This project, developed under the leadership of Florida A&M University (FAMU), establishes the Florida Comprehensive State Center for Minorities in Science & Technology. Cooperating institutions and organizations, in addition to the University include the following: Bethune-Cookman College, Edward Waters College, Florida Memorial College and Miami-Dade Community College (which are all minority institutions); the FAMU/Industry Cluster; Dade, Duval and Leon School Districts; and, the Florida Department of Education. Figures on the minority enrollment in the cooperating colleges and universities show a total of 42,500 students (Black and Hispanic), which is 74% of the total enrollment in those institutions. Minority enrollment in the targeted school systems is 250,000 (Black and Hispanic), representing 60% of the total enrollment. The Center is developing, and implementing programs designed: to identify and track academically promising minority students who demonstrate a propensity for learning mathematics and science; to improve the quality of mathematics and science instruction received by minority students in Florida; to improve academic achievement of minority undergraduate students enrolled in science, mathematics and engineering programs; and, to increase the number of Florida minority students who earn graduate degrees in science, mathematics and engineering. A triumvirate of community, government, and business are engaged in collaborative efforts to deliver these programs through five regional centers affiliated with the cooperating minority institutions listed above. In its first year of operation, the Center is expected to serve 1,100 students (Grades 4-12), 440 undergraduates, 190 precollege teachers, 100 college faculty, and 30 school counselors. The organizational structure of the Center involves an Executive Board, a National Advisory Council, Public and Private Sector Allies, with activities centered in the five regional centers, each of which is in turn affiliated with school districts and local organizations. The Center is implementing a data-based student reporting and tracking system to monitor student progress and success over time. Center programs include activities for both pre-service and in- service teachers, student-focused activities for elementary, middle and high school students, high school to college transition programs, undergraduate programs at the freshman and sophomore level, and undergraduate research participation. Workshops for parents and counselors are also provided. In addition, a National Conference on Strategies for Increasing the Pool of Minority Science and Mathematics Teachers will be held during the second, third, fourth,
