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Office of Curriculum & Instruction
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February 2026
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Office of Curriculum & Instruction
The Michigan Department of Education has reorganized its internal structure with the creation of the Office of Curriculum and Instruction. The new office includes consultants that support science, mathematics, social studies, literacy, alternative education, graduation requirements (MMC and Personal Curriculum), dual enrollment, flexible learning options, and innovative instructional pathways. Review the MDE memo for additional details.
Classroom Resources & Student Opportunities
Earth Day Poster Contest
Grades K-5th
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy invites students in kindergarten through 5th grade to enter the annual Michigan Earth Day Poster Contest! Prizes are awarded for 1st and 2nd place winners in each grade. Use the online submission form to submit posters by March 16, 2026.
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2.5 Million Acts of Science
Grades K-12th
An Act of Science is any real way you help science. SciStarter is working toward a shared goal of 2.50 Million Acts of Science, marking America’s 250th Birthday through collective discovery, service, and impact. Join a citizen science project to participate today.
Airport Design Challenge
Grades K-12th
During the Airport Design Challenge, students have the opportunity to design virtual airports in Minecraft based on guidance from FAA aerospace and engineering experts. Participating students meet aviation professionals, engage with other designers, and learn about the aerospace industry. The challenge offers first-hand experience in an aviation-related application of STEM concepts and helps students apply their academic knowledge and skills to professional simulations. Registration deadline is March 25, 2026, with a final project deadline of August 31, 2026.
An Outdoor Adventure
Grades K-2nd
Whether it’s recess, a nature walk, observing an outdoor phenomenon, or quiet reading time, being in nature is good for academics and wellbeing. In this lesson students will learn about the rainforest, take a nature walk, and compare their environment to the rainforest. This resource provides alignment to the science standards, videos, classroom activities, and lesson plans.
Genes in Space Contest
Grades 7th-12th
Have you ever wondered how astronauts might survive a deep-space mission or how we might be able to use biology to transform new worlds? If so, Genes in Space is for you! Genes in Space is a science contest that challenges students to design original experiments that use biotechnology to explore the real-life challenges and opportunities of space exploration. The winning experiment is conducted by astronauts aboard the International Space Station! Submission deadline is April 10, 2026.
Salmon in the Classroom
Grades 3rd-12th
Salmon in the Classroom provides countless opportunities for students to connect with Michigan's natural resources. Teachers are equipped with professional development, a classroom activity guide, a program manual and video playlists to support the program in their classrooms. Application deadline is April 15, 2026.
Michigan Student Sustainability Summit
Grades 6th-12th
The Michigan Student Sustainability Summit is a unique opportunity for middle and high school students across Michigan to connect with peers, learn about the state’s environmental sustainability efforts, network with state leaders and community partners, and celebrate the impact of youth-led stewardship projects. Through interactive breakout sessions, field experiences, and exhibits, participants will explore environmental career pathways, develop place-based projects, and engage with experts on Michigan’s air, water, land, energy, and ecosystem services.
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Environmental Service Award Nominations
Grades 6th-12th
Nominate a student, group, or class for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Environmental Service Award, which recognizes exceptional environmental projects completed by youth in grades 6-12. Two projects will be awarded a cash prize and certificate of achievement: one in grades 6-8, and one in grades 9-12. Nomination deadline is March 15, 2026.
Eye on the Future Teen Video Contest
Grades 9th-12th
The National Eye Institute is excited to announce the Eye on the Future Teen Video Contest—an opportunity for students in grades 9–12 in the United States or its territories to enter for a chance to win a cash prize! Submission deadline is April 19, 2026.
PAVE Essay Contest
Grades 11th-12th
The PAVE Essay Contest and Scholarship Program encourages high school students to imagine a world with autonomous vehicles and write about what this new technology would mean for their communities. Contest winners earn scholarship funds for college, and an award ceremony gives them an opportunity to experience an autonomous vehicle firsthand. Share this flyer with students and families. Submission deadline is February 28, 2026.
World of 8 Billion Student Video Contest
Grades 6th-12th
The World of 8 Billion Student Video Contest invites middle and high school students worldwide to take on the challenge of creating a 60-second video that explains how population growth affects one of this year’s three global topics and presents a creative, sustainable solution. Over 80 student winners will receive up to $1,200 in cash prizes. Mini grant opportunities for educators. Student submissions are due March 4, 2026.
Girls on Outdoor Adventure for Leadership in Science
Grades 9th-12th
Girls on Outdoor Adventure for Leadership & Science, is a free two-week summer outdoor education and science program for high school students. The program is designed to build leadership skills, confidence, and a connection to science and the outdoors. We are especially committed to reaching students who are historically underrepresented in STEM, though all students are welcome to apply. Share this flyer with students and families. Application deadline is March 2, 2026.
Environmental Fridays
Grades 9th-12th+
Environmental Fridays is a free online guest lecture series for high school and early college students. Guest speakers share real-world examples, and include university professors, environmental consultants, environmental activists, environmental attorneys and government experts from the United States, Caribbean and around the world. Tune in on Fridays at 9:30am (EST) via Zoom, review spring 2026 schedule for Zoom meeting ID and a list of topics.
Summer Camp Opportunities
Grades and Costs Vary
Mars to Table Challenge
Open to All Global Citizens
Astronauts on extended missions to the surface of Mars and the Moon will require food systems that are completely independent of Earth. To address this, NASA is running the new Deep Space Food Challenge: Mars to Table. This global competition asks participants to create a complete meal plan for a crew on Mars, along with concepts for food systems that use a variety of food sources and technologies to meet a crew’s nutritional needs. The challenge will officially conclude in September 2026 and has a total prize purse of $750,000. Registration deadline is July 31, 2026.
Internship with NASA's Neurodiversity Network
Grades 9th-12th
NASA’s Neurodiversity Network (N3) is accepting applications for summer interns to work on projects with NASA scientists. N3 provides experiences for outstanding high school students, including those who identify as autistic, to spark interest in STEM careers. Participants complete approximately 160 hours of remote work during a flexible summer schedule and will receive a $1k stipend. Applicants must have completed pre-calculus and at least two years of physical science courses. Application deadline is March 1, 2026.
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Professional Resources & Opportunities
MSTA Annual Conference
March 6-7, 2026 | Kalamazoo, MI | Cost to Participate
Join over 600 Michigan-based science educators for a weekend of high-energy learning and professional growth at the annual Michigan Science Teacher Association conference. Discover practical, hands-on workshops, network with like-minded science geeks, and recharge your passion for science education.
Science M-STEP Educator Committees
Dates Vary by Committee | Lansing, MI | Stipend
Did you know the Science M-STEP is written by Michigan science educators? Science educators have multiple opportunities to participate in M-STEP assessment committees. Whether you want to review existing items for content, bias, and sensitivity; participate in the writing process; or review data from field tested items; you will work with a team of educators to ensure a high-quality science M-STEP administration. Educators can receive a stipend for their expertise, contributions, and time. Review the complete list of 2026 committees and dates and apply today.
Academy of Natural Resources
ANR Classic July 12-7, 2026 and ANR North August 2-7, 2026
The Academy of Natural Resources offers educators the opportunity to learn about Michigan's diverse natural resources, discover current trends in their management and experience activities that bring knowledge to the classroom. Educators learn how EGLE uses data, mapping, and monitoring to identify and solve environmental problems. Perfect for middle and high school educators looking to inspire stewardship, critical thinking, and meet academic standards through Michigan-focused content. Cost to participate, registration open until all spots are filled.
Disciplinary Literacy
Reading Apprenticeship Academic Literacy Learning Grant
Grades 8th-9th | Academic Years 2026-27 & 2027-28 | Stipends
Take part in a study of RA4ALL, a research-based curriculum that combines Reading Apprenticeship for Academic Learning and SIPPS® Challenge. The curriculum helps 8th and 9th graders improve their literacy and reading skills and provides strong professional development for teachers. Accepting applicants in AZ, CA, MD, MI, NC, NM, PA, and UT.
Disciplinary Literacy in Action: Place, Problem, & Project-Based Learning
May 28, 2026 | Schoolcraft College, Livonia, MI | $95 Registration
Join us as we bring the Disciplinary Literacy Essentials to life through place-, problem-, and project-based learning. Through keynotes, breakout sessions, and community partnerships, we will explore how to grow and strengthen active learning in schools and districts to increase student engagement and maximize student achievement. By encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and inquiry around relevant topics, we can ensure students feel like they belong, have a sense of academic ownership, and have the knowledge and skills they need to be ready for college, career, culture, and civic life. This event is open to teachers and leaders across disciplines. Registration closes May 21, 2026.
Are you interested in sharing how you're implementing 3P? Submit a proposal by March 13, 2026, for an opportunity to waive your registration fee and present at the event!
Disciplinary Literacy Taskforce Newsletter
February 2026 Newsletter
Eco-Book Group Sessions
March 25, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Virtual
In this virtual session offered in collaboration with the Michigan Climate Action Network, we will discuss A Psalm for the Wild-Built, by Becky Chambers. This is a sci-fi novella in a solarpunk setting to help us better envision what a more resilient and just future could look like. Its themes include searching for purpose and contentment. Registration is free.
April 13, 2026 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Virtual
In this virtual session offered in collaboration with the Michigan Climate Action Network, we will discuss What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futures, by Ayana Elizbaeth Johnson. A Smithsonian Best Book of the Year, this provocative and joyous book maps an inspiring landscape of possible climate futures through diverse guests and their visions for a better future world. It is an anthology of essays, interviews, and art. One note: this book is ripe for picking sections of special interest, but it is not a short book, so start reading early! Registration is free.
Old Data, New Insights: Tracking Invasive Plant Trends
March 25, 2026 | 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
In this Not MI Species Webinar, Michigan Department of Natural Resources staff will share how the Parks and Recreation Division is translating legacy point data collections to uncover trends in invasive species management across Michigan’s state parks. Are the infestations increasing, decreasing or remaining unchanged? Find out when you join them to learn about the challenges, considerations and future directions of Geographic Information Systems – GIS – in invasive species management. Registration is free.
MI Green Schools Application Period is Open
Deadline: March 8, 2026
Schools across Michigan can now apply to become a certified MI Green School for the 2025–2026 school year. MI Green Schools supports and celebrates the achievements of PreK-12 schools in protecting the state's air, land, water, and ecosystems through their commitments to environmental education and stewardship actions.
Blue Technology Education Workshop
July 16, 2026 | Cambridge, MD | $50 Registration
Dive into innovation at the first Blue Technology Education Workshop, hosted by NOAA Ocean Exploration at the 2026 NMEA Annual Conference. This full-day professional development opportunity is designed for early-career educators eager to bring the excitement of ocean engineering and exploration technology into their classrooms. Registration will open with NMEA conference registration in April 2026.
Resilient Futures Teacher Workshop
July 28-30, 2026 | Boulder, CO | Registration Fee
Middle school and high school educators are invited to a three-day in-person Resilient Futures Teacher Workshop. Engage with sessions on education resources, including scientist talks, lab tours, and networking sessions by CEEE, NOAA, and friends. This session will cover topics such as climate science, natural hazards, water resources, climate mental health, data literacy, and more. Graduate credits available.
Nominations for National Association of Biology Teacher Awards
OBTA Deadline: March 1, 2026 | Other Awards: March 15, 2026
NABT awards recognize teachers for their expertise in specific subject areas, for contributions to the profession made by new teachers, and to recognize service to NABT, life science teaching, or leadership in learning communities. Each state, province, and territory can also recognize an Outstanding Biology Teacher (OBTA).
ICYMI: State Department Newsletters
Resources Supporting K-12 Science & Engineering Education
Using Performance Tasks to Support Instruction
Performance tasks are more than just end-of-unit tests; they are rich opportunities for students to apply their science knowledge and practices to make sense of phenomena or solve problems. Beyond simply measuring learning, these tasks can serve as powerful instructional anchors that help you guide learning in real time. Guidance for using performance tasks to support science instruction is now available on the Authentic Tasks for Learning and Assessment in Science (ATLAS) website.
Engaging Students in Computational Thinking During Science Investigations
Multiple Dates & Opportunities | Cost to Participate
The STEM Teaching Tool Engaging Students in Computational Thinking During Science Investigations describes the variety of practices that can be utilized in science to support this SEP, including coding. The CSforMichigan Collaborative is offering several virtual workshops for educators at all levels, including AI Foundations, CS Principals, and CS Discoveries.
Climate and Equity Fellows
July 26 - August 1, 2026 | Acadia National Park, Maine | Stipend
TERC, in partnership with the MacArthur Foundation, will welcome 18 high school educators as Climate and Equity Fellows for the 2026 Climate and Equity Institute, an all-expenses-paid, weeklong experience focused on teaching about climate change and equity. The Institute brings together educators from diverse communities to share practice, collaborate with experts, strengthen curriculum, and find renewed purpose while learning and reflecting in a stunning natural setting. Applications must be submitted by March 16, 2026.
Understanding Different Perspectives About Evolution
In this January 2026 Report of the National Center for Science Education, several Venn diagrams are presented to understand three overlapping domains that influence perceptions of evolution: someone’s personal ideology, their understanding of biology, and their understanding of the nature of science.
Middle School Science Teachers NIST Summer Institute
July 6-17, 2026 | Gaithersburg, MD | Stipend
The NIST Summer Institute is a hands-on workshop where middle school science teachers can access resources from the nation’s premier standards and measurement laboratory. The workshop will provide teachers with instructional materials, classroom-based learning modules, and ideas to use in their teaching and will focus on NIST measurement science. In addition to obtaining ideas and activities to incorporate into lesson plans, teachers receive materials to use for activities with their students based on what they learned during the program.
Participating teachers receive a stipend and travel allowance. Application deadline is May 1, 2026.
Webinar: 3D Thursdays for Rural Educators
March 5, 2026 | 8:00 p.m. | Virtual
The Join NASA’s Science Mission Directorate for a monthly series that connects rural educators to resources, networking, and professional development opportunities. This month’s webinar will feature Tanya Anderson, the director of education for the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS-USA) program. Learn how ARISS-USA can connect your students with astronauts living and working on the International Space Station via 10-minute radio calls. Registration is free.
Teach Engineering Champions Institute
July 23-24, 2026 | Boulder, CO | Stipend
Elevate your impact as a STEM leader by applying for the Teach Engineering Champions Institute, a fully funded professional development program for formal and informal K-12 educators held in Boulder, Colorado. This 2-day immersive workshop leverages the Teach Engineering digital library and offers participants advanced training, resources, and networking opportunities to lead the integration of engineering principles in their communities. Applications are open through March 15, 2026.
Tornadoes in February? It's Michigan!
March & April Dates/Locations TBD | Cost to Participate
The recent forecast by meteorologist Mark Torregrossa, “Michigan’s Next Storm is Closer to Tornadoes Than a Snowstorm” (MLIVE, Feb. 18, 2026), touches upon something we all know too well: the unpredictability of Michigan’s weather. This is attributable to the impact of air masses which often bring about rapid and dramatic changes in temperature and other weather variables that are superimposed over the annual patterns we have come to expect in particular seasons. In this workshop participants will learn what some of the major factors are behind the seasonality of our weather patterns and how air masses can influence them. Dr. Lilienfeld will also show how she has used some of her favorite “go-to” real-time weather web sites to illustrate concepts. Hands-on activities will be distributed. Review additional session details and contact Dr. Amy Lilienfeld at amy@circleofillumination.com to schedule district or regional session ($350 per workshop, scholarships available)
Project Scientist
April 1, 2026 | 12:30 p.m. | Virtual | Stipend
Are you ready to spark a love for science, technology, and innovation? Project Scientist is looking for enthusiastic educators and mission-driven organizations to lead joyful, hands-on STEAM programs for girls in grades PreK–12. Join our virtual Program Partner Information Session to learn how you can host a Fall 2026 program. Our partners receive: ready-to-use curriculum & all hands-on materials, professional training, financial stipends for facilitation and data collection, connection to STEM role models eager to share their stories with youth.
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Grants & Funding Opportunities
EPA Environmental Education Grants
Deadline: March 3, 2026
Environmental Education Grants support environmental education projects that promote environmental awareness and stewardship and help provide people with the skills to take responsible actions to protect the environment.
MAEOE Grants
Deadline: March 15, 2026
The Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE) offers environmental and outdoor education grants to both formal and nonformal educators who are MAEOE members. Grants awarded may be up to $1000 and applications are due by March 15, 2026. If awarded a grant, you have until November 1 to complete your project which must include an outdoor component.
From Students to Stewards
Coming Soon!
The From Students to Stewards Initiative is a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's MiSTEM Network, and the Michigan Department of Education to grow future water stewards and leaders, helping students from elementary through high school learn about the Great Lakes, Michigan’s watersheds, and how people affect water resources across the state. Two grant opportunities will be released soon to boost freshwater literacy programs and increase access to real-world STEM experiences for K-12 students.
Wishes Granted: A Grant Writing Course for Teachers
Free On-Demand Virtual Course | 38 minutes
Wishes Granted is a grant writing course designed to help teachers maximize their budgets and secure funding for enhanced learning experiences. Discover how you can unlock funding to transform your classroom with this expert-led grant writing course designed for teachers.
Michigan Space Grant Consortium
Rolling Application Window Throughout the Year
The MSGC K-12 Educator Incentive Program is designed to: encourage teachers to engage in STEAM educational enhancement activities, such as conferences and workshops, related to mathematics, science, and technology; and purchase materials and supplies for innovative instructional initiatives.
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Save the Dates
Links are to organization websites where you will find event details, costs, and registration information as it becomes available.
Michigan Science Education Leadership Association
- MiSciPLN: May 6, 2026 | Virtual
National Science Education Leadership Association
Michigan Science Teacher Association
Metropolitan Detroit Science Teachers Association
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2026 Spring In-Person Workshops (Cost to Participate)
- Robotics PreK-12 | March 10, 2026 | 5-7pm
- Hands-On STEM Learning with Hex Bugs | March 10, 2026 | 5-7pm
- 2026 Fall Conference: October 3, 2026
National Science Teacher Association
MSU Science Festival
Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education
EGLE Earth Day Events
National Agriculture in the Classroom
Michigan Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers
American Association of Physics Teachers
Michigan Association of Biology Teachers
National Association of Biology Teachers
Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association
- Sinkhole Workshop: May 2, 2026 | Alpena, MI
- Porcupine Mountains Field Trip: July 2026
- Great Lakes Star Gaze: September 10-13, 2026 | Millersburg, MI
- Rock Party: September 19, 2026 | Fish Lake, MI
National Earth Science Teachers Association
Place-Based Education
- 2027 National Conference: TBD
STEM Ecosystems
- 2026 Annual Convening: TBD
Michigan Climate Action Network
- Visit Events on website for a complete list
Climate Change Education Solutions Network
Michigan Space Grant Consortium
Michigan Association of Bilingual Education
Michigan Construction Career Days
- April 29-30, 2026 | Howell, MI
Michigan Alternative Education Organization
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Quick Links
Michigan Department of Education
National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine
MiSTEM Network
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, & Energy
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
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Disclaimer: This newsletter contains hypertext links to information created and maintained by other public and private organizations. These links are provided for the user’s convenience. The Michigan Department of Education does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. Furthermore, the inclusion of links is not intended to reflect their importance, nor is it intended to endorse any views expressed, or products or services offered, on these sites, or the organizations sponsoring the sites. |
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