Fellowship FAQs

Who may apply for the program?

North Carolina public school teachers at the elementary, middle and high school levels may apply.

Is this program only for math, science and technology educators?

Absolutely not! Teachers in all disciplines are encouraged to apply. Kenan Fellowships afford teachers the opportunity to work closely with professionals outside of their own content specialties. Research confirms that teachers and students benefit from an interdisciplinary approach to teaching and learning. While all projects must have a STEM focus (science, technology, engineering or mathematics), the lessons can be delivered across the content areas.

What about teachers at year-round schools?

Year round applicants may apply and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

How many years of teaching experience do I need to apply?

Because Kenan Fellows are teachers with demonstrated success, most applicants have at least three years experience.

How much time is required of me during the two-year fellowship?

• Teachers selected for the Kenan Fellowship make an annual commitment to spend two weeks in a Summer Institute for professional development and work for four additional weeks with their Mentors. The collaboration allows Fellows to gain insight into current research through discussion and observation, and to consult on the development and dissemination of the Fellow’s curriculum project.
• Teachers are required to develop a curriculum project and pilot it in the classroom during the fellowship period.
• Teachers are required to participate in several, scheduled afternoon meetings called Fireside Chats, during the two academic years of the fellowship.
• All Kenan Fellows are expected to attend and present at one designated professional conference each year.

What are the specific benefits of the Fellowship?

• Kenan Fellows receive a $10,000 stipend for the two-year fellowship. Payment is made incrementally throughout the fellowship on completion of specific benchmarks.
• Kenan Fellows receive funds each year of the two-year fellowship to cover the costs of attending the required conference to disseminate their curriculum projects.
• The program reimburses schools on a limited basis for substitute pay for the Kenan Fellow to attend program related events and conferences.
• Fellows receive six graduate credits in Curriculum and Instruction or Science Education from NC State University.
• Kenan Fellows are provided a personal laptop for use throughout the fellowship. All laptops have an extended warranty for the two-year fellowship period.

Do I have to be National Board Certified in order to apply?

No.

What leadership development opportunities are offered to me through the fellowship?

Many! Fireside Chats with policy leaders, opportunities to present at professional conferences, training in communication and organizational effectiveness, and collaboration with institutions of higher education and businesses are some examples of the regular opportunities afforded to Kenan Fellows. The program positions participants to become leaders in their schools, districts, and profession and to continue in their advocacy and leadership role upon completion of the two-year fellowship.

What is a Fireside Chat?

A Fireside Chat is an informal dialogue held with a local, state or national leader in government, education, or business. These meetings provide an excellent opportunity for Kenan Fellows to discuss their ideas and experiences with individuals who can influence public policy and help advance the teaching profession.

What does a Mentor do?

A Mentor is a distinguished professor or scientist. Each Fellow is assigned at least one Mentor who provides content coaching and support throughout the two-year fellowship. Mentors are partners in the development of the project and assist the Fellows in preparing their final product for statewide distribution. Mentors offer insights to their work, and if applicable, access to their labs and resources as well as experiences in research.

How is a Kenan Fellow paired with a Mentor?

Generally, Mentors have been designated to work with specific projects in their area of expertise prior to the application period. Teachers express an interest in a particular fellowship when they apply, and upon award of the fellowship, will be paired the Mentor associated with that project. Geographic location is a factor as applicants are considered for fellowships.

How will my work as a Kenan Fellow help other teachers?

The curriculum resources developed by the Kenan Fellows are made available to teachers statewide on several respected websites. Fellows are required to present their work to teachers and administrators at state and national professional conferences. The experience gained through the fellowship equips Kenan Fellows to serve as leaders and expert resources for their schools and school communities.

What is expected of me once I complete the two-year fellowship?

After successfully completing the fellowship, teachers become part of a networked cohort of the Kenan Fellows alumni.