The Burroughs Wellcome Fund in Durham, North Carolina, has announced a five-year, $875,000 grant to launch an awards program in partnership with the North Carolina State Board of Education that will support and enhance the work of science and mathematics teachers in the state.

The Career Awards for Science and Mathematics Teachers will recognize five teachers in the North Carolina K-12 public school system who demonstrate solid knowledge of science or mathematics and have outstanding performance records in educating children. Each recipient will receive $175,000 over five years, or $35,000 per year, along with opportunities for professional development and collaboration with master science and mathematics teachers who will serve as mentors.

"These awards will help develop the careers of the professionals who instruct the future leaders of our communities," said BWF president John Burris. "By using science and mathematics as a benchmark, we hope to encourage the advancement of the teaching profession."