Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy

Today, in fields like medicine, computing and energy, the U.S. needs more brilliant young minds than ever before. Yet, as the need for brainpower grows, the number of our nation’s young people pursuing careers in these areas is decreasing. Fortunately, we believe this trend can be reversed, which is why we partnered with professional golfer Phil Mickelson and his wife Amy to launch the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy in 2005.

Each summer, 600 third- through fifth-grade teachers from school districts across the country attend the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy. The Academy offers a five-day program, with camps in New Jersey, Texas and Louisiana, designed to provide third- through fifth-grade teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to motivate students to pursue careers in science and math.

"As someone who uses math and science every day in my career, I recognize the importance of encouraging children’s interests in math and science and equipping educators with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the classroom," said Phil Mickelson. "The Academy is an opportunity for teachers to share best practices with colleagues and pick up tools to positively impact the science and math education students receive."

Two of the leading teacher-training organizations in the U.S., Math Solutions Professional Development, founded by Marilyn Burns, and The National Science Teachers Association, design the curriculum, provide instructors and manage the daily activities and logistics of the Academy.

Since 2005, more than 3,000 educators from around the country have attended the Academy. To learn more about how teachers can be nominated and apply, visit www.sendmyteacher.com.