STEP has had a major
impact on the recruitment, and the retention through graduation, of a core
group of undergraduates from Native American communities now certified
to teach K-12 mathematics and/or science. Prior to the project,
5 of Montana’s 1500 mathematics and science teachers were Native American.
By the end of the project in 1998, 11 Native Americans had graduated with
certification to teach mathematics or science, with 77 more working toward
secondary SMET certification at the tribal college and university campuses.
During STEP, 67 Native American students obtained elementary education
certification (up 40% compared to the 5 years preceding STEP), with 121
more still making progress toward certification at the tribal college and
university campuses.