The intent of this publication is to inform state science stakeholders as to happenings across the State of Iowa with regards to science education. If you have any questions about the contents of this document, please reach out using the contact information provided in each section, or directly to Chris Like at the Iowa Department of Education.
The National Science Foundation is currently accepting nominations and applications for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) program. PAEMST are the highest honors bestowed by the United States government specifically for K–12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teaching. Since 1983, more than 5,000 teachers have been recognized for their contributions to STEM education. Awardees serve as models to their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of STEM education. Up to 108 awardees may be recognized each year.
The PAEMST program is open to outstanding STEM teachers in the 50 states; Washington, D.C.; the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; Department of Defense Education Activity schools; and the U.S. Territories as a group.
Anyone—principals, teachers, parents, students, or members of the general public—may nominate a teacher by completing the nomination form available on the PAEMST website. To submit a nomination, you will need the teacher’s name, email address, and school contact information. If you know more than one teacher deserving of this award, you may submit more than one nomination. Teachers may also apply directly at www.paemst.org.
Presidential Awardees receive a certificate signed by the President of the United States; a trip to Washington, D.C., to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities; and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. They also join a network of award-winning teachers from across the country. The National Science Foundation administers PAEMST on the behalf of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
The nomination deadline is January 9, 2023 and the application deadline is February 6, 2023 for SECONDARY (7-12). ELEMENTARY(K-6) will be eligible to apply during a future cycle. (One-page Flyer with more information)
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The annual fall meeting of the Iowa Association of Physics Teachers will take place on Nov. 19th at Loras College in Dubuque. They have a new planetarium which we will get a tour of at this meeting.
The Iowa State University Undergraduate Microbiology Club will be holding a Microbiology Workshop for high school students on Friday, November 11, 2022. This workshop is a unique opportunity to give high school students with an interest in biology the chance to participate in laboratories, tours and activities to introduce them to the exciting world of microbiology! For more information please visit the link above.
A Design Competition is a high-intensity industry-simulation event, in which students adopt professional roles, are given industry specific challenges, and deliver real-world solutions.
Our events run over the course of a single weekend, with industry professionals volunteering their time to support students in designing an entire futuristic space settlement, and pitch their design before a panel of industry experts.
The Biotechnology Outreach Education Center is offering a unique option to connect K-12 teachers and students to relevant Iowa State University research projects. We partner with K-12 teachers to bring innovative and exciting experiences to students. Visits can be tailored to students' learning needs while featuring cutting-edge research done right here in Ames!
Youth ages 4-12!! Learn about Chemistry, Geology, and Horticulture as you help NASA scientists gather data on what it takes to grow food on the moon.
**Relicensure Credit Available
We will start meeting again to learn about strategies that help implement Iowa’s Science Standards, share and hear about real-world examples from Iowa classrooms, and collaborate with educators from across the state. All sessions will take place from 4:00-5:30 pm via Zoom.
This year’s problem of practice will be centered around how actionable feedback can help with student sensemaking.
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Session 1 (Tuesday, Nov 1st): How do we establish the best environment for actionable feedback?
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Session 2 (Tuesday, Dec 6th): How can feedback be used as part of the learning process?
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Session 3 (Tuesday, Jan 31st): How can we give actionable feedback to all students in an efficient way?
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Session 4 (Tuesday, Feb 21st): How can we give and receive actionable feedback as teaching professionals?
Please complete this short Google form to register for the virtual sessions and to receive related resources. If you are interested in earning license renewal credit for your participation in the Iowa Science Learning Community, click here.
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Biotechnology Outreach at ISU
Starting November 4 at 5:00 PM - November 19 at 3:00 PM Online/Virtual Only
The "Innovative Practices'' workshop aims to reignite participants' curiosity and empower teachers to become game-changers. Experiences provide direct connections between Iowa's K-12 science standards and the cutting-edge research on the Iowa State University campus. This workshop session will be held online during two Friday evenings and two full-day Saturday synchronous gatherings.
December 3rd from 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Molecular Biology Building, Iowa State University Campus 2437 Pammel Dr, Ames, IA
These on-campus workshops leverage Iowa's science education standards and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to help grow teacher expertise through an interactive and informative one-day experience. After successful participation in the workshop, teachers can request the equipment and consumable supplies necessary to complete a PCR Investigation with their own students through the BOEC supply lending program.
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School Leaders should support teachers' professional growth and locate resources that support the vision of science education.
Promoting opportunities aligned with NASA’s mission by stimulating research, education, and outreach programs for all Iowans.
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The Iowa Science Foundation currently distributes $40,000 per year with up to $5,000 allowed per grant. The submission deadline for awards is January 31st.
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Dedicated to building a strong STEM education foundation for all Iowans. This group offers ScaleUp Grants, awards for teachers, and larger STEM BEST Grant Awards for innovative STEM programs.
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REAP stands for Resource Enhancement and Protection, a program in the State of Iowa that invests in the enhancement and protection of the state's natural and cultural resources. Depending on the individual programs, REAP provides money for projects through state agency budgets or in the form of grants
Sand County Foundation Pollinator Habitat Grants!!
This competitive grant program gives students hands-on experience growing native forbs indoors and establishing pollinator habitat. Successful applicants will receive prairie seeds and seedlings, an orientation and consultation, and $1,000 to support project expenses. The deadline for proposals is November 18th, 2022.
To be eligible you must be a high school teacher, have access to a suitable indoor growing area, identify a site (working/agricultural lands preferred), and be located in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, or Wisconsin.
Visitwww.sandcountyfoundation.org/schoolgrants for details. Please feel free to contact Haley Diem at hdiem@sandcountyfoundation.org for more information!
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ISTS advocates for excellence in science education by promoting professionalism, informing policy, and enhancing learning.
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A vibrant community of 40,000 members — science educators and professionals committed to best practices in teaching science and STEM and its impact on student learning.
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IAAPT: Iowa Section of The American Association of Physics Teachers
Join a passionate group of Physics Teachers from across the state. Contact Dale Stille for information.
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The National Science Teachers Association offers a ton of resources for classroom teachers surrounding safety in the science classroom including position statements on safety and liability.
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