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History
The Mathematics and Science Education Network
(MSEN)
Pre-College Program came into existence at Fayetteville State University in 1986.
Studies in education in North Carolina revealed the serious under representation
of minorities and females in sixth through twelfth grade mathematics and science
courses. With the support of the North Carolina General Assembly, the UNC Mathematics
and Science Education Network designed its Pre-College Program over ten years ago,
in which targeted students participate in academic enrichment activities,
and teachers associated with the program receive in-service education.
The program embodies the state's commitment -shared with public
schools, students, parents, teachers, and the private sector- to
academic excellence in education.
The MSEN Precollege Program at Fayetteville State
University, the sixth MSEN Pre-College site, was established through the efforts,
and under the direction of Dr. Leo Edwards, Jr., Director of the FSU Mathematics/Science
Education Center.
Dr. Edwards continues to provide leadership, direction and instructional services to this Program
not only as Director, but equally as well, seeks the necessary funding for its
continuation.
Project activities are supported through grants and private donations.
Funding sources for this Program has been provided by Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, Inc., National
Science Foundation, The North Carolina General Assembly, the Department of Energy,
and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); with current funding being
provided by the North Carolina General Assembly, NASA and Burroughs-Wellcome, Inc.
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Goals
- Increase the enrollment of historically under represented students
(minorities and females) in college-preparatory advanced
mathematics and science courses.
- Increase the pool of graduates from North Carolina high schools
who are prepared to pursue careers in mathematics and
science-based fields.
- Encourage students to consider careers in mathematics,
science, technology, engineering, and education.
- Improve students' self-esteem and leadership skills.
- Increase student exposure to outstanding role models and
rewarding future careers.
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Services to Students
- Academic Enrichment classes, offered daily at each
middle/junior high school participating in the Precollege
Program.
- The Saturday Academy, a 16- to 20-week program, to
further develop skills in mathematics, sciences
English/Communication, and computer science.
- Summer Scholars Program, a four to five-week session of
math/science projects, computer training, problem solving
exercises and accelerated English courses, including exposure to
college/university professors as mentors.
- Parent involvement in PIE (Parents Involved For Excellence)
Clubs. Parents are encouraged to participate in seminars and
workshops, such as Family Math/Science and Saturday
Academy, for the purpose of becoming more involved in the
education of their children.
- Math/Science Competitions that allow students to create and
design their own mathematics, science or engineering projects
and compare their work in competitive settings locally,
regionally, and statewide at the annual MSEN Pre-College Day.
- Students Leadership Skills developed through Precollege
Program Clubs, Academic Chapters for Excellence (ACE),
workshops and leadership retreats.
- Academic Enrichment Tutoring, in mathematics and science,
by university students, peers, and professionals.
- Independent Study Groups to help students study and learn
together, building peer academic support groups.
- Role Models Speakers and Academic Field Trips to
expose students to the world of people and work, and career
option.
- Academic, University and Career Counseling to guide
students toward educational and career objects.
- Recognition Awards given at End-of-the-Year Banquets to
Precollege students who maintain at least a B-plus average.
- SAT/PSAT test taking preparation.
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Must agree to the program's mandatory attendance requirements.
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