US college offers course for aspiring teachers in India

“We certainly have a lot of confidence that there is a real interest in India to take advantage of this programme,” said Reiff,hoping that the students’ training will also be in demand in India.

The programme was also designed with American needs in mind. Maths and Science,particularly at the secondary level,are among critical shortage areas for teachers in Maryland and the nation,and the state brings in a greater number of new teachers in those subjects than it produces each year,he said.

The ways in which school districts end up filling some positions — seeking career-changers from the professional world or teachers trained abroad – “leave some big gaps in terms of teacher preparation,” Reiff said. “That’s what we’re committed to doing.

“It’s clear that this need exists in Maryland and,again,in many states,” Reiff said,adding that the programme does not guarantee employment here. “The ramifications are not just about having teachers in high school,but preparing students to go to college and major in those areas,” he said.

The first group of students,who could come from various fully accredited Indian universities,is expected to start at the college in January,Reiff said.

Earlier this month,accepted students began a programme at Mar Athanasios College to help familiarise them with American English,and prepare them for the realities of working with US students and for a standardised test teachers must take,called the PRAXIS,Reiff said.

Due to the critical need for science and math teachers,successful completion of the programme increases the likelihood that the Indian students will be able to find teaching employment in Maryland and other states,he said.