Noyce Scholar Profile
Tracey Starck
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Master of Science, Mathematics Education
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades 6-8
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh, act! Program
Current academic or teaching status:
Graduate Student/Research Assistant
School and school district:
University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
Background:
I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics with a minor in history from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point and a Master of Science degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. I taught developmental math, as well as English as a Second Language, in both the technical college and university systems for five years before I was accepted into the act! Program. As a Noyce Scholar, I taught both sixth grade and tenth grade mathematics in the DC Everest School District. It was an absolutely wonderful experience. I learned so much about best practices, authentic assessment, and honoring the strengths and needs of adolescent students. I am very interested in educational research and the role reading plays in STEM education. I am currently working toward a second master’s degree in Reading Education at the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh.
Why do you want to teach:
I teach for so many reasons! I want to share my love of learning with others. I want to make a positive difference in the lives of young people and their families. And, most importantly, I want my students to have choices: to be able to follow their dreams, explore the globe, and to value themselves and the beautiful, diverse world we live in.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
For me, it is impossible to choose just one moment. However, the teaching memories that rush to mind all have to do with confidence — students realizing their own unique strengths and gifts. As educators, we must give our students both the tools and the opportunity to invest in the learning process. Confidence sparks motivation which inspires engagement; it is a powerful recipe for meaningful learning.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
I am so proud to be a Noyce Scholar. The National Science Foundation recognition is truly an honor. I have found that it opens doors in STEM fields and beyond. Furthermore, the Noyce scholarship was crucial for my family. I would not have been able to complete the program without it. I am a better teacher, a more effective researcher, and an even stronger advocate for STEM education because of the Noyce program.
