RI Science Professional Development and Student Opportunity Bulletin

January 25, 2013

This bulletin will be sent on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. If you would like to share an event, quality resource, or other opportunity, please follow the directions for doing so at the bottom of the newsletter. To SUBSCRIBE send an email to Peter.Mclaren@ride.ri.gov with SUBSCRIBE RISCI-MSHS in the Subject Line

Go To RIScienceTeachers - https://riscienceteachers.wikispaces.com/ for PDF copy of past issues

New In This Bulletin Prof. Development Student Opportunities Job Opportunities Web Sites News

New In This Bulletin:

Take Part in a "Turbulent" Webinar Series! New Weekly Designed to Teach the Physics of Turbulence iPad Professional Development Workshop at the RI STEM Center at RIC Saturday February 9, 2013 (K-12) Students on Ice Scholarships Available for 2 Rhode Island Students Apply by March 1 (Students must be between 14 & 18 years old) New England Association of Chemistry Teachers Meeting Register by March 8 (HS Chemistry) Hurricanes: Science and Society Webinar for 5th Grade Students May 8th and 9th

Job Opportunities:
Chemistry Position Providence Public Schools
Providence Public Schools is seeking candidates with the appropriate amount of experience, a proven ability to positively impact our educational programs, and outstanding communication skills for a chemistry teacher position. Applicants must hold a current certificate in the area of chemistry. This is an immediate opening. Please apply online at www.ProvidenceSchools.org/careers

Long-Term Biology and General Science Substitute Position North Smithfield High School, North Smithfield, RI
North Smithfield High School is seeking candidates to fill a short term substitute position in Biology and general science. Applicants must hold a current certificate in the areas of Biology and general science. The term begins March 18th and extends to the end of the school year. Please instruct interested applicants to send their resumes through schoolspring.com. Questions should be directed to Robert Mezzanotte, Principal at

rmezzanotte@nsps.us

News:
NGSS Second and Final Public Draft Open for Review Until January 29th.
This is the last weekend to review the second (and final) public draft of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). All science educators, administrators, and other stakeholders are strongly encouraged to review the draft and provide feedback online to Achieve during the comment period, which ends January 29. Review the draft here. NSTA has a vast collection of materials organized by topic and disciplinary core ideas to help you study the second public draft of NGSS. Find them here. Take a look at the short video developed by Matt Krehbiel, Science Education Program Consultant for the Kansas State Department of Education that will help you to navigate the Next Generation Science Standards website and the Achieve survey. Learn more and sign up for one of these upcoming NSTA webinars on Engineering Practices in NGSS (1/15); Using the NGSS Practices in the Elementary Grades (1/29); or Making Connections Between NGSS and Common Core Math and ELA (2/12). Watch Montana teacher of the year Paul Anderson's comprehensive video series on NGSS. Take a peek at one of the eight webinars presented earlier this fall that focused on the Scientific and Engineering Practices described in A Framework for K12 Science Education. Mark your calendars now and look for more information on the NGSS webinars coming this winter and spring (all of them 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. ET): February 19: Patterns March 5: Cause and effect: Mechanism and explanation March 19: Scale, proportion, and quantity April 2: Systems and system models April 16: Energy and matter: Flows, cycles, and conservation April 30: Structure and function May 14: Stability and change Read and download NSTA's growing collection of monthly journal articles exploring the Framework. Articles examine the practices, crosscutting concepts, connections to common core, and more. Watch for upcoming articles on the core ideas by Rodger Bybee, Joe Krajcik, and Michael Wysession. Learn more about the new members-only NSTA listserv dedicated solely to NGSS. Read the January 8 Education Week article "New Science Standards Draft Includes Many Changes." If you would like receive e-mail announcements about NGSS, please send an e-mail to: NGSS-L-request@LISTSERV.RI.NET

Learn How to Do a Science Fair ProjectNew Video Series from NASA JPL
Just in time for science fair season! The Education Office at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has released a video series designed to take teachers, students, and parents through the sometimes mystifying process of crafting a science fair project. The six-part video series features JPL scientist Serina Diniega, engineer Arby Argueta, and educator Ota Lutz, who team up to take viewers step by step through the project design process, from generating an idea to communicating the final results in an attractive display. Students learn about one of the hardest steps in the process - generating an idea - from the perspectives of scientific investigation and engineering design, discovering how to observe and ask questions about the world around them that can serve as starting points for their projects. The videos also cover common areas that students often overlook while designing their projects, such as asking a testable question that examines just one concept, and considering elements that could affect an experiment and factoring them into the results. Visit the JPL website to watch the series, download related resources, and find notes for teachers and parents.

Web Sites Worth Exploring:

Teaching With the Library of Congress (Best Colleges Online)
Teachers looking to boost their credentials and lesson plans should look no farther than the world's largest library's vast digital collections.

Print What You Like - http://www.printwhatyoulike.com/

Print What You Like is a website that lets you choose what parts of a web page you'd like to print. You can save quite a bit of ink and paper with this site. There are several ways to use the site; you can enter the URL of the page you want to print at the website, there's a bookmarklet you can use with most browsers, and Print What You Like supports Firefox, Chrome, Opera, Safari and Internet Explorer 7 and up.

Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers

RIDE Offers Professional Development (PD) on the Critical Areas Of Focus Within The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) In English Language Arts (ELA)/Literacy
RIDE is offering professional development (PD) regarding the critical areas of focus within the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in English language arts (ELA)/Literacy. Each one day session will provide you with an understanding of the topic and familiarity with the tools/ activities that are provided within the modules currently on the website. The goal of this PD is for you to be able to share your learning with others in your school or LEA. Science educators would find value in the topics of: Text Dependent Questions, Writing an Argument and Academic Vocab sessions. All Sessions run from 8:00 3:00 PM

Day Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Tuesday

Date Feb 5, 2013 Feb 6, 2013 Feb 7, 2013 March 12, 2013

Topic Text Dependent Questions Writing an Argument Academic Vocab Text Dependent Questions

Location Chariho Career and Tech Coventry Admin Building Middletown Admin Building Woonsocket Middle School

Wednesday Thursday Day Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday

March 13, 2013 March 14, 2013 Date January 26, 2013 February 2, 2013 February 9, 2013 March 23, 2013

Academic Vocab Writing an Argument Topic Academic Vocab Text Dependent Questions Text Complexity Writing an Argument

Coventry Admin Building Middletown Admin Building Location CCRI- Warwick CCRI- Warwick CCRI- Warwick CCRI- Warwick

US Department of Education Green Strides Webinar Series Continues in 2013

Through the Green Strides Webinar Series hundreds of state, local and school officials and their communities are tuning in to learn how to reduce their schools environmental impact and costs; improve health and wellness; and provide effective environmental education, including STEM, green careers, and civic engagement. The Series provides administrators, educators, parents and interested third parties the resources to move toward the exemplary levels of U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools>>>. Jan. 30, 2013, 4-5 p.m. Eyes on the Earth- Global Climate Change (NASA) Feb. 6, 2013, 4-5 p.m. An Energy Literate Citizenry from K to Grey (DOE) Feb. 13, 2013, 4-5 p.m. Emerging Green Technologies (NASA) Feb. 20, 2013, 4-5 p.m. Climate Time Machine (NASA)

Save The Bays Bay Institute for Experiential Learning Registration opens January 7th (Middle and High School)

Apply to be a US Department of Education Teaching Ambassador Applications Close January 29, 2013 (K-12)
The applications for 2013-2014 ED Washington and Classroom Teaching Ambassador Fellowships are now available and will close on January 29, 2013. Teaching Ambassador Fellows are outstanding teachers, with a record of leadership, strong communication skills, and insights into educational policy based in classroom expertise. All Teaching Ambassador Fellows spend a year learning about key federal programs and policies; sharing their expertise

with federal staff; and providing outreach and communication about federal initiatives to other educators on behalf of the Department. More information click here

Christopher Columbus Foundation Agriscience Awards Apply by January 29, 2013 (High School Educators)
The Agriscience Awards are designed to highlight the importance of agriculture in the 21st century. The Foundation, in partnership with the American Farm Bureau Federation, will present monetary awards to educators and students representing new innovative approaches in the field of agriscience around the country--scientists, educators and students. All award recipients must be living United States citizens. COMPETITION RULES AND REGULATIONS PURPOSE: The Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation, a Federal government agency, and the American Farm Bureau Federation have formed a partnership to present four monetary awards to three groups representing new innovative approaches in the field of agriscience around the country. The awards will honor one adult scientist; one high school educator and two high school students who are judged to exemplify excellence in the agriscience field. ELIGIBILITY AND SELECTION PROCESS: This is a competition NOT a grant application. Individuals compete and their accomplishments are judged on how they exemplify excellence in the field of agriscience. The 2013 Agriscience Awards program shall consist of the following four awards: $5,000 Agriscience Educator Award One $5,000 Agriscience Educator Award will be presented to a current high school educator, with at least five years of teaching experience, and who emphasizes concepts, principles and applications in their curriculum to promote the study of agriscience to students. Criteria 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. All Candidates must be living United States citizens. The Nomination must demonstrate an ongoing teaching strategy that evidences proficiency in instructing students in the field of agriscience. The Nomination must demonstrate an enterprising spirit in teaching and making available resources to students that promote excellence in the field of agriscience. The Nomination must demonstrate outstanding teaching, guidance and mentoring of students for independent study projects. Any Nomination that does not meet the above stated criteria will be disqualified. If a Nomination is selected as a semifinalist, the Nominator will be notified and asked to provide copies of supporting materials. All Nominations and materials submitted in connection with the Agriscience Awards and any reproductions made therefrom, shall be solely, exclusively and entirely the property of the Foundation and shall not be returned. The Foundation shall have the sole and exclusive right to use, and permit others to use, the above stated Nomination and materials including the candidates name, likeness, and other biographical information and promotions, news releases and advertising in connection with either present or future Foundation programs or similar programs or awards. All materials submitted become the property of the Foundation without any NOMINATION MATERIALS:

compensation to the candidate. However, the Foundation does not claim ownership of the intellectual property submitted. ADDITIONAL RULES: Candidates must be permitted to accept a monetary award bestowed by the Foundation, a Federal government agency. Awards may be taxable income to the recipient. All tax liabilities are the sole responsibility of the winner. All Federal, State and local laws and regulations apply. Winners must attend the awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., on July 8, 2013 in order to receive the award. Anyone who cannot attend the awards ceremony will automatically be disqualified. Nominations are received online ONLY at: www.agriscienceawards.com . The deadline for submissions is January 29, 2013. The Foundation reserves the right to cancel or change the Agriscience Awardsprogram competition at any time at its full discretion. Questions? Please contact: Judith Shellenberger at judithmscolumbus@cs.com or call (315)258-0090

NEW!!! Take Part in a "Turbulent" Webinar Series! New Weekly Designed to Teach the Physics of Turbulence
From "white-knuckle" plane flights to the soothing swirl of cream in your coffee, turbulence is an ever-present part of our daily lives. But how much do you know about it? Join us as we feature three eminent scientists who study this amazing phenomenon. Designed for physics, math and science educators, these webinars will contain information on the physics of turbulence as well as its effect on life. Each webinar will feature an interactive concept map filled with resources for use in the classroom, including videos, images and other resources. This three-part series will focus on several different topics: 1.The fundamentals of turbulence and why it is important 2.The effect of turbulence at different scales (and on different organisms) 3.Living with turbulence as a microscopic organism Sign up now! (http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/turbulence) The series is free and requires only an internet connection and computer with with working audio (through speakers or headphones). The concept map and resources presented will be sent to participants after the webinar concludes, and the expert-presented webinars will also be archived for viewing online. ---------------------------------------Series Schedule: Webinar I: What is Turbulence and Why Do We Care? January 23, 2013 - 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT In Part I of our three-part series, Dr. Donald Webster (Georgia Tech) will introduce us to the topsy-turvy world of turbulence. Webinar II: From Cosmos to Copepods - How Does Turbulence Impact Different Scales? January 30, 2013 - 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT In Part II, Dr. Jeanette Yen (Georgia Tech) will discuss the effects of turbulence at different scales - from the cosmos to copepods. Webinar III: How Does Turbulence Shift Advantage for the Tiniest Ocean Creatures? February 6, 2013 - 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT In Part III, Dr. Pete Jumars (University of Maine) will discuss some of the ocean's tiniest inhabitants, and how turbulence and fluid dynamics affect their chances for survival. P.S. For information on previous webinar series on other STEM topics, visit the online archive.

RealWorld-InWorld NASA Engineering Design Challenge Submit by January 31, 2013

(Grades 8 12)
The RealWorld-InWorld NASA Engineering Design Challenge encourages students in grades 8-12 to explore and build skills essential for successful careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through two phases of project-based learning and team competition. The RealWorld phase of the competition is now open. RealWorld (Phase 1): Teams of middle- and high-school students, with the support of their teachers/coaches, work collaboratively as engineers and scientists to explore and design solutions related to the James Webb Space Telescope. To be considered to move to the InWorld phase, all RealWorld work must be submitted by the January 31, 2013 deadline. InWorld (Phase 2): Participating college students select teams of two to four middle- and high-school-aged students who have completed the RealWorld phase to build their InWorld teams. Participation is limited to U.S. citizens. Teams work in a 3-D virtual online environment using 21st century tools to refine designs and to create 3-D models of their design solutions. InWorld Phase begins: Feb. 9, 2013 InWorld Phase ends: April 26, 2013 NASA scientists and engineers visit and chat virtually throughout both phases of the challenge. To learn more about the challenge and to register for online resources for this free and flexible project, visit www.nasarealworldinworld.org Are you ready to solve the challenges of space exploration?

Ocean Sciences Symposium Register By February 1

Ocean Sciences Symposium March 8, 2013 9:30am 12:30 pm Rabb Room - Boston Public Library Copley Square, Boston, Mass Sponsored by a grant from the Boston Sea Rovers The 2013 Ocean Sciences Symposium offers a series of dynamic presentations about the world's oceans as well as discussion of Career Opportunities in the Marine Sciences including Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM topics). Our program this year features the following presentations: Global Climate Change and the World's Oceans The biology and ecology of Great White Sharks in New England Engineering a new Giant Ocean Tank and opportunities at the New England Aquarium Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus and science underwater The art, craft and science of Underwater Photography Ocean Science with the Boston Sea Rovers Reservations are required by February 1 as space is limited. If interested send a request telling why you wish to attend including the school you represent, the teachers attending and the number of tickets requested for students. We do require one adult chaperon per 25 students. Contact: George Buckley, Chairman, COMS & Assistant Director Sustainability and Environmental Management Programs DCE/Harvard University gbuckley@fas.harvard.edu 617-998-8597

NEW!!! iPad Professional Development Workshop at the RI STEM Center at RIC Saturday February 9, 2013 (K-12)
Henry Barnard School, Room 214 Shawn Rubin and Stephanie Castilla, Instructors - Highlander Institute

The RI STEM Center is pleased to have Shawn Rubin and Stephanie Castilla as instructors for the day. Their previous workshops at the STEM Center received high marks from participants. Goals for the day include learning how to: Increase the personalization of student instruction; Use the iPad for formative assessment in order to analyze student understanding and differentiate instruction; Motivate students through engaging apps and activities. The session will emphasize development of 21st century skills through use of student-centered techniques that encourage creativity, creation, and questioning. Open to teachers of all disciplines at all levels. Attendees bring their own iPad to this workshop. Cost: $25 which includes continental breakfast. Lunch is available for purchase at the nearby Donovan Dining Center. Register online (if link does not work, copy and paste the following into your browser: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dG9lcWY5ZWlYZ0pwbFZXUGNuVFUzYnc6MQ Seat in workshop will be confirmed upon receipt of payment. Send checks, made out to the RI STEM Center, to: Dr. Mary Sullivan, Director RI STEM Center, HBS 202 Rhode Island College 600 Mt. Pleasant Ave. Providence, RI 02908

Christopher Columbus Foundation U.S. Chamber of Commerce Life Sciences Award Apply by February 12, 2013 (High School AP Bio and AP Chem Educators)
The $5,000 Life Sciences Educator Award will be presented to a current high school educator, with at least five years of teaching experience, who demonstrates an ongoing teaching strategy that evidences proficiency in instructing students in the College Boards Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Biology, Chemistry or other life sciences courses. Evidence of proficiency may be demonstrated through showing that a disproportionate percentage of students achieve AP or IB exam grades scoring in the 4 or higher level of either the biology and/or chemistry curriculum. Criteria 1. All Nominees must be living United States citizens. 2. The Nomination must demonstrate an ongoing teaching strategy that evidences proficiency in instructing students in the College Board's Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Biology, Chemistry or other life sciences courses. Evidence of proficiency may be demonstrated through showing that a disproportionate percentage of students achieve AP or IB exam grades scoring in the 4 or higher level of either the biology and/or chemistry curriculum. 3. The Nomination must demonstrate an enterprising spirit in teaching and making available resources to students that promote excellence in the study of life science-related coursework. 4. The Nomination must demonstrate outstanding teaching, guidance and mentoring of students for independent study projects. 5. Any Nomination that does not meet the above stated criteria will be disqualified. NOMINATION MATERIALS: If a Nomination is selected as a semifinalist, the Nominator will be notified and asked to provide copies of

supporting materials. All Nominations and materials submitted in connection with the Life Sciences Awards and any reproductions made therefrom, shall be solely, exclusively and entirely the property of the Foundation and shall not be returned. The Foundation shall have the sole and exclusive right to use, and permit others to use, the above stated Nomination and materials including the candidates name, likeness, and other biographical information and promotions, news releases and advertising in connection with either present or future Foundation programs or similar programs or awards. All materials submitted become the property of the Foundation without any compensation to the candidate. However, the Foundation does not claim ownership of the intellectual property submitted. ADDITIONAL RULES: Candidates must be permitted to accept a monetary award bestowed by the Foundation, a Federal government agency. Awards may be taxable income to the recipient. All tax liabilities are the sole responsibility of the winner. All Federal, State and local laws and regulations apply. Winners must attend the awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., in July, 2013 (date TBD) in order to receive the award. Anyone who cannot attend the awards ceremony will automatically be disqualified. Nominations are received online ONLY at: www.agriscienceawards.com . The deadline for submissions is February 12, 2013. Questions? Please go to www.ccolumbusfoundationawards.org.

Apply for the Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence Apply by February 13, 2013 (K-12)
Dear Rhode Island Science Teachers, The Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence is open to local teachers in Amgen communities. Science teachers across Rhode Island are eligible to apply. The nine winners across Amgen communities will receive an unrestricted cash award of $5,000, with the recipients school receiving an additional $5,000 restricted grant for their schools science program. We strongly encourage you to apply for the 2013 Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence. Or, if you know of a strong science teacher in Rhode Island, please bring them to our attention by emailing aaste@edc.org.

Attention:

Rhode Island Science Teachers

Apply Today for the 2013 Award

Deadline for Applications: February 13, 2013 To Apply:* www.amgen.com/citizenship/aaste.html Questions: Phone: (617) 6182528 Email: aaste@edc.org
*Terms and conditions apply. Please see the program website for further details.

Environmental Council of RI Education Fund Application For Chafee Conservation Leadership Awards Apply by February 15 (K-12)
The Environment Council of Rhode Islands Education Fund is honored to announce the opening of the application period for the John H. Chafee Conservation Leadership Awards for 2013. Honoring the memory of the late Governor and U.S. Senator for his dedication to preserving the environment, The ECRI Education Fund honors four Rhode Island organizations each year for their work in improving the health of the Rhode Island environment. Recipients are selected by an independent panel of judges based on applications received from RI businesses, non profits, municipalities, and educational institutions that highlight specific projects and programs related to conservation. Past winners include organizations that reduced polluting discharges, instituted recycling programs, developed renewable energy projects, installed sewage treatment facility upgrades, increased land conservation, and provided hands on environmental education for Rhode Island children. Potential winning projects are not limited to the examples provided here. Any project that improves the health of the Rhode Island environment is welcome for consideration. Applications are due at the Environment Council of Rhode Island (ECRI) office by February 15, 2013. Copies of this application can be found at http://www.environmentcouncilri.org/ or obtained by sending an email to: environmentcouncil@earthlink.net. For further information, please contact the office at (401) 621-8048.

NASAs REEL Science Communication Contest Deadline February 15 (HS)

Audience: 9-12 Educators and Students Deadline: Feb. 15, 2013 So you want to be a NASA producer? NASA is looking for talented high school students to create videos that engage students in earth science. Students are consuming over 10 hours of media each day, and video is increasingly important to reach and engage this audience about science. NASA earth science missions are kicking off a new video contest challenging high school students to produce a two-minute video for middle school students. The videos should focus on one of three topics: Ozone in the Stratosphere, Ship Tracks and Our Environment, or The Water of the Water Planet. Winning videos will be posted on NASAs website. Winners will also get the opportunity to be a NASA producer

working with NASA scientists and communication experts in July 2013 to produce an earth science feature video. The deadline for submitting videos is Feb. 15, 2013. For more information and instructions for submitting a video, visit http://aura.gsfc.nasa.gov/reelscience Questions about this contest should be emailed to Ginger Butcher at ginger.butcher-1@nasa.gov

NEW!!! New England Association of Chemistry Teachers Meeting Register by March 8 (HS Chemistry)
The New England Association of Chemistry Teachers (NEACT) will host its March meeting at UMass Dartmouth, Saturday morning March 16, 2013. The meeting begins at 9AM with registration at 8:30.

We are delighted to have speakers from UMass (Dartmouth, MA) and The Chemical Heritage Foundation (Philadelphia, PA) on the agenda. Professor Alan Hirshfeld, physics professor and author of numerous monographs in the history of science, will speak to us about how astronomers used spectroscopy to determine the chemical composition of the Sun. Not only relevant to the high school chemistry curriculum, but exciting as it is the subject of his next book. Gigi Naglak and Jen Dionisio, the creators of CHF.s popular First Friday Series are traveling all the way from Philly to enlighten and entertain us with their tasteful kitchen chemistry stories. The meeting will take place in SENG 115 on campus; the best parking is in Lot 16 or 17. For purposes of planning refreshments, we are asking that you RSVP to shawn5678@gmail.com by March 8.

RIDE Seeks Educators to be part of Academy for Transformative Leadership - Applications Due March 29, 2013
As part of RIDE's Academy for Transformative Leadership, a statewide RTTT-funded initiative that will train and support leaders to transform Rhode Island's identified schools, RIDE is working with the NYC Leadership Academy (NYCLA) to recruit, select and train educators. The Aspiring Turnaround Leaders Program is seeking eight educators to participate in a year-long intensive program, including a fulltime, compensated school-based residency that will prepare them to become principals of identified schools in fall 2014. The program will begin in July 2013 with a three week summer intensive training prior to residency placement. Applications are due on or before March 29, 2013. Access the application and additional information here. Informative webinars to help you decide! Advance registration for the webinars is required. Register for a session now by clicking a date below: Mon, Jan 28, 2013 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST Thu, Feb 7, 2013 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST Wed, Feb 20, 2013 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EST Tue, Mar 5, 2013 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST Wed, Mar 13, 2013 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT Once registered you will receive an email confirming your registration with information you need to join the Webinar.

Click the following link for a job description and application information: http://www.ride.ri.gov/RIDE/transformation.aspx

STEM DIGITAL Summer Institute, June 24 28, 2013 Applications Due April 1, 2013 (MS
HS Teachers) STEM Digital Images in Geoscience Investigations: Teaching Analysis with Light Monday to Friday, June 24 - 28, 2013 at UMass Amherst Funded by the National Science Foundation Sponsored by the STEM Education Institute Middle and High School Science, Math, and Technology Teachers Teams of science and computer teachers encouraged Participants MUST bring a digital camera, and are encouraged to bring a laptop computer $75/day stipends ($375 total), materials, parking, lunches Housing and meals for those outside the commuting radius 3 to 6 graduate credits available at reduced cost; free PDP's (Professional Development Points) STEM DIGITAL will use the AnalyzingDigitalImages software which provides free, easy-to-use tools for spatial, temporal, spectral, and intensity measurements. It will show how digital image analysis can be applied to environmental quality issues in ways that can readily be introduced into STEM courses, engaging students and encouraging them to think about related careers. The program will develop research agendas that will employ a variety of image analysis tools. Application forms and more information: www.umassk12.net/digital. Contact: msilver@umassk12.net. Voice: 413-545-0734, fax: 413-545-3697

Presidential Award For Excellence In Mathematics And Science Teaching (PAEMST) Nominations Now Open Nominations Due April 1, 2013 (Grades 7-12 Teachers)
Are you or do you know an outstanding secondary (grades 7-12) mathematics and science teachers that you should be recognized for their talents? The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest honor that a kindergarten through 12th-grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. What better way to acknowledge excellence of our colleagues than to nominate the teachers who exemplify their profession. The process to nominate teachers is a simple one. Simply go to the PAEMST website at www.paemst.org and fill in the on-line form. Once the nomination is submitted the nominated teacher will then be notified and provided information about the application process. The following are eligibility criteria for nominees. Candidates must: Teach mathematics or science at the 7-12th grade level in a public or private school. Hold at least a Bachelors degree from an accredited institution. Be a full-time employee of the school or school district as determined by state and district policies, and teach K-12 students at least 50% of the time. Have at least 5 years of full-time, K-12 mathematics or science teaching experience prior to the 2012-13 academic school year. Teach in one of the 50 states or the four U.S. jurisdictions. The jurisdictions are Washington, D.C.; Puerto Rico; Department of Defense Education Activity schools; and the U.S. territories as a group (American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Not have received the PAEMST award at the national level in any prior competition or category. Rhode Island has many wonderful teachers, and those you nominate could be state or national Presidential Awardees for Excellence in Teaching Mathematics and Science for 2013. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 222-8454 or by email at peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov. Thank you for your continued support for mathematics and science education.

UMass Nanotechnology 2013 Summer Institute Apply by April 1, 2013 (MS and HS Math, Science, and Technology Educators)
Monday to Friday, July 8 - July 13, 2013 at UMass Amherst Funded by the National Science Foundation Sponsored by the STEM Education Institute and the Center for Hierarchical Manufacturing Middle and High School Science, Math, and Technology Teachers $75/day stipends ($375 total), materials, parking, some meals Housing (new air conditioned dorms) for those outside the commuting radius 3 graduate credits available at reduced cost; free PDP's(Professional Development Points) Nanotechnology deals with materials on the scale of nanometers. A nanometer is one-millionth of a millimeter, or about 10 atomic diameters. Such materials can have surprising and useful behaviors and properties. Applications of this rapidly growing field include regenerative medicine, fabrics and construction materials of unprecedented strength, ultra-high performance computers and data storage, more efficient solar photovoltaic cells, and much more. Activity in this field cuts across the traditional disciplinary boundaries, and involves chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering. The UMass Nanotechnology Summer Institute will explore the basic science and engineering concepts of this exciting new field, and will illustrate how they may be integrated into the usual math, science and technology courses in middle schools and high schools. The content and pedagogy will be aligned with the Massachusetts Science and Technology/Engineering Framework. During the institute, participants will begin to develop curriculum units for their own classes. They will implement these in the fall and report on their progress and results online. Three graduate credits will be available for the institute and curriculum unit; the cost will be $300 plus a $45 registration fee. PDP's will be available at no cost. Application process: An application form and additional information are available at www.umassk12.net/nano. Teachers should also prepare a narrative statement of how they intend to use the institute materials in their classroom, and include in their application package a recent resume and a letter of support from their school principal or superintendent. The application package can be submitted by email, fax, or US mail. Applications are due April 1, 2013. Late applications will be accepted on a space available basis.

FREE 5 day ASM Teachers Materials Camp, July 8 12 (MS and HS Teachers)
Attend a 5-day professional development workshop in Materials Science in the Summer of 2013 at no cost to you! Who should attend? High school general science, chemistry,physics, math and technology teachers Middle school physical science teachers Why attend? Learn how to engage your students using simple, low-cost experiments that you can integrate into your existing lesson plans Help your students discover career opportunities in science & engineering Learn the basics of Materials Science, an exciting branch of physics and chemistry Everything is FREE: 4 CEUs, course materials, lunches & snacks. The course will include one visit to an industrial

site, and a session on an electron microscope: each participant can bring a sample! Graduate credits available! Two (2) graduate credits are available at $250. (This is optional.) To apply online & view the complete 2013 ASM Materials Camp schedule, visit: www.asmfoundation.org Venue: Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, MA Date: July 8-12, 2013 Questions? Jeane Deatherage, Administrator of Foundation Programs jeane.deatherage@asminternational.org ; 1-800-336-5152, X5533; or PeterJepson, jepjepjeppo@gmail.com , 978-462-1175.

Science Enrichment/Challenge Opportunities for Students

NASAs Amateur Radio On The International Space Station (ARISS) Proposal Is Live Online Proposals Due January 28, 2013
NASA is now accepting proposals from U.S. schools, museums, science centers and community youth organizations, individually or working together, to host an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station contact between May 1, 2013 and Nov. 1, 2013. To maximize these radio contact opportunities, NASA is looking for organizations that will draw large numbers of participants and integrate the contact into a well-developed education plan. Radio contacts are approximately 10 minutes in length. Proposals are due January 28, 2013. Interested parties should visit www.nasa.gov/education/tfs/ariss to obtain complete information including how the technology works, what is expected of the host organization and how to submit the proposal form.

Christopher Columbus Foundation Agriscience Awards Apply by January 29, 2013 (High School Students)
The Agriscience Awards are designed to highlight the importance of agriculture in the 21st century. The Foundation, in partnership with the American Farm Bureau Federation, will present monetary awards to educators and students representing new innovative approaches in the field of agriscience around the country--scientists, educators and students. All award recipients must be living United States citizens. COMPETITION RULES AND REGULATIONS PURPOSE: The Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation, a Federal government agency, and the American Farm Bureau Federation have formed a partnership to present four monetary awards to three groups representing new innovative approaches in the field of agriscience around the country. The awards will honor one adult scientist; one high school educator and two high school students who are judged to exemplify excellence in the agriscience field. ELIGIBILITY AND SELECTION PROCESS: This is a competition NOT a grant application. Individuals compete and their accomplishments are judged on how they exemplify excellence in the field of agriscience.

$1,000 Agriscience Student Awards Two $1,000 Agriscience Student Awards will be presented to current high school students who are making or have recently made significant and positive contributions related to the field of agriscience. Criteria 1. 2. 3. 4. All Candidates must be living United States citizens. Nominations are strongly encouraged from educators, faculty members and school administrators personally familiar with the students academic achievements in the field of agriscience. Nominees must demonstrate ongoing work and/or provide proven evidence that distinguishes them in the field of agriscience. Any Nomination that does not meet the above stated criteria will be disqualified.

NOMINATION MATERIALS: If a Nomination is selected as a semifinalist, the Nominator will be notified and asked to provide copies of supporting materials. All Nominations and materials submitted in connection with the Agriscience Awards and any reproductions made therefrom, shall be solely, exclusively and entirely the property of the Foundation and shall not be returned. The Foundation shall have the sole and exclusive right to use, and permit others to use, the above stated Nomination and materials including the candidates name, likeness, and other biographical information and promotions, news releases and advertising in connection with either present or future Foundation programs or similar programs or awards. All materials submitted become the property of the Foundation without any compensation to the candidate. However, the Foundation does not claim ownership of the intellectual property submitted. ADDITIONAL RULES: Candidates must be permitted to accept a monetary award bestowed by the Foundation, a Federal government agency. Awards may be taxable income to the recipient. All tax liabilities are the sole responsibility of the winner. All Federal, State and local laws and regulations apply. Winners must attend the awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., on July 8, 2013 in order to receive the award. Anyone who cannot attend the awards ceremony will automatically be disqualified. Nominations are received online ONLY at: www.agriscienceawards.com . The deadline for submissions is January 29, 2013. The Foundation reserves the right to cancel or change the Agriscience Awardsprogram competition at any time at its full discretion. Questions? Please contact: Judith Shellenberger at judithmscolumbus@cs.com or call (315)258-0090

The DuPont Challenge: Student Science Essay Competition Entries Due January 31, 2013 (Students 13 years or older)
Are you passionate about the exciting world of science? Are you intrigued by the possibilities that the latest scientific ideas and developments may hold for our future? The DuPont Challenge, North America's premier science essay competition, encourages you to delve deep into your interests in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and express yourself with creativity and purpose. Ours is a growing world that faces new challenges each day, and we want YOU to share your ideas for how science can help keep our global population supplied with food, safety, and clean energy. Essays must be between 700 to 1,000 words in length, include a list of research sources, and fall under one of these four

categories: Together, we can feed the world. Together, we can build a secure energy future. Together, we can protect people and the environment. Together, we can be innovative anywhere. Learn more about the challenges, and explore this section for valuable tips on writing your science essay: How to Prepare a Winning Essay Guide to Research and Writing Tips for Introductions and Conclusions "Tips for Success" Video with Dr. Judy Pinto Profiles of Previous DuPont Challenge Winners List of Student Awards Honoring the Crew of the Challenger Space Shuttle Be sure to read all Official Rules carefully before submitting your essay. For more information go to http://thechallenge.dupont.com/students/

Christopher Columbus Foundation U.S. Chamber of Commerce Life Sciences Award Apply by February 12, 2013 (High School Students)
Two $1,000 Life Sciences Student Awards will be presented to current secondary school students who are making or have recently made significant and positive contributions related to the study of Biology, Chemistry or other life sciences courses. Criteria 1. All Nominees must be living United States citizens. 2. Nominations are strongly encouraged from educators, faculty members and school administrators personally familiar with the students academic achievements in the study of life sciences. 3. Nominees must demonstrate ongoing work and/or provide proven evidence that distinguishes them in the study of life sciences. 4. Any Nomination that does not meet the above stated criteria will be disqualified. NOMINATION MATERIALS: If a Nomination is selected as a semifinalist, the Nominator will be notified and asked to provide copies of supporting materials. All Nominations and materials submitted in connection with the Life Sciences Awards and any reproductions made therefrom, shall be solely, exclusively and entirely the property of the Foundation and shall not be returned. The Foundation shall have the sole and exclusive right to use, and permit others to use, the above stated Nomination and materials including the candidates name, likeness, and other biographical information and promotions, news releases and advertising in connection with either present or future Foundation programs or similar programs or awards. All materials submitted become the property of the Foundation without any compensation to the candidate. However, the Foundation does not claim ownership of the intellectual property submitted. ADDITIONAL RULES: Candidates must be permitted to accept a monetary award bestowed by the Foundation, a Federal government agency. Awards may be taxable income to the recipient. All tax liabilities are the sole responsibility of the winner. All Federal, State and local laws and regulations apply. Winners must attend the awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., in July, 2013 (date TBD) in order to receive the award. Anyone who cannot attend the awards ceremony will automatically be disqualified.

Nominations are received online ONLY at: www.agriscienceawards.com . The deadline for submissions is February 12, 2013. Questions? Please go to www.ccolumbusfoundationawards.org.

Apply to Represent Rhode Island at the National Youth Science Camp Apply by February 15, 2013 (HS Seniors)
The National Youth Science Camp is one of the nations premier programs in secondary science education. Since its inception in 1963 the summer program has offered educational forums and recreational activities that encourage the development of thoughtful scientific leadership. The National Youth Science Camp is a residential science education program for young scientists the summer after they graduate from high school. Students from around the country are challenged academically in exciting lectures and hands-on studies, and have voluntary opportunities to participate in an outdoor adventure program, gain a new and deep appreciation for the great outdoors, and establish friendships that last a lifetime. Two Rhode Island Seniors will be chosen to represent each state as delegates to the National Youth Science Camp. Delegates have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, leadership in school and community activities, and a genuine interest in the sciences. Selected delegates attend the National Youth Science Camp the summer after their high school graduation at no expense, transportation included. To Apply 1. Download the

2. 3.

2013 NYSC Application Packet (.doc format) 2013 NYSC Application Packet (.docx format) 2013 NYSC Application Packet (.pdf format)

Complete the application. Submit your application directly to: Peter J. McLaren Rhode Island Department of Education 255 Westminster Street - 4th Floor Providence, Rhode Island 02903 Email:

peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov

(Office) 401-222-8454 (Fax) 401-222-3605 Applications will be accepted no later than February 15, 2013. DO NOT send applications directly to the National Youth Science Foundation. The National Youth Science Camp is made possible through the planning and fund-raising of the National Youth Science Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a mission to honor, sustain, and encourage youth interest and excellence in science by conducting comprehensive informal science education programs that provide opportunity for constructive interaction with others and emphasize the social value of thoughtful scientific careers.

NEW!!! Students on Ice Scholarships Available for 2 Rhode Island Students Apply by March 1 (Students must be between 14 & 18 years old)

We are very excited to share with you an incredible opportunity to travel to the Arctic! In partnership with the Beatrice Snyder Foundation, Students on Ice is proudly offering 2 fully-funded scholarships for Rhode Island youth to participate on our upcoming Arctic Expedition. These scholarships are available for Rhode Island high school students between the ages of 14-18 who demonstrate a need for financial assistance. This expedition represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for youth to expand their knowledge about the circumpolar world, and to gain a global perspective of the Arctic, its wonders, and its present and future challenges.This summers expedition will travel from Greenland to Nunavut! Scholarship recipients must act as an ambassador for his/her community and must be prepared to share their journey with the community and country before, during and after the expedition. Students will be expected to be available for media interviews and to submit journal entries for the SOI Expedition Website and other blogs. Applicants must understand that this is an educational expedition, not a vacation and as a result, must be committed to participate fully in all aspects of the education program. Interested students must demonstrate some or all of the following qualities: strong academics and/or passion for learning, interest in the polar regions; leadership qualities and/or potential to develop these qualities; a desire to make a difference, become a polar ambassador and be an environmentally responsible citizen. Applications are due March 1st, 2013. Please contact our participant coordinator, Shirley Manh, at shirley@studentsonice.com if you have any questions. Best regards, The SOI team

Cornells CURIE and CATALYST Academies for HS Students Interested in Engineering Careers Apply by March 1, 2013 (Grades 9-11)
Please share this opportunity with your high school aged students. We are now accepting applications for our engineering focused high school summer programs, CURIE Academy and CATALYST Academy, both will take place July 14-20, 2013. We have need based tuition and travel assistance available for both academies. The CURIE and CATALYST Academies are one-week summer residential programs for high school students who excel in math and science, enjoy solving problems, and want to learn more about careers in engineering. The target populations for the CURIE Academy are current sophomore and junior girls of all backgrounds. The target populations for the CATALYST Academy are current freshmen, sophomore, and junior girls and boys from backgrounds (African American, Native American, Latino/a, and/or First Generation College) severely underrepresented in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines. Cornell Universitys world-renowned faculty and graduate students lead classes, lab sessions, and research projects designed for the participants in each academy. During the week, students work in teams conducting research and learning to solve problems that mirror real-life situations. In addition, social events, panel discussions, and other outof-classroom activities provide participants with opportunities to network informally with each other and Cornell faculty, staff, and students. More information about these programs can be found at http://www.engineering.cornell.edu/curie and http://www.engineering.cornell.edu/catalyst

Siemens We Can Change The World Challenge Submit by March 5, 2013 (Grades K 12)

YOUR STUDENTS HAVE THE POWER TO SHAPE THEIR FUTURE

Are you up for the challenge?

Register your team today to join the Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge, the premier national sustainability competition for grades K-12. Using a project-based inquiry approach, students learn about science and conservation while creating solutions that impact their planet.

Learn more and register at wecanchange.com.

WIN BIG
Teams compete for more than $300K in prizes such as scholarships, adventure trips, assemblies with Discovery Channel talent and more!

GET STARTED
Register online today to get your team started and access free resources like lesson plans, stepby-step guides, sample projects, and virtual labs that will help you support your students.

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE COMPLETED BY MARCH 5, 2013 .

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Subject to Official Rules available at wecanchange.com. 2012

High School Summer Internship Opportunities at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center Apply by March 15, 2013 (Students must be at least 16 Years of Age)
NASA OSSI/NIFS Online Application Website Open from November 1, 2012-March 15, 2013 To apply to 2013 Goddard High School Summer Internship Opportunities visit NASAs One Stop Shopping Initiative Recruiting NASA Interns, Fellows, and Scholars OSSI/NIFS https://intern.nasa.gov NASA Goddard Space Flight Center High School Summer Intern Programs engage interns in applications of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in a research-focused work environment at Goddard. Student interns learn and apply research protocols and processes related to Earth & space-systems science, computer science, engineering, and technology. Generally, a successful applicant meets/exceeds these basic qualifications: 1. At least 16 years of age at start of internship 2. Minimum 3.0 GPA (unweighted) on a 4.0 scale 3. U.S. citizen Interested students may create a profile and apply to a project(s) anytime during the open registration period, November 1, 2012-March 15, 2013. Projects will be added to the database on a continuing basis, so be sure to check back at https://intern.nasa.gov Goddard high school summer internships include, but are not limited to, the National Space Club Scholars Program (NSCSP) and mentor-funded opportunities. For information about the National Space Club Scholars Program and eligibility, visit http://www.spaceclub.org/programs/scholars.html To access the 2013 NASA OSSI/NIFS website and apply for available project positions, visit https://intern.nasa.gov For more information about NASA GSFC Summer High School Internship Opportunities, contact either Katherine Bender, katherine.j.bender@nasa.gov , or Dr. Evelina Felicite-Maurice, evelina.felicite-mauric-1@nasa.gov

FREE ASM Materials Camps: May 6th at WPI and May 13th at Boston Univ High School Sophomores or Juniors
ASM is offering a FREE educational event for High School sophomores and juniors. The ASM Materials Camp has been held at WPI for the past 8 years. ASM brings groups of sophomores and juniors through eight learning stations relating to aspects of materials science and engineering. ASM will be hosting students, FREE of charge, on two occasions this year: On May 6 at WPI and on May 13 at Boston University. Students from any geographical area are welcome to apply to the date/location of their choice. You can find some information on the events, including a flyer and links to application forms, on the ASM Boston website, http://asmboston.org/asm_materials_experience/2013_registration_info For more information contact: Patrick Hogan, 2013 ASM Materials Experience New England Planning Chair pathogan1@gmail.com

New!!! Hurricanes: Science and Society Webinar for 5th Grade Students May 8th and 9th
The Hurricanes: Science and Society (HSS) team at the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography (URIO/GSO) is excited to announce that it is again partnering with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) to offer hurricane preparedness webinars for 5th grade students in U.S. regions that are impacted by hurricanes. During these 1-hour webinars, students will hear from NHC scientists and forecasters, as well as NOAA Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) officers that fly into hurricanes. A presentation on region-specific hurricane science and preparedness will be given with interactive questions prompting student responses. Classroom questions will also be collected in advance of the webinar; as many of these questions as possible will be answered by the hurricane scientists. Many videos, visualizations, graphics, and other media will be included to engage students. Groups will also receive a virtual tour of the National Hurricane Center. We hope your classes will take advantage of this exciting opportunity! Webinars will be organized regionally (U.S. Gulf Coast, Southeast Atlantic Coast, and Northeast Atlantic Coast). Dates and times are listed below. Schools/classes wanting to participate MUST REGISTER in advance. Please visit the National Hurricane Center: 2013 5th Grade Webinars page in the Resources section of the Hurricanes: Science and Society website for more detail and registration information. Please note, registration will close one week in advance of each webinar. If you have any questions, please contact Holly Morin (holly_morin@mail.uri.edu).

NHC 2013 5th Grade Webinar Series: Northeast Coast Webinar(s): Wednesday, May 8, and Thursday May 9, 2013 (10am ET) *Northeast Coast states include: NJ, PA, NY, CT, RI, MA, VT, NH, & ME

Please note: attachments will be sent rarely. Most information will be posted online or included here to reduce the size of this message. Thank you.
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If you know of something that you feel is a quality resource, event, or opportunity (e.g., grant), please send a newsletter-ready blurb to peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov containing the following information by 3:00pm on Thursdays to be included in the Friday newsletter (subject to RIDE review and approval): 1. Type (e.g., grant, event, resource) 2. Name / Title of Event / Opportunity 3. Source or Event Sponsor 4. Web site, and/or contact name(s) and email address(es) 5. Description 6. Grade level(s) and/or intended audience 7. Deadline (if applicable) for time-sensitive submissions or event RSVPs THIS NOTICE IS DISTRIBUTED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. R.I Department of Education does not have any affiliation or responsibility to promote this information.

Peter J. McLaren
Science-Technology Specialist Office of Instruction Rhode Island Department of Education 255 Westminster Street Providence, Rhode Island 02903 401-222-8454

peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov