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Math and Science Content Coursework

MCPS staff responsible for the early childhood and/or elementary math and science curriculum will be required to meet specific math and science content coursework. Those requirements are due within five years of employment or of initial assignment to that grade level. The following is a summary of the requirements and examples of appropriate content course work.

PLEASE NOTE: Methodology in math or science is not acceptable toward this requirement. In addition, MCPS offers MSDE-approved CPD courses for credit that fulfill these requirements. If you are eligible for renewal with the senior status exemption, you must still meet the local math and science requirements if needed. Those with senior status are not exempt from these requirements.

Number of Credits Needed

 

MATH

SCIENCE

ELEMENTARY

12 credits, to include algebra, geometry, and probability/ statistics

12 credits, to include biology and 2 courses in the physical sciences (Or a 4 shrs physical science course with a lab)

EARLY CHILDHOOD (N-3) AND SPECIAL EDUCATION (N-8)

6 credits, to include probability/ statistics

10 credits, to include biology and physical science

 

Acceptable Math Content Course Work

Algebra

  • College Algebra Courses
  • Elements of Math 1
  • Intro to Modern Math 1
  • Survey of College Math 1

Geometry

  • College Geometry Courses
  • Elements of Math 2
  • Intro to Modern Math 2
  • Survey of College Math 2

Probability and/or Statistics

  • Any Probability and/or Statistics Course
  • Education Research
  • Quantitative Research
  • Testing and Evaluation
  • Test and Measurement

 

Acceptable Science Content  Course Work

Biology-Any Biological Science

Chemistry/Physics – Any Physical Science

  • Anatomy
  • Animal Biology
  • Biology
  • Botany
  • Cell Biology
  • Ecology
  • Environmental Science
  • Evolution
  • Genetics
  •  Life Science
  • Microbiology
  • Zoology
  • Astronomy
  • Chemistry
  • Physical Science
  • Physics
  • Earth Science
  • Geology
  • Meteorology
  • Oceanography

 

Alternative Testing Options

MSDE Approved CPD Courses Offered by MCPS

MCPS Employment Contingency CPD Course Offerings

Contingency
CPD Number
Course Title
Credits(shrs.)

Biology

SC-59

Understanding & Instructing Life Sciences/Next Generation

3

Physical Science

SC-57

Understanding & Instructing Physical Sciences/Next Generation

3

SC-58

Understanding & Instructing Earth/Space Sciences/Next Generation

3

Algebra

MA-61E

The New Algebra:  Concepts & Technology

3

Geometry

MA-60E

Discovering Geometry

3

Probability and/or Statistics

MA-55

Statistics for Elementary Teachers

3

 

MCPS employment contingencies also can be satisfied with undergraduate or graduate course work from a regionally accredited college or university. As a reminder, only graduate and CPD credits apply toward salary advancement.

How to Register for Courses

For MCPS course offerings, please access Professional Development Online (PDO) to view & register for MCPS Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses.

Additional Information

For additional information about PDO or course offerings, please visit the CPD Courses information webpage.

 

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