Middle and High School Math Teacher

Middle and high schools in Tanzania are looking for skilled and aspiring math educators who can turn mathematical concepts into meaningful, real‑world learning experiences.

Tanzania faces a severe and persistent shortage of middle and high school math teachers, with gaps reaching up to 50%. The main cause of this shortage is students’ poor performance in math and science, leading to fewer graduates in those subjects. Also, the students who do graduate in math and science are less likely to choose a career in teaching. This teacher deficit strains the education system, resulting in very large class sizes, inconsistent delivery of foundational math instruction, and chronically low pass rates. Many students ages 12–20 progress through school without the competency and confidence needed to succeed in advanced math or related subjects. Despite these challenges, the Government of Tanzania is actively working to improve teaching quality and expand science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning opportunities. There is an urgent need to spark an interest in STEM among students.

As a Middle and High School Math Teacher, you will play a critical role in strengthening math education at your assigned school. By modeling effective instructional approaches, and sharing practical techniques, you will help strengthen the capacity of teachers. Your efforts will inspire Tanzania’s next generation of mathematicians, educators, innovators, and problem‑solvers.

Bachelor's degree in secondary education with a concentration in math.
OR
Bachelor's degree in any discipline with secondary certification in math.
OR
Bachelor's degree in math, engineering, or computer science.
OR
Bachelor's degree in any discipline with a minor or equivalent in math.

During training, Volunteers will live in a private room within a host family’s house. Volunteers will then move to a rural community not far from the assigned middle or high school. Housing accommodations may range from simple two‑room homes to modest walk‑up apartments. Amenities vary by site, and while some locations offer running water and electricity, access is not guaranteed. Available transportation includes taxis, bajajs (three-wheeled transport), minibuses, and buses.

Receive practical, high-quality training on Tanzania’s national curriculum, student-centered approaches, and effective classroom management—essential skills for a career in education.
Build confidence as a public speaker and grow as a leader while making a meaningful impact on young students.
Learn Swahili while developing strong community relationships and experiencing Tanzanian culture.

Identify foundational math concepts and teach students the essential concepts and skills needed for mastery.
Teach mathematics from the national curriculum using a STEM‑aligned, inquiry‑based approach.
Introduce creative, innovative classroom approaches that strengthen math comprehension and retention.
Coach students to develop confidence, persistence, and goals in pursuing future academic and career pathways.
Design, administer, and analyze pre‑ and post‑assessments to measure learning growth.
Plan and teach lessons that reinforce key vocabulary and incorporate guest speakers who are STEM role models.
Develop and facilitate hands‑on, discovery‑focused activities that promote exploration and inquiry.

You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s priorities, such as supporting after-school clubs or summer camps.

As a Middle and High School Math Teacher, you will be trained on the national curriculum, student-centered approaches, and effective classroom management. Peace Corps/Tanzania will teach you Swahili to help you live comfortably and connect with the community.  
 
After 11 weeks of training, you will move to a rural community where you will collaborate with educators and staff at a middle or high school to assess math education needs and develop long-term solutions.