Program Type: Professional Learning Fellowship (1 Year)
Location: University of Pennsylvania / Philadelphia Schools
Eligibility: SDP Algebra 1 Teachers (8th & 9th Grade)
Compensation: $3,000 Stipend + 3 Grad Credits
Status: Cohort 1 (Closed) | Cohort 2 (2026-27) & Cohort 3 (Opening Soon)
Overview of the Opportunity
The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (Penn GSE), in partnership with the School District of Philadelphia (SDP), has launched a groundbreaking Algebra 1 Fellowship. Funded by a generous $5 million investment from the Neubauer Family Foundation, this initiative aims to transform how mathematics is taught in Philadelphia.
This fellowship is designed specifically for 8th and 9th-grade Algebra 1 teachers. It provides a unique mix of financial support, graduate-level education, and practical coaching to help teachers master the Illustrative Mathematics curriculum.
What You Will Earn (Benefits)
This program values your time and expertise. Upon successful completion of all fellowship components, participants receive:
- Financial Stipend: A $3,000 stipend.
- Academic Credit: 3 Continuing Education Graduate Credits from Penn GSE.
- Certification: A Certificate of Participation from Penn GSE.
- Professional Hours: 90 Act 48 Hours to support licensure maintenance.
Fellowship Structure & Time Commitment
The fellowship runs for one full academic year. It is a rigorous but flexible program designed to fit into a teacher's schedule.
1. Kick-off Summer Institute
- Duration: 4 Days (In-person at Penn).
- Time: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
- Focus: Deep dive into content knowledge and how students learn algebra.
2. Monthly Virtual PLCs
- Frequency: September through June.
- Format: 1 Hour/Month (Virtual).
- Flexibility: Multiple after-school options are available each month to accommodate different schedules.
3. Follow-Up PD Days
- Frequency: Three times per year.
- Duration: 6 Hours each.
- Scheduling: These occur during the school year (e.g., November, January, March).
Curriculum Focus: Illustrative Mathematics
The core objective of the fellowship is to bring research-based practices to life using the Illustrative Mathematics curriculum. Teachers will learn to:
- Enhance students’ conceptual understanding and procedural fluency.
- Adapt lessons to meet unique student needs.
- Use "between-session assignments" to apply new strategies directly in the classroom immediately.
Cohorts & Timeline
The program is rolling out in three distinct cohorts. Teachers can participate in one cohort only.
- Cohort 1: 2025-26 (Application Closed)
- Cohort 2: 2026-27 (Upcoming Opportunity)
- Cohort 3: 2027-28 (Future Opportunity)
Eligibility Criteria
- District: Must be a teacher in the School District of Philadelphia.
- Subject: Must be teaching Algebra 1 (typically 8th or 9th grade).
- Leadership: Limited spots are available for *school leaders* who support the teachers participating in the fellowship.
How to Apply (Plan for Next Cohort)
While the 2025 application cycle has closed, this is a multi-year grant serving up to 300 teachers. If you missed Cohort 1, you should prepare for Cohort 2 (2026-27).
Contact for Inquiries: gsepennlit@pobox.upenn.edu