steuben Metropolitan Science Center
"Even though the program is intense, I believe it's the best route for a mid-level career change. I'm really using my creative juices. I love teaching. It's a challenge because each child learns in a different way, but all children can learn — and it's my job to motivate and inspire them to do so."
— Darnell Garner, a former insurance salesman, teaches fifth grade at Higgins Community Academy
"Teaching is something I've always wanted to do, but I doubt I'd have given up a high-tech career if it hadn't been for this program. I investigated the regular graduate school route [to teaching], but it would have taken a very long time."
— Della Leavitt, who has degrees in mathematics and computer science and management and was an account executive for a data network company, teaches high school math and science at Von Steuben Metropolitan Science Center
"I joined NU-TEACH because I wanted an effective and respectable path to becoming a great teacher. They provided me with with the training that I needed to bring my scientific skills into the classroom so my students could experience the awesomeness that is real science. They taught me how to motivate students to achieve, foster critical thinking skills, and teach for all students to succeed. After earning my bachelor and masters degree, I wasn't going to go back and obtain another major in education for my teaching certification. I instead was looking for a sensible program that would teach me what I needed to know and that would fulfill the requirements for me to be a great teacher. NU-TEACH did that for me.
— Jeffrey Broussard teaches chemistry and physics at Carver Military Academy
"I'd like to thank Northwestern University's NU-TEACH program for teaching the method of science inquiry learning. This practice of teaching has helped me approach the classroom with great enthusiasm and has excited students to explore and develop their natural curiosity about the world around them."
— Ron Hale, who teaches science at Chicago International Charter School–Avalon, upon receiving the Golden Apple Award for Teaching Excellence
What Graduates Say