NMSI - National Math and Science Initiative
Overview
The National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the proficiency of students and teachers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in the United States. Founded in 2007 with an initial donation from ExxonMobil, NMSI's mission is to improve student participation and success in rigorous Advanced Placement (AP) courses in math, science, and English. It is based in Houston, Texas. Over the years, it has expanded its influence to over 1,800 high schools across 40 states, affecting more than 2.7 million students and 68,000 teachers.
Recent Developments
In the last two years, NMSI has undertaken several initiatives to expand and refine its impact on STEM education:
- December 2024: NMSI's CEO Jeremy Anderson reflected on building a STEM workforce, emphasizing professional development for teachers and collaborating with diverse stakeholders to ensure equitable access to STEM education.
- November 2024: A study detailed significant improvements in student achievement through NMSI's Professional Learning Services, particularly for underrepresented groups such as Black, Hispanic, and female students.
- October 2024: NMSI received a 10-year contract with the U.S. Department of Defense as part of a cooperative agreement, providing $190 million to enhance STEM education nationwide.
- July 2024: A $250,000 grant from TC Energy was announced to enhance STEM leadership training in Virginia, impacting about 300 teachers across the state.
- July 2023: NMSI received additional funding from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation for its New Teacher Academy, supporting the training of first-year STEM teachers.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2007 |
| Headquarters | Houston, Texas, USA |
| Founders | ExxonMobil (initial funder) |
| Revenue | Data not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Data not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | ExxonMobil, Texas Instruments, among others |
| Industry | Education |
| Number of Employees | 51-200 |
Early History
The National Math and Science Initiative was founded in response to declining performances in math and science education in the U.S. With generous backing from ExxonMobil (a $125 million initial investment), the organization modeled its programs after successful initiatives in Texas aimed at increasing participation in AP courses. By 2010, NMSI had spread to schools across 26 states, using summer training sessions for teachers and financial incentives to encourage both educators and students to engage more deeply in AP courses.
Company Profile and Achievements
NMSI's business model revolves around its comprehensive training programs that focus on improving STEM education outcomes:
- College Readiness Program: A flagship initiative designed to increase student enrollment and success in AP courses through teacher training, student incentives, and broadening the pool of participants.
- Laying the Foundation: Provides educators with resources and training for teaching STEM subjects effectively from as early as the third grade.
- UTeach Expansion: Collaborative efforts with universities to streamline the process of becoming a certified STEM teacher.
- Over the years, schools participating in NMSI programs have seen significant increases in AP exam pass rates, often achieving twice the national average.
Current Operations and Market Position
Today, NMSI remains a pivotal player in the education sector, continuing its mission to improve STEM education across underserved communities. Its strategic partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense and other educational stakeholders reinforces its influence and sustainability in educational reform. The organization's approach to training focuses on addressing gaps in teacher preparation and expanding access to high-quality educational resources nationwide.
Conclusion
The National Math and Science Initiative plays a vital role in enhancing the educational landscape of the United States, particularly in STEM fields. Its collaborative efforts with governmental and educational institutions continue to create positive change, ensuring that students, regardless of background, have the opportunity to pursue and excel in STEM disciplines. Looking ahead, NMSI’s enduring aim is to nurture a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.