RI Science Professional Development and Student

Opportunity Bulletin
January 9, 2015
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.
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NGSS News

Reminders:
American Geosciences Institute (AGI)
Accepting Applications for the Edward C.
Roy Award for Excellence in Earth Science
Teaching Apply by January 10th
Nominate an Educator for the National
Teachers Hall of Fame Applications Due
January 10th
Online Course: Elementary Science and
STEM Course begins January 12th
Apply for the Boston Museum of Science What Do You Mean by STEAM? Institute Apply by
January 12th
New In This Bulletin:
NOAA Climate Steward Education Project Apply by January 18th
Edward Roy, Jr. Award for Excellence in K-8 Earth Science Teaching - Deadline January
20th
Fund for Teachers Professional Development Grants - Deadline January 29th
Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation "Green Schools" Match Opportunity Apply by
January 30th
Captain Planet Foundation Grants - Deadline for Application is January 31st
Teacher Grants from the NEA Foundation - Deadline February 1st
Bonnie Plant Farm Cabbage Program Scholarships Enter by February 15th
National Marine Educators Association's Marine Education Award Apply by April 1st
Job Opportunities:
Instructors Needed: Marine Science, Sailing & Adventure Sports
New England Science & Sailing (NESS) is seeking instructors who have experience working with kids, a strong
knowledge base of marine sciences and a contagious teaching energy for the summer of 2015, with the possibility of
extended work in the spring and fall. Our marine science curriculum has a strong STEAM (science, technology,
engineering, arts & math!) influence and we thrive at getting kids on and in the water. Instructors are responsible
for implementing an active, hands-on, experientially-oriented program including physically demanding work,
such as kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, body boarding, fishing, boat driving and some heavy
lifting. This is a high energy program where instructors spend long days working and teaching in a unique
environment. Our summers are extremely busy with ever-changing schedules due to weather, so we are looking for
instructors that are adaptable to change. We have high expectations in safety, curriculum development and of course
FUN!

Qualifications: Strong communication, decision making, logistical and organizational skills; outgoing and
enthusiastic personality; willingness to work long hours during season; BS or BA in marine science, biology,
oceanography, or related science; teaching experience; in-water supervision experience. Preference will be given to
candidates with USCG 6-Pack license, ARC waterfront lifeguarding, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First
Aid.
To apply: Download the position description and application from http://www.nessf.org/Employment/index.html and
mail, fax or email your resume and cover letter to Mike Smith, Program Director, msmith@nessf.org.

News:
Survey Indicates That STEM Skills Are Still in Demand but Gap Exists
A report on survey results released by Change the Equation and the Business Roundtable indicates that nearly 98% of
CEOs who replied to the survey indicate that a STEM skills gap continues to be an issue for filling positions. Learn
more.

Educators discuss student assessment under PBL

Project-based learning provides many opportunities to assess creativity, collaboration, communication and critical
thinking, but the model can present some challenges when assigning traditional grades, educators Matt Weyers and
Jen Dole write in this blog post. They discuss the challenges and some working solutions. Edutopia.org/PBL
Assessment blog (1/5)

How Creative Commons can help students choose online images

In this commentary, online professor and education technologist Kathy Shrock highlights the Creative Commons
project. She notes that a lesson on Creative Commons can help teach students about how to choose and cite online
images. eSchool News (free registration) (1/6)

NGSS News:
NGSS High School Evidence Statements Now Available
The NGSS Evidence Statements for High School are now available (evidence statements for elementary and middle
school are under development). These statements were developed by educators and scientists, including many
members of the NGSS writing team. The evidence statements are intended to identify clear, measurable components
that, if met, fully satisfy each performance expectation (PE) described within the NGSS.
Given that each PE is three-dimensional, the statements describe how students can use the practices, crosscutting
concepts, and disciplinary core ideas together to demonstrate proficiency on the PEs by the end of instruction. They
are not meant to limit or dictate instruction and were written to allow for multiple methods and contexts of
assessment, including assessing multiple related PEs together at the same time. For more information, see the Front
Matter.

Bill would repeal controversial science standard ban in Wyoming (Casper Star-Tribune)
A Sheridan Republican plans to sponsor legislation that would allow the Wyoming State Board of Education to adopt
science standards that were barred by lawmakers earlier this year. The bill would eliminate a budget footnote that
prohibited the board from spending money to review or adopt the Next Generation Science Standards, in part
because the guidelines indicate humans have contributed to global climate change -- controversial in Wyoming,
where fossil fuels extraction dominates the state's economy.

Teacher Resources:
App of the Week: On-demand Science Definitions
App name: Science Glossary
What is it? A glossary of scientific terms and short biographies that support the free science education website
athttp://www.visionlearning.com.
Best for: Students
Price: Free
Requirements: iOS 4.3 or later

Features: All definitions link to related terms and to free, detailed science learning modules. Though geared for high
school and undergraduate students using our website, the glossary and modules are appropriate for anyone generally
interested in science.

AcademyScope: Free National Academies Resources

AcademyScope is a visualization of all of the reports that are available on the National Academies Press website,
allowing you to browse through the reports of the National Academies by topic area and seeing relationships
between titles. Check out resources on the biology, history, the future trends of infectious disease--and the Education
section, which contains resources for K12 teachers.

Skype in the Classroom Science Lessons

Skype in the Classroom offers dozens of science lessons for all grade levels, including Earth and space science with
NASA, geology and ecology with Yellowstone National Park rangers, and STEM with Captain Barrington Irving's Flying
Classroom. The service enables teachers and students to connect with classrooms and experts worldwide and to take
virtual field trips. Teachers can also set up their own Skype in the Classroom lesson.

Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers

American Geosciences Institute (AGI) Accepting Applications for the Edward C. Roy Award
for Excellence in Earth Science Teaching Apply by January 10th
The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) is accepting applications for the Edward C. Roy Award for Excellence in Earth
Science Teaching. Given annually, this award is presented to one full-time K-8 teacher in the U.S. or U.K. whose
excellence and innovation in the classroom elevates students' understanding of the Earth and its many processes.
The winner of the Edward C. Roy Award will receive a cash prize and an additional travel grant to attend the National
Science Teachers Association Annual Conference in Chicago in March 2015. To be eligible, applications must be
postmarked by January 10, 2015.
The Edward C. Roy Award is given in honor of Dr. Edward C. Roy Jr., a strong and dedicated supporter of Earth science
education. A past president of AGI and former chair of the AGI Education Advisory Committee, Roy was a lifelong
supporter of teachers and students of all ages.
For more information on requirements, application procedures and deadlines, please visit
http://www.americangeosciences.org/education/awards/roy.

Nominate an Educator for the National Teachers Hall of Fame Applications Due January
10, 2015
Located in Emporia, Kansas, the National Teachers Hall of Fame (NTHF) has brought attention to the profession
through an annual recognition program that honors five of the nation's most outstanding teachers. Nominees must
have a minimum of 20 years of full-time preK12 teaching experience.
Ceremonies take place in June of each year. All expenses are paid by the NTHF. Following the induction, members
continue in their current endeavors and serve students and the field of education by becoming lifelong ambassadors.
Being an ambassador of the NTHF includes participating in webinars, workshops, and in a speaker's bureau, as well as
representing and marketing the NTHF through public appearances and educational endeavors. For more information,
click here.

Online Course: Elementary Science and STEM Course begins January 12th
This course provides educators the opportunity to understand and experience integration of STEM lessons into the
PreK-6 science curricula. Each of the courses 10 sessions will require two hours per week to complete. The course is
available through www.greatpd.com/moodle and can be taken on a credit or noncredit basis. The course will take
about 15 hours of time to complete, not including time spent on the final project. For more information, please
contact the course instructor, Bob Claymier. The noncredit course is available now, and the one-hour semester course
will begin on January 12, 2015.

Apply for the Boston Museum of Science What Do You Mean by STEAM? Institute Apply

by January 12th
The Museum of Science, Boston is currently accepting applications for What Do You Mean by STEAM? a free
institute for K-12 educators exploring the rich overlap between science, technology, engineering, math and fine arts.
This three day institute will take place at the museum Tuesday February 17- Thursday February 19, 2015 from
8:30am-3:30pm
Using the Museum's resources, we will highlight methods for fostering student creativity, collaboration, and critical
thinking through this cross-disciplinary approach to learning. We'll engage in activities incorporating a range of
media, including, but not limited to, performance, visual arts, writing, movement, and music to engage with STEM
curriculum in relevant and authentic ways. Collegial discussions will help participants reflect on these experiences and
begin to imagine connections to their own curriculum and teaching practice.
Participants will be selected by a competitive application process. Applications will be accepted through January 12,
2015. Participants will receive 18 Massachusetts PDPs upon successful completion of this professional development
program. Free parking will also be provided to all participants.
More information about the workshop, including registration information, can be found on our website at
http://www.mos.org/professional-development/what-do-you-mean-by-steam You can find information about all of
our upcoming professional development opportunities at http://www.mos.org/professional-development
Questions? Contact: Maggie Rabidou, Coordinator (mrabidou@mos.org )
Museum of Science, Boston
617-589-0174

Vernier Engineering Contest Applications Due by January 15, 2015

Vernier Software & Technology is accepting applications for its Engineering Contest, which recognizes STEM
educators for introducing students to engineering concepts and practices through innovative uses of Vernier sensors.
Each award will consist of $1,000 in cash, $3,000 in Vernier technology, and $1,500 toward expenses to attend either
the 2015 NSTA STEM conference or the 2015 ASEE conference. Three awards will be given: one for middle school, one
for high school, and one for college.
Educators who apply must submit a video showcasing the use of Vernier sensors in a project or experiment. The
sensors may be used in conjunction with Vernier's Logger Pro software, NI LabVIEW software, LEGO NXT or EV3, VEX,
or any other system incorporating Vernier sensors. Applications will be judged on innovation, engineering objectives,
and the ease by which others can replicate the project. Middle school and high school applicants are asked to
specifically explain how the project addresses the engineering practices called for in the Next Generation Science
Standards. More information about the competition can be found here.

Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award Applications Due by January 16, 2015
Do you know K-12 teachers or district-level administrators who are making a difference in education through the use
of technology? Recognize their achievements by nominating them for the Alan Shepard Technology in Education
Award. The Astronauts Memorial Foundation, in partnership with NASA and the Space Foundation, will recognize the
accomplishments of one outstanding individual and his or her contributions to lifelong learning through the
application of technology in the classroom or in the professional development of teachers. Technology personnel and
K-12 classroom teachers, who have demonstrated exemplary use of technology to enhance learning in STEM, are
eligible for this award. School principals, superintendents, or associate superintendents may nominate eligible
st
candidates. The award will be presented in April 2015 at the Space Foundations 31 Space Symposium in Colorado
Springs, CO. The deadline for applications is January 16, 2015. Applications and more information available online.
Click here if you have questions about this award.

Rhode Island Students of the Future FIRST LEGO League State Championship: Roger
Williams University January 17th
Rhode Island Students of the Future/FIRST LEGO League RI sponsored by National Grid - Upcoming FIRST LEGO
League Tournaments

FIRST LEGO League provides a season of STEM challenges for elementary and middle school students, culminating in
tournaments that are a celebration of science, engineering and technology.
60 FIRST LEGO League teams (see below) from across the state will compete in FIRST LEGO League Qualifying
tournaments in November and December. 40 of those teams will advance to the FLL State Championship.
Were excited about the FIRST LEGO League World Class Season said Rebekah Gendron, Board President of Rhode
Island Students of the Future and Operational Partner of the FIRST LEGO League Rhode Island. Teams have been
meeting regularly since September to build and program a robot to score points on the FLL World Class game field,
and to find innovative ways for people to learn.
National Grid takes Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education for students, our talent pipeline for
our future workforce, very seriously. said Tim Horan, National Grid Rhode Island.
The State Championship is open to the public from 11 AM - 4 PM.

January 17, 2015 FLL RI State Championship at Roger Williams University, Bristol, RI
January 24, 2015 FLL RI Robot Invitational at Bello Center, Bryant University

Spectators may order Free Tickets here: http://risfandfllri.eventbrite.com?s=28244275.

Information here: http://www.risf.net/first-lego-league/qualifier-system/
Rhode Island Students of the Future is supported by National Grid, SAIC, IEEE, Textron Charitable Trust, igus, and
Yushin America. Our University partners, the Humanity Centered Robotics Initiative at Brown University, Roger
Williams University, New England Tech, Salve Regina University and Bryant University, provide venues and in-kind
support for our tournaments and events.
General Contact: Mary Johnson 401-249-0110
Day of Tournament Contact: Rebekah Gendron 401-203-7473

NEW!!! NOAA Climate Steward Education Project Apply by January 18th

Calling all educators! Do you want to learn more about climate science? Become part of a science learning
community? Join other educators who are supporting climate resilience? Then you should become a NOAA Climate
Steward.
The Climate Steward Education Project (CSEP) provides formal and informal educators working with elementary
through university age students with sustained professional development, collaborative tools, and support to build a
climate-literate public that is actively engaged in climate stewardship. CSEP also provides support for educators to
execute climate stewardship (mitigation or adaption) projects with their audiences to increase understanding of
climate science and practical actions to reduce the impact of climate change.
There are two levels of involvement:
Level I: If you are only interested professional development opportunities in climate science and have no
interest in doing a stewardship project.
Level II: If you are interested in professional development opportunities and:
o Mini-grant funding up to $2000.00 to develop and implement a climate stewardship project;
o Travel stipends/reimbursements to attend and present at regional workshops &/or national
conferences;
o Special professional development opportunities; and
o CSEP contests with monetary and educational resource prizes.
Click here, for more information about the program.

NEW!!! Edward Roy, Jr. Award for Excellence in K-8 Earth Science Teaching - Deadline
January 20th
This award from the American Geological Institute is designed to recognize one teacher of grades K-8 for leadership
and innovation in Earth science education. For more information go to:
http://www.americangeosciences.org/education/awards/roy

U.S. Department of Education seeks applicants for Teaching, Principal Ambassador

Fellows Apply by January 20th
Applications for the U.S. Department of Educations 2015-2016 cohort of Teaching and Principal Ambassador
Fellows opened yesterday (December 18) and are scheduled to close on January 20, at 11:59 p.m. For more
information about the application process, visit our Teaching and Principal Ambassador Fellows program pages or go
directly to the applications for the Teaching and Principal Fellowships on USAJobs.gov.
Since 2008, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) has employed 87 outstanding teachers on a full- or part-time basis
through the Teaching Ambassador Fellowship program. Last year, ED piloted a Principal Ambassador Fellowship that
brought three highly-talented principals to work for the Department on a full- and part-time basis.
Teaching and Principal Ambassador Fellows are outstanding educators, with a record of leadership in the school
community, strong communication skills, and insights on education policy based in their school and classroom
expertise. They come with networks of support from their professional communities and have participated in a variety
of activities that have prepared them to write and speak frequently about instruction, school culture and climate,
educational leadership and policy.
Both of the highly selective programs reflect the belief that teachers and principals should have meaningful
opportunities to learn about and shape the policies that impact students and school communities nationwide. As
teachers and principals are often the most trusted sources of information about education policy for parents,
community members, colleagues, and students themselves, it is imperative to create more ways to link the
Departments programs, policies, and resources directly to the field.
The Ambassador Fellows have directly contributed to hundreds of activities at the Department and captured the
voices of thousands of teachers and principals from every state. They were particularly instrumental in the RESPECT
project and in inspiring and executing the Departments current Teach to Lead initiative. They were also critical
partners in offering flexibility around tying teacher evaluations to new assessments and addressing a culture of overtesting.
There are two different options for candidates. The Washington Fellowship is a full-time appointment, based at the
U.S. Department of Education headquarters in Washington. The Classroom Fellowship, on the other hand, enables
teachers and principals to participate on a part-time basis, while still allowing them to fulfill their regular school
responsibilities.
All Teaching Ambassador Fellows spend one year learning about key federal programs and policies, sharing their
expertise with federal staff members, and providing background on federal initiatives to other educators. This helps
teachers better understand and implement these efforts at the federal, state and local levels. For the Fellows, the
program provides greater knowledge of federal educational policy, strengthens their leadership skills, and gives them
the firsthand opportunity to address some of the challenging issues facing education today.
Great teachers and principalsplease consider applying and sharing this information with your colleagues! Sign up
for updates on the Teaching and Principal application processes, call (800) USA-Learn, or email us at
TeacherFellowship@ed.gov or PrincipalFellowship@ed.gov with questions.

NEW!!! Fund for Teachers Professional Development Grants - Deadline January 29th
Fund for Teachers Professional Development Grants: Deadline January 29
The Fund for Teachers Grant awards preK-12 teachers with funds to support professional development activities
during the summer. Check the website for complete details. http://www.fundforteachers.org/

Present at the National Marine Educators Association 2015 Conference in Newport: Call
for Presenters Submit by January 30th
The National Marine Educators Association 2015 Conferences Call for Presenters is open! Please consider presenting
a session at this years conference, held in scenic and historic downtown Newport, Rhode Island.

The theme of this years conference is Ocean State, Ocean Planet: Exploring Our World of Water. The conference
brings together formal and informal educators, scientists, students and government and industry members to share
ideas on the world of water. This year there are five conference tracks: in the classroom, out of the classroom, next
generation science standards (NGSS), todays scientific research, and partnerships with industry and government.
th

To visit the submission page, click here. Session submissions will be accepted through January 30

For questions, please contact Andrea Gingras, Programs Committee Co-Chair, at agingras@mail.uri.edu.

NEW!!! Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation "Green Schools" Match Opportunity

Apply by January 30th
NEW DEADLINE TO APPLY: JANUARY 30, 2015!
We are pleased to announce a call for projects for ioby's "Green Schools" match event. We are grateful to the Johnson
Ohana Charitable Foundation's fourth year of support to ioby, the funding from which is supporting the "Green
Schools" match.
This is a special opportunity to support schools who are starting a new environmental project. With the Johnson
Ohana Charitable Foundation "Green Schools" match, donations to your ioby campaign will be doubled.
The deadline to apply is Friday, January 30. Just fill out the quick & easy form below. The form should only take
about 15 minutes; it's not a formal application, rather it's a way for us to learn more about you.
Want some inspiration on starting a green project in your school? Check out the ioby Green Schools Guide, 5
Projects Any School Can Do to Make Environmental Learning Part of the Curriculum and Life in 5 Easy Steps,
with contributions from ioby Leaders Molly Culver, Sashti Balasundaram, Jared Cole, Colleen Kirk and Stacey Ornstein.
You can read it and download the guide by clicking here.
Want to learn more? Join us for an informational webinar:

Thursday, Jan 15 at 5:30-6pm EST (register here)

Saturday, January 24 at 12:00-12:30pm EST (register here)

Eligibility:
1.

The project budgets may not exceed $1,000. Donations to your campaign will be matched dollar for dollar
up to $500.

2.

The project must be new. It should be the first time the school has tried something like what you're
proposing.

3.

The project must be led by a school or on school property, and involve students.

4.

The project must be environmental.

Rules
To participate, you must agree to the following:
1.

You must apply by Friday, January 30. You'll hear back from us by Tuesday, February 3.

2.

You must have more than one more person on your team.

3.

You must attend the ioby Campaign Essentials" webinar training on February 11 at 6pm EST, as well as a 1hour group call on Monday, February 23 at 6pm Eastern.

4.

You must complete your ioby campaign content by February 11.

5.

You must begin the soft launch of your campaign anytime after February 11, and raise 25% of your budget
by 5pm on Wednesday, February 25.

6.

You must participate in a 24 hour public match event on Thursday, February 26.

7.

The match will double all donations to your campaign, dollar for dollar, up to $50 for a maximum of $500

per campaign.
Sample projects:

School garden

Fresh food sale

Composting program

Green infrastructure on school grounds

Healthy eating courses

Zero waste cafeterias

Recycling program
- See more at: http://ioby.org/green-schools#sthash.zro4AC82.dpuf

NEW!!! Captain Planet Foundation Grants - Deadline for Application is January 31st
The Captain Planet Foundation provides grants to school and community groups to support hands-on environmental
projects for youth in grades K-12. The objective of the foundation is to encourage innovative programs that
empower youth to work individually and collectively to solve environmental problems in their neighborhoods and
communities. .
http://captainplanetfoundation.org/apply-for-grants/

NEW!!! Teacher Grants from the NEA Foundation - Deadline February 1st
The NEA offers grants in two categories, including Student Achievement and Learning & Leadership." Both
programs have a Feb. 1 deadline. Student Achievement grants are designed to help teachers engage students in
critical thinking and problem solving in standards-based subject matter. Winning programs should also improve
students' inquiry, self-paced learning, and critical reflection skills. The Learning & Leadership grants fund professional
development experiences and collegiate study for educators. Grants range from $2,000 to $5,000.
http://www.neafoundation.org/pages/grants-to-educators/

Bradley Stoughton Award for Young Teachers Apply by March 1st

This award, offered by ASM International, recognizes a teacher of materials science, materials engineering, design,
and processing who has the ability to impart knowledge and enthusiasm to students. Nominees must be 35 years of
age or younger by May 15 of the award year and must be a member of ASM International. The award winner will
receive a check for $3,000 and a certificate. The annual deadline is March 1. Click here for more information.

$1000 Scholarships for Amazon Rainforest PD Workshop Register by March 1st

Educator Academy in the Amazon Rainforest + Machu Picchu
The July 1-11, 2015 Educator Academy in the Amazon Rainforest of Peru is a cross-curricular professional
development workshop for K-12 formal and informal educators to learn and use:
21st Century Instruction: 5E Lesson Design ~ Inquiry-Based Exploration ~ STEM
Inquiry Protocols & Resources: Project Learning Tree ~ Cornell Lab of Ornithology ~ & More!
Global and Cultural Perspectives: Service Learning ~ Sustainability ~ Global Education
Join Al Stenstrup, Project Learning Tree (PLT); Lilly Briggs (Cornell Lab of Ornithology), Christa Dillabaugh, Amazon
Rainforest Workshops; and Dr. David Pearson, Wildlife Travelers Guide to Peru; and work side-by-side with scientists
Dr. Steve Madigosky, Widener University; and Randy Morgan, Curator/Entomologist, Cincinnati Zoo as you:
Participate in citizen science projects and inquiry based field studies on a 1/4-mile Rainforest Canopy
Walkway in one of the most biologically diverse environments on the planet.
Spend a day in an Amazon village as you explore the complexities of sustainability and the role of education
in creating a sustainable future for Amazon children.
Work with fellow educators to explore strategies for using the Amazon as a vehicle for incorporating STEM
education, inquiry-based learning, and sustainability science education into your classroom.
PLT Certification, BirdSleuth resources and 50 ASU PD Hours included. Academic Credit and Machu Picchu Extension
optional. $1000 scholarship deadline March 1, 2015. Program cost is $1240 + air for scholarship recipients. Space is
limited! Register early to secure your spot!
Get the details and download a syllabus and scholarship application at: http://www.amazonworkshops.com/educatoracademy.html

Contact christa@amazonworkshops.com or 1-800-431-2624 for more information.

The Geological Society of America Northeastern Section Meeting: March 23-25 Registration
Now Open
The GSA Northeastern Section is celebrating its Golden Anniversary in 2015, and to do so it is retuning to the OmniMount Washington Resort by popular demand. The resorts graceful atmosphere, magnificent scenery, and cordial
staff will again furnish an extraordinary venue in which to share this special occasion. As those who attended the
section meeting in 2013 already know, the venue is unlike any other, and with this, the 2015 meeting is again shaping
up to be an informative, unusual, and not-to-be-missed occasion for professionals and students alike.
Abstract submissions are invited that highlight novel and unique pedagogical practices in geoscience courses. We
invite contributions that include techniques promoting a deeper understanding of geoscience concepts. These
techniques may vary in geoscience content, format (online or traditional), and audience.
Abstract submission deadline: 11:59 PM, Central Time, 9 December 2014 Details at:
https://gsa.confex.com/gsa/2015NE/cfp.epl
Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions: Jennifer (jhanselman@westfield.ma.edu)

Real World Science: Summer Teaching Seminar July 19th through 24th Apply by
March 6, 2015
REAL WORLD SCIENCEYESTERDAY, TODAY, AND TOMORROW
How Necessity Creates Innovation in Science and Technology
July 19-24, 2015 in New Orleans, LA
The National WWII Museum is excited to announce a week-long professional development opportunity to take place
in the summer of 2015 for middle school science teachers. Twenty eight teachers from across the country will come to
New Orleans to experience hands-on how necessity, knowledge, perseverance and skill lead to inventions, innovation,
and careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), just like in World War II.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE: The seminar application is open to any science teacher (public, public charter, private, and
parochial) with between 2 and 10 years of teaching experience in 5th-8th grade science, and who will be teaching a
science course to students in the same age group in the 2015-2016 school year. Applications will be evaluated
through a competitive process that will include information on teaching experience, a short written statement, and
two letters of recommendation.
COST: This seminar is supported by a grant from the Northrop Grumman Foundation. Teachers will receive free room
and board in New Orleans, a travel stipend, and all seminar materials free of charge.
IMPORTANT DATES:
JANUARY 5, 2015: Application period opens
MARCH 6, 2015: Application period closes
APRIL 1, 2015: Seminar participants selected and notified
JULY 19-24, 2015: Summer Teacher Seminar in New Orleans
SEPTEMBER 2015: Citizen Science Project begins
For more information, visit: http://www.nationalww2museum.org/realworldscience

Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Nominations

Open Nominate by April 1st, 2015
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest honor the United
States government bestows for K12 mathematics and science teaching. Up to 108 teachers may be recognized each
year. Presidential awardees receive a certificate signed by the President, a trip for two to Washington, D.C., to attend a
series of recognition events, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation (NSF). PAEMST's most recent

cohort of awardees even had the opportunity to meet with President Barack Obama.
The PAEMST program is pleased to announce that the 20142015 nomination period for grades 712 mathematics
and science (including computer science) teachers is now open! Please consider nominating a talented teacher using
the PAEMST website today. Applications open November 1, 2014. The nomination deadline is April 1, 2015, and the
application deadline is May 1, 2015.

NEW!!! National Marine Educators Association's Marine Education Award Apply by April
1st
The award is presented for outstanding work and leadership in any aspect of marine education at the local, regional,
or national level. It can be awarded to a member or a non-member of NMEA, for current or past accomplishments.
Documentation describing the nominee's career accomplishments in marine education, such as national and/or
regional impact, leadership, programs, etc., should be detailed in nomination package.
A complete nomination form, along with any recommendation letters and all other supporting materials, must be
received by the awards committee chair on or before April 1. All award recipients will receive a one-year NMEA
membership and an engraved award.

UMass Nanotechnology 2015 Summer Institute Apply by April 1st

Monday to Friday, July 13 - July 17, 2015 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 physics credits available at reduced cost; free PDP's(Professional Development Points)
Ongoing partnerships with UMass Faculty

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.

NEW!!! Apply for the TOMODACHI Toshiba Science and Leadership Academy for High
Students and Teachers Apply by May 4th
The TOMODACHI Toshiba Science & Technology Leadership Academy is an annual one-week, cross-cultural science,
technology, engineering, and math (STEM) exchange and leadership program for 16 high school students and eight

teachers from Japan and the United States In August, program participants from both countries will collaborate in
Tokyo to design a disaster-resilient, smart community of the future. With counsel from Toshiba engineers and a visit
to the Toshiba Smart Community building, the students and teachers will work in teams to develop proposed
solutions to problems using learning experiences that are central to the NGSS and the engineering design process.
Learn more.

SAVE THE DATES - 2015 Annual Conference of the National Marine Educators Association
(NMEA) in Newport , RI: June 29 July 2, 2015
SouthEastern New England Marine Educators (SENEME; http://seneme.org) is proud to be the host of the 2015
Annual Conference of the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA). The conference will be held June 29
through July 2 at the Newport Marriott, located in the center of downtown, historic, Newport, Rhode Island.
This event will be filled with a variety of sessions and plenaries led by dynamic speakers versed in the latest trends in
marine science and education (including STEM education and the Next Generation Science Standards). Unique,
regional field trips will include explorations of local flora and fauna, tours of historic mansions, learning about the
sailing tradition of Newport, and much more!
The NMEA Annual Conference is attended by formal and informal educators, scientists, and students from across
the U.S. and around the globe. Conference participants include those from public and private institutions,
aquariums, for profit and nonprofit organizations, as well as local and federal government agencies. Attendees can
choose the days they would like to attend participate in the conference for one day to concentrate on one session
track, or attend the entire event and absorb the full scope of information presented during conference lectures,
workshops, and other experiential learning opportunities in the Newport area.
Please mark your calendars and join SENEME in Newport, RI, June 29 to July 2, 2015! Stay tuned for future conference
updates- more information about the 2015 NMEA Conference can be found online at the NMEA website:
http://marine-ed.site-ym.com/general/custom.asp?page=NMEA_2015

Student Competitions and Grant Opportunities

Research Science Institute for 11th Grade Students Apply by January 16, 2015
The Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) co-sponsor the
Research Science Institute (RSI) and are looking for talented 11th Grade STEM Students! Do you have an interest in
Science Technology Engineering or Mathematics and a desire to complete a research program at an unforgettable
summer research program?
Apply to the (RSI) program to be held on the MIT campus June 21 to August 1, 2015. You will meet some of the
world's most talented students and top scientists and have an opportunity to conduct research in amazing labs! The
program is free to students except for travel to and from MIT. If you are a high school junior and interested in the
program, take a look at the CEE website or RSI application materials, and more information about the program.
See application information at: http://www.cee.org/apply-rsi
If youre interested, please contact Maite Ballestero, Vice President, Programs, maite@cee.org. See us on Facebook look for Center for Excellence in Education!

USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) Registration Opens Register by January 16th, 2015
You and your students are invited to participate in the 2015 USA Biology Olympiad (USABO). Registration is open now
for teachers and students! To register, please visit the USABO website https://www.usabo-trc.org/. Be
sure to check out the Biology Story of the day and to friend the USABO on Facebook.
Students should check the Student Corner for study resources and how to form a USABO
Club. Registration closes January 16, 2015. The final four students on Team USA will
compete at the International Biology Olympiad in Arhaus, Denmark, July 12 to 19
(http://ibo2015.org/). Contact Kathy Frame, USABO Director, at kframe@cee.org if you have any questions. We look

forward to your students participating!

Visit us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/USA-Biology-Olympiad/174800742579037

Registration Now Open for Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Program Deadline for project is
January 30th
Year 23 of the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision programthe world's largest K12 student science competitionofficially
kicks off today with registration now open. The deadline for all projects is January 30, 2015.
ExploraVision, which is sponsored by Toshiba and administered by NSTA, was created to help motivate young
students to excel in science and technology. Working in teams of two to four to design innovative technologies that
could exist in 20 years, students have the opportunity to win a $10,000 U.S. Savings Bond (at maturity). Canadian
winners receive Canada bonds purchased for the equivalent issue price in Canadian dollars. The program is also
offering great prize packages for the teachers and the school with the largest number of qualified teams. New this
year, to celebrate ExploraVision's 23rd anniversary, the top 23 teachers who submit more than 23 eligible online
entries will win a Toshiba Tablet.
Teachers can learn more about the 20142015 competition by watching ExploraVision's new video, hosted by Bill Nye
the Science Guy, or visiting the competition website. Follow ExploraVision on Twitter at @ToshibaInnovate or like
ExploraVision on Facebook.

NEW!!! Google Code-In 2014 Challenge - Deadline: January 31, 2015

Google is sponsoring its annual Code-In challenge, which asks students aged 13-17 worldwide to put their
technology skills to work. Students claim tasks from Open Source organizations in several categories, including
coding, documentation, and quality assurance. Their work on these tasks is then judged by each Open Source
organization. The challenge runs for seven weeks beginning December 1, 2014, and students are judged on their
bodies of work during the competition.
Prize: Students are eligible to receive a certificate, T-shirts, hooded sweatshirts for completing tasks. Grand prize
winners receive a trip to Googles headquarters in California. For more information click here

Call for Entries: The 2015 DuPont Challenge Competition (DuPont) Apply by January
31st
Inspiring the next generation of innovators at the forefront of scientific discovery has been a goal of The DuPont
Challenge Science Essay Competition for the past 29 years. This year, The DuPont Challenge is pleased to announce a
new division and expanded grade levels: the new Elementary Division is open to students in grades K-5, the Junior
Division is now open to students in grades 6-8, and the Senior Division is now open to students in grades 9-12, from
across the United States, Canada and U.S. Territories.
For more information click here

STEM Youth Rover Challenge sponsored by The Mars Society Deadline for Submission is
January 31st
The Youth Rover Challenge is a multi-tier robotics education development program that is hosted, sponsored and
operated by The Mars Society. The program commenced on August 6th, 2013 to commemorate the one year
anniversary of the landing of NASAs Curiosity Rover. YRC is a STEM related educational effort that is designed for
schools and organizations with students or members in grades 5-12 to have the chance to build and compete at a
global level with a LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0 based robotic rover and competition arena intended to simulate the
surface of Mars. The sandbox where the robotic rover operates is intended to be replicated so participants can
operate the competition locally at your school, home or club. Winners of the best place times will be invited to one of
4 events held in each region.
The Rover built for the competition is pre-designed to accomplish specific experiments (tasks) similar to what Mars
Rovers accomplish on the surface of Mars and other harsh environments on remote places on Earth. The competition

is operated on-site at your self-built sandbox and the final operation of the field tasks are then videotaped and sent
to YRC for submission. Teams that have submitted videos that show the final operation of the rover completing the
tasks under a time limit are then ranked against other teams.
The challenge and its operation is designed to prepare students for the The Mars Society University Rover
Challenge that has operated successfully for the last 8 years directed by The Mars Society.
Register at http://youthrover.com/registration-form/
More information can be found at http://youthrover.com/ or by emailing Nicole Willett at Nicole.Willett@bcsav.net

Christopher Columbus STEM Awards for Middle School Students Deadline for
Submission is February 2nd
The Christopher Columbus Awards for Middle School Students is a community-based STEM program. Students work
in teams of three to four, with an adult coach, to identify a problem in their community and apply the scientific
method to create an innovative solution to that problem.
http://www.christophercolumbusawards.com/

NEW!!! Bonnie Plant Farm Cabbage Program Scholarships Enter by February 15th
Bonnie Plant Farm will award a $1,000 scholarship to one third grader in each state (except Alaska and Hawaii) for
participating in the third-grade cabbage program. The drawing will be done by state agriculture department
representatives and is based on the size and maturity of the cabbage grown by the student. Plants will be delivered in
early spring 2015. Students will then have until September 16, 2015, to grow their cabbage and submit their entries.
Click here for more information.

National STEM Video Game Challenge Open For Submissions (Game Politics) Enter by
February 25th
Student submissions for original video games and game designs to the National STEM Video Game Challenge are
now open. The national contest is presented by E-Line Media, the Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop and
the Smithsonian. The Challenge aims to motivate young people to be more interested in [STEM] learning by using the
power of playing and making video games. Now in its fourth year, the competition is held in partnership with
founding sponsor the Entertainment Software Association and the s support of the Institute of Museum and Library
Services (IMLS), The Grable Foundation, AARP, and Mentor Up.
The National STEM Video Game Challenge is accepting entries from U.S. students in two categories: Middle School
and High School. The Middle School category is open to students in grades five through eight, while the High School
category is open to students in grades nine through twelve. Both categories accept entries for individuals and teams
of up to four students. Entries can be created using any game creation platform or a written game design concept
document can be submitted.
Judges will select winners for each game creation platform in both categories. Each winner will receive a cash prize of
$1,000, as well as game design and educational software. Each winners sponsoring organization will receive a cash
prize of $2000.
The National STEM Video Game Challenge is accepting entries through February 25, 2015. Complete guidelines and
details on how to enter are available at www.stemchallenge.org.

The DuPont Challenge Elementary Division Enter by March 15th

How can we make the world a healthier, safer, better place for ourselves and for future generations? The DuPont
Challenge Elementary Division is calling on all young scientists in grades K-5 to find out! Using a combination of
STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) skills and creativity, classrooms are asked to create their
own science story that provides an answer to a Challenge that is facing their community.

Each grade level has three Challenge options to choose from, based on the Next Generation Science Standards
(NGSS). With the help of their classroom teacher, students will research, observe, analyze, and discover their answer,
presenting their findings in a science story book or presentation. Learn more at:
http://thechallenge.dupont.com/elementary/challenges/

ITEEAs Childrens Council Offers Paper Engineering Contest for Students of Grades PreK
6 Enter by April 24th, 2015
ITEEAs Childrens Council is sponsoring a paper engineering contest for all PreK-6 students in the United
States. The contest supports two of the Childrens Councils goals: to promote childrens creativity, ingenuity, and
design-based problem-solving skills and to promote the study of technology and engineering as a vital aspect in
every elementary school. The contest will consist of four divisions: PreK-K, 1-2, 3-4, 5-6. Click here for full contest
information. Questions? Email Bob Claymier.

Please note: attachments will not be sent. Most information will be posted online or included here to
reduce the size of this message.
Thank you.
--------------------------------------------------

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 Thursday 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