In a recent government meeting, officials provided updates on the Noyce Teacher Fellowship Program, which aims to enhance STEM education in Clayton County. Currently, five out of seven fellows have completed their training, with the remaining two expected to finish by December. The program, a collaboration between Clark Atlanta University and local schools, offers a 13-month Master of Arts in Teaching to STEM majors at no cost, along with a $12,000 stipend during their studies and employment.

The initiative is designed to recruit and retain at least 19 STEM teachers through mentorship and training, with a commitment for fellows to work in the district for a minimum of four years post-graduation. If they fail to meet this requirement, they must repay the stipend, which is funded by government resources.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the district's focus on improving student attendance, which is seen as critical for academic success. Officials reported a 1.5 percentage point increase in attendance from August to September, with a goal to raise overall attendance from 92% to 97%. Strategies include community engagement, targeted interventions, and a new attendance tracker for students and parents.

The meeting also addressed student well-being and safety, emphasizing proactive measures and support systems in place for students facing challenges. The district has seen a significant increase in referrals for support services, indicating a growing recognition of the need for mental health resources.

Overall, the discussions underscored a commitment to enhancing educational outcomes through targeted teacher training and student support initiatives in Clayton County.