WHO WE ARE
Laying the Foundation (LTF), a division of the
National Math and Science Initiative, is a program dedicated to improving the teacher corps in the U.S. To this end, we provide effective teacher training and mentoring, rigorous classroom-ready materials, and web-based resources to improve the quality of
math,
science, and
English instruction in middle school and high school classrooms.
LTF Training equips private and public school teachers of grades 6 through 12 with the content knowledge, teaching strategies, vertically aligned materials, and assessments necessary to prepare students for AP-level coursework. Additionally, the emphasis in technology in math and science classrooms provides more relevant and engaging coursework for students preparing to enter STEM-related fields.
BUILDING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
The LTF approach begins with empowering secondary school teachers. Highly qualified Pre-AP and AP teachers are critical for efforts aimed at ensuring that students are college-ready by the time they leave high school.
According to Bill Gates' 2009 Annual Letter, "If you want your child to get the best education possible, it is actually more important to get him assigned to a great teacher than to a great school." LTF's commitment to training, mentoring, and empowering the teacher corps answers recommendations from the National Academy of Math and Sciences, the Academy of Medicine, Engineering and Science of Texas (TAMEST), and recently defined priorities for federal Race to the Top grants.