In response to a question posted on Education Week‘s website about universities’ responses to the call to increase diversity of the teaching force, Ramon Goings, program coordinator for the Sherman STEM Teacher Scholars Program, wrote about the mission of the Sherman Scholars program and its efforts to address to the shortage of highly qualified STEM teachers serving in high-needs schools. “The Sherman Program provides professional development for both UMBC students and alumni who are currently teaching in school districts across Maryland and other states. In particular, our professional development is focused on developing culturally competent students. Through our partnership with Lakeland Elementary/Middle School, …