MATHEMATICS
The Noyce Foundation aims to improve teaching and learning in mathematics with the goal of developing conceptual understanding and high levels of mathematical skill in all students, kindergarten through algebra. Most of the Foundation’s support for improving mathematics is through the Silicon Valley Mathematics Initiative and the First in Mathematics Consortium, a Foundation-operated program to improve math teaching and learning in school districts throughout Silicon Valley.
SCIENCE
The Noyce Foundation believes that providing large numbers of young people with out-of-school, engaging, quality, hands-on science, engineering, and technology experiences will encourage more kids to pursue STEM careers and enhance general STEM knowledge. Some researchers have found that STEM engagement is a critical pillar in the triad of engagement, capacity, and continuity that are required to support a young person on the path to a STEM career. Major grants can be found at www.noycefdn.org/sciencegrants.html.
TEACHER AND SCHOOL LEADER DEVELOPMENT
The purpose of teacher and school leader development projects supported by the Noyce Foundation is to demonstrate central elements of what is required to significantly improve student achievement. Our goal is to push national thinking and understanding of what is required to recruit and train teachers and school leaders who can significant raise student achievement, particularly in urban settings. Major grants include New Leaders for New Schools and Teach for America.
LITERACY
The Noyce Foundation aims to improve teaching and learning in literacy with the goal of developing competent and creative readers and writers in all students, kindergarten through sixth grade. Most of the Foundation’s support for improving literacy is made through the Every Child a Reader and Writer Initiative, a Foundation-operated program to improve literacy teaching and learning in school districts throughout Silicon Valley.
POLICY
As a natural outgrowth of our focus on student learning and achievement, the Noyce Foundation impacts the policy arena. Our goal in policy is to act on a small number of policy issues that directly impact our priority areas. In addition, Noyce Foundation Trustees serve in leadership roles in policy advising groups in both California and Massachusetts. Major grants include support of the Rennie Center for Education Research & Policy.