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Office of Curriculum & Instruction
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May 2026
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New MDE Resources
New Mentoring & Induction Standards
The Michigan Department of Education has approved new Mentoring and Induction Standards to strengthen support for new teachers, administrators, and school counselors, with the goal of improving retention and professional practice statewide.
Artificial Intelligence Guidance
The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is providing guidance to local school districts about how to best use artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms as the technology becomes more prevalent.
Classroom Resources & Student Opportunities
Air Sensor Loan Program
Grades K-12th
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has portable particulate matter air sensors available for a month-long loan to Michigan schools. Training materials for sensor operation and care, data collection, and safety will be provided with each loan. EPA staff will be available to provide technical assistance.
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Michigan Climate Education Hub
Grades K-12th
The Michigan Climate Education Hub houses a curated set of teacher-reviewed and scientist-approved interdisciplinary resources designed to empower Michigan educators to integrate climate education across all grades and subjects.
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Go For Launch!
Grades 8th-12th
STEAM students in grades 8-12 can attend a high-impact aerospace Go For Launch! learning opportunity that allows students to work alongside experts including astronaut Greg H. Johnson and former NASA instructor and Higher Orbits founder Michelle Lucas at Lake Superior State University June 16-17, 2026. Registration is $50 and full-day attendance is required each day. Visit higherorbits.org to support the event or learn more.
Middle School Integrated Units Now Available
Grades 6th-8th | OER
OpenSciEd’s middle school program now includes five computer science–integrated units that deepen science learning by providing students with additional tools to investigate the phenomena. These units are designed to seamlessly replace the original OpenSciEd units. They maintain full alignment with science standards while integrating computer science in meaningful ways, incorporating approximately 85% of CSTA standards to enhance, not disrupt, your instruction.
MI Green School Guide
Grades K-12th
EGLE has announced the launch of its first school sustainability planning toolkit -- the MI Green School Guide. The guide includes a team building tool, a school environmental assessment, a project catalog, a funding resource hub, and an action plan template. In addition, it contains school-eligible funding opportunities, green project guides, and more.
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.
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Professional Resources & Opportunities
MABT Annual Conference
June 15, 2026 | Grand Rapids, MI | $35 Registration
Join other biology and environmental education experts at the Michigan Association of Biology Teachers' 8th annual conference held at Forest Hills Central High School. The theme this year is The Grand Evolution: From Riverbeds to Benchwork. Registration will include lunch and SCECH’s at no additional cost. The deadline to register is June 5th.
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The Grading Tree
A Guide for Exploring 3-Dimensional Science Grading Practices
The Grading Tree is a resource from the Advancing Coherent and Equitable Systems of Science Education (ACESSE) project that offers a structured pathway for teachers and leaders to examine effective and equitable three-dimensional science grading practices. The guide consists of a series of modules that can be completed alone, as a department, or as part of a PLC. Modules support learning and reflection about grading structures, policies, classroom assessment practices, and ensuring grades accurately reflect learning.
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MSELA Fall Leadership Day
September 29, 2026 | Detroit Zoo | $60
Join the Michigan Science Education Leadership Association to grow your impact as a science leader with featured speaker Steve Seward. Together, we’ll
explore strategies for navigating the unique challenges of science education, building leadership
capacity, complex team dynamics, and advocating for
high-quality science learning in any environment. See flyer for additional information. Space is limited, register today.
Save the dates for MiSciPLN 2026-2027: September 9, December 1, February 2, April 21
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Implementing Chemical Safety & Storage Solutions
June 1, 2026 | Genesee ISD | Free
Implementing Chemical Safety & Storage Solutions will discuss everything from PPE, chemical storage, best practices, testing of chemical shower and eyewash stations, and district requirements. For this last reason, it is recommended that, if possible, you attend with an administrator.
ChemAcademy
August 11 & 12, 2026 | Goodrich, MI | Free
ChemAcademy: Building Your Chemistry Toolkit is a hands-on workshop geared towards those in their first five years of teaching Chemistry. Space is limited, reserve your spot today!
MAEOE Conference & Scholarships
October 2-4, 2026 | Flint, MI
MAEOE is currently accepting scholarship applications, award nominations, and sponsorships for our 2026 Annual Conference. In addition, scholarship there are scholarships for the Environmental Educator Certification-College Associate Program. Deadline for scholarships is June 30, 2026.
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Sensemaking with Multilingual Learners in Science
WIDA Article
Science class is the perfect place for multilingual learners to explore and make sense of the world through hands-on, language-rich experiences. In the article Sensemaking with Multilingual Learners in Science, WIDA Professional Learning Curriculum Specialist Lauren Bartholomae outlines key practices that can foster sensemaking — actively trying to figure out how the world works — for multilingual learners in science classrooms.
Battelle Teacher Academy
June 15-17, 2026 & Hybrid Ongoing PL | Warren, MI | Free
Bring STEM workforce skills and competencies to your students with the Teacher Academy. This yearlong cohort builds teacher confidence and abilities utilizing problem-based learning to teach manufacturing concepts that connect core content to America’s Maritime Industrial Base.
Explore Student Emotions in Science Learning
New STEM Teaching Tools
Students may feel a range of emotions as they work to make sense of meaningful and relevant phenomena and problems, but those emotions have traditionally been viewed as obstacles to learning rather than resources. Two new STEM Teaching Tools, #107 and #108, offer insights about how both students’ feelings and thoughts play important roles in how students make sense of the world around them, and what teachers can do to support all students.
Summer Sustainability Workshop
August 10-12, 2026 | Kalamazoo, MI | Free
Join MiSTEM and guest facilitators from the University of Washington (the team that brings you STEM Teaching Tools) as we dive into what interdisciplinary, place-based sustainability learning looks like in K-12 STEM classroom. We are finalizing contracts and details, so registration is not open yet. If you are
interested, please fill out this form, and you will be contacted when registration is open. Feel free to share this flyer.
Modeling Workshops in Physics & Chemistry
June 1-19, 2026 | Tempe, AZ | Cost Varies
Arizona State University - ASU has three research-informed Modeling Workshops in physics and chemistry for high school teachers. Courses can lead to an interdisciplinary Master of Natural Science (MNS) degree in physics. Non-credit registration is free, does not include travel costs.
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.
The Next Gen of Scientists Can’t Save The World If We Don’t Train Them
Forbes Article
A recent Forbes article highlights an urgent truth: the next generation of scientists can’t solve the world’s biggest challenges if we don’t prepare them with the right skills today. As classrooms evolve, integrating science with computational thinking, problem-solving, and real-world applications is more important than ever.
Reinventing Professional Development
EdWeek Article | 1 Minute Read
A big challenge in the field is having enough time for and access to effective professional learning for science teachers. Approaches to teacher professional learning become more effective when teachers collaborate and have ownership over their learning, and when the learning is closely tied to teachers' instructional materials. This EdWeek article and guidance highlights three practical strategies principals are using to increase teacher agency in professional learning.
HQIM Change Management Framework
Blog Post & Downloadable PDF
Implementing new science curriculum requires intentional planning and support for educators at all levels. Rivet Education recently developed an HQIM Change Management Framework, guiding leaders to consider how they are best supporting teachers through change. A recent blog post describes the change management components alongside examples.
Middle & High School Research Teachers Conference
October 2-4, 2026 | Washington, DC | Free - Lottery
Society for Science is pleased to announce the lotteries for the Middle School and High School Research Teachers Conferences are officially open. One hundred middle school teachers and one hundred high school teachers will be selected via lottery to attend the concurrent conferences. Travel, lodging, and meals will be covered for all attendees. Lottery Entry Deadline: June 19, 2026
Job Opportunities
Michigan Math & Science Leadership Network
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 Taskforce Newsletter
April 2026 Newsletter | May 2026 Newsletter
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.
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.
ICYMI: State Department Newsletters
Resources Supporting K-12 Science & Engineering Education
KidWind Project
November 13, 2026 | Western MI University | Free Registration
In this free workshop, review energy and electricity basics, design and test blades in a wind tunnel, explore related energy education resources and curricula. Learn about the Michigan KidWind Challenge and gain tips for coaching student teams through the process of designing and constructing small-scale turbines. Workshops are open to grade 3-12 educators and non-formal educators.
Michigan Teacher of the Year Nominations
Nomination Deadline is September 23, 2026
The purpose of the Michigan Teacher of the Year program is to honor and recognize teachers from across Michigan. To be eligible, a nominee must have a valid Michigan teaching certificate, at least 5 years of certificated teaching experience in Michigan, and be in good standing with their district. Nominations are open to the public, and anyone can submit a nomination. Educators are not permitted to nominate themselves.
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Grants & Funding Opportunities
Community for Advancing Discovery Research in Education
Various Opportunities, Updated by Deadline
CADRE’s Upcoming STEM Education Opportunities page aggregates current funding, publication, conference, and career opportunities relevant to STEM education researchers and practitioners, updated regularly by deadline.
MSTA Mini-Grant
Application Deadline July 15, 2026
Applications are currently open for the 2026 Michigan Science Teacher Association Mini-Grants. MSTA is awarding four grants of $1,000 each to support innovative science education projects created by current MSTA members.
Glenn W. Baily Foundation
Rolling Application Window Throughout the Year
The mission of the Glenn W. Bailey Foundation is to foster pathways to success in globally competitive STEM careers for students in the United States and offers four programs:
- STEM Sprouts: K-5th grade STEM
- STEM Stars: Advanced STEM for 6th-12th grade
- STEM Scholars: STEM programs for and benefiting college and post-secondary students
- Teen-Tech: Grants to fund tech competitions
Toshiba America Foundation Grants
Varies Throughout the Year by Grant Type
Toshiba America Foundation is passionate about fueling the innovative ideas of educators in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects. These grants are designed to support the creative projects and material needs of teachers, enabling them to bring a dynamic and creative approach to STEM education in their classrooms.
- Elementary School Application (Grades K-5) opens annually on October 1st
- Middle and High School Applications (Grades 6-12) multiple deadlines depending on if grant is up to or exceeding $5000.
NOAA Ocean Guardian School Grant
Application Deadline July 1, 2026
An Ocean Guardian School makes a commitment to the protection and conservation of its local watersheds, the world's ocean, and special ocean areas, like national marine sanctuaries. The school makes this commitment by proposing and then implementing a school- or community-based conservation project.
CAESART Research Study
Stipends, Materials, and PL Provided
As part of ongoing recruitment, Center to Advance Elementary Science through Assessment, Research (CAESART)Center to Advance Elementary Science through Assessment, Research (CAESART) is looking for schools and districts that meet one of the following criteria:
- Currently implementing ANY science curriculum in Grade K and 1 classrooms OR
- Willing to adopt Amplify Science, a literacy-integrated science curriculum, in K and Grade 1 classrooms.
Participating districts will receive funding as well as free access to the Amplify Science K-1 curriculum and accompanying professional learning.
From Students to Stewards
Application Deadline December 2026, or Until Funds Run Out
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. Current grant opportunity:
- Transportation to freshwater-focused field experiences for 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
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Fall Leadership Day: September 29, 2026 | Detroit Zoo
- MiSciPLN 2026-2027: September 9, December 1, February 2, April 21
National Science Education Leadership Association
Michigan Science Teacher Association
Metropolitan Detroit Science Teachers Association
National Science Teacher Association
MSU Science Festival
Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education
EGLE Earth Day Events
Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom
National Agriculture in the Classroom
Michigan Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers
American Association of Physics Teachers
American Association of Chemistry Teachers
- Biennial Conference on Chemical Education (ChemEd 2027): July 11-15, 2027 | Ypsilanti, MI
Michigan Association of Biology Teachers
National Association of Biology Teachers
Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association
- Porcupine Mountains Field Trip: July 28-30, 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
Climate Change Education Solutions Network
Michigan Space Grant Consortium
Michigan Association of Bilingual Education
Michigan Construction Career Days
Michigan Alternative Education Organization
Building a Better Assessment Future Conference
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Quick Links
Michigan Department of Education
Leanne Weber, K-12 Science Education Consultant, WeberL4@michigan.gov
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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