MnSTA Newsletter Fall 2015

MnSTA

Newsletter Volume 52 No. 1 A Quarterly Publication of the Minnesota Science Teachers Association Inc.

Fall 2015

Speakers Named for 2016 MnCOSE

We couldn’t be more pleased to have Dr. Vic Sampson, author of Argument-Driven Inquiry in Biology: Lab Investigations, Grades 9-12, will be presenting at the MnSTA Conference on Science Education.

Dr. Sampson is an Associate Professor of Science Education and the Director of the Center for STEM Education at the University of Texas in Austin. Dr. Sampson specializes in argumentation, assessment, and teacher professional development in science education. Argument Driven Inquiry is an innovative instructional model that is based on current research about how people learn science and is designed to foster the development of science proficiency. During the MnCOSE workshop, teachers will have an opportunity to experience an example of an ADI lab investigation and examine samples of student work.

Read his Argument-Driven Inquiry Lab Investigation on page 15.

Dr. Chrintine Ann Royce

Dr. Vic. Sampson

We are excited to inform you that Dr. Christine Ann Royce, co-author of Teaching Science Through Tradebooks, will be presenting on Saturday, February 27, 2016, at the MnSTA Conference on Science Education. Dr. Royce is a Education Professor at Shippensburg University, Pennsylvania, who focuses on science education. Teaching Science Through Tradebooks looks at hands-on approaches to the elementary and middle school science classrooms Read her published article Will It Sink or Will It Float on pages 16-21

President’s Address by Lee Schmitt

Department of Conservation by Ed Hessler

Welcome to a new school year and to Year #51. Let me explain. MnSTA celebrated 50 years of service to science education last school year. It was a special opportunity to acknowledge the hundreds of science leaders who served on the MnSTA board of directors since 1964 and their many accomplishments in support of exceptional science education for all Minnesota students. It was also a celebration of you, as a teacher of science, acknowledged in a state proclamation from Gov. Mark Dayton declaring February 2015 as Minnesota Science Teachers Month.

But MnSTA will not and cannot live in the past.

50 years have passed, and now, building on the efforts of those who came before us, we move forward.

What will the future hold for this organization and for your role in science teaching and learning?

At our summer retreat, your board members analyzed MnSTA’s current professional services, web and social media presence and membership models.

Actions are underway to make MnSTA more visible, valuable and vital to you and your work. We’ll keep you posted as initiatives are implemented. As you continue your important work in the classroom, your representatives on the board of directors will continue their efforts to make MnSTA more influential and essential to your professional life.

What is the value of MnSTA membership?

1.

MnSTA connects you with others who are passionate about science education.

Presidents message....continued on page 3

James Madison on Cultivating the Earth

On May 12, 1818, the fourth president of the United States, James Madison, a farmer by profession, made a remarkable address* on conservation to the Agricultural Society of Albemarle, Virginia, a speech that was widely praised and circulated.

Madison commented on current challenges presented by the growing human appropriation of nature and what should be done to correct them.

Madison drew on the work of agricultural pioneers such as Jethro Tull, scientists such as Joseph Priestly, Sir Humphrey Davy and Jan Ingenhouz and the ideas of demographer Thomas Malthus on population growth.

Madison pointed out some of “the most prevalent errors in…husbandry,” noting that the task of identifying them is the least difficult and the task of solving them much harder.

1.

Cultivating land that is either naturally poor or impoverished by cultivation.

2.

Ploughing up and down hilly land which exposes the loosened soil to the effect of rainfall.

3.

The neglect of manuring. “Nothing is more certain than that continual cropping without manure deprives the soil of its fertility.” He also noted the importance of the fertilizing resource, “plaster or gypsum.”

4.

Irrigation in dry seasons.

5.

The use of horses in place of oxen. The latter can be supported by grass and hay; the former requires grain, “and much of it.”

6.

The keeping of too many “neat cattle” (Middle English for cows). “As a farm should not be Department of Conservation...continuted on page 5

The MnSTA Newsletter is published four times each year by the Minnesota Science Teachers Association, Inc. Articles, opinions, book reviews and other information pertinent to Minnesota teachers are welcome. Please limit submission to 1 typed page, e-mail preferred (text file please).

Deadlines for submission of articles are: Fall ............... August 1st Winter ............. November 1st Spring ........... February 1st Summer....................April 1st Send all correspondence regarding the newsletter to: Jerry Wenzel 22002 100th Ave Randall, MN 56475 e-mail: jerrywenzel@brainerd.net The MnSTA Newsletter is an exempt program service provided to the membership. A membership form is found on the back page.

Materials found in the newsletter may be reprinted without charge.

2

MnSTA, Inc. is an IRS 501 (c) (3) Charitable Educational Corpora-tion, incorporated as a tax exempt, non-profit organization with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Donations and dues are tax deductible charitable contributions for itemized deductions on IRS form 1040 Schedule A. The newsletter is an exempt program service provided to the membership. A membership form is found on the last page.

MnSTA Newsletter

In Medias Res by Edward Hessler A Physicist’s Whig History of Science

The (seemingly now ancient) National Science Education Standards (1996!) gave a nod to the Whig interpretation of history in the section on the history and nature of science, grades 9-12 (p. 200. In my view not enough was said about this idea although an example was given—a misconception that students may have about the inferiority of historical scientists with respect to what scientists know today.

The phrase is owed to a slim book published in 1931 by Cambridge don, Herbert Butterfield. He did not do much to shed light on it since the book was without citations. Butterfield defined the Whig interpretation as “the tendency in many historians to write on the side of Protestantism and Whigs, to praise revolutions provided they have been successful, to emphasize certain principles of progress in the past and to produce a story which is the ratification if not the glorification of the present.”

But the book has been influential in historical studies generally and also in the history of science.

Butterfield was concerned with our tendency to simplify the historical record through what he called “abridgements” making judgments about the past in light of what is known today. His interest was in the details as ideas developed…the nature of the contested territory.

Steven Weinberg, who shared the 1979 Nobel prize in physics with Abdus Salam and Sheldon Glashow for showing that electromagnetism and the weak nuclear force are unified, has a new book, To Explain the World: The Discovery of Modern Science. He is unstinting in his enthusiasm for a Whiggish perspective no matter the opposition of (some) historians.

Weinberg’s interests are in the threads of ideas and practice that have led to current scientific understanding and practice. In an interview with Don Falk in Quanta (March 2015), Weinberg argues that the Whig interpretation (progressivism) makes sense because “science, unlike, say, politics or religion, is a cumulative branch of knowledge. … There really has been progress. And to trace that progress, it makes sense to look at the science of the past and try to pick out nodes of thought that either led to progress, or impeded progress.”

While serving as president of the American Historical Association, William Cronon whose research is on understanding the history of human interactions with the natural world, wrote an editorial titled In Medias Res.........continuted on page 5

Fall 2015

Presidents message....continued from page 2

2.

MnSTA provides you with access to quality science professional development both regionally and through our state MnSTA Conference on Science Education.

3.

MnSTA advocates for you through legislative action, and 4.

MnSTA keeps you updated on current trends and research in science education.

That’s quite a value for $25 a year! Encourage your colleagues to join by visiting www.mnsta.org.

We need every science educator to join our cause to provide quality science education for all.

In the area of professional development, your MnSTA regional representatives will be hosting discussion sessions this school year regarding the state science standards. This in preparation for the standards rewrite and adoption in 2017-18. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to designing the new science standards for Minnesota. Your regional representative will keep you posted.

MnSTA is also deep into planning the NSTA Regional Conference on Science Education to be held in Minneapolis, October, 2016. Board members Jean Tushie, Conference Chair; John Olson, Program Coordinator; Polly Saatzer, Elementary Representative; and I as Local Arrangements Coordinator traveled to Alexandria, VA, to begin the planning with other regional and national teams. The NSTA Regional Conference, at the Minneapolis Convention Center, in October 2016, will be an outstanding professional development event.

In this issue of your MnSTA Newsletter, you will have a chance to meet some of your board members, with additional members to be featured in future issues. Please feel free to contact me lschmitt@ hamline.edu, your Regional and Discipline Representative, or any board member with questions and suggestions for MnSTA. And be sure to plan ahead to attend the MnSTA Conference on Science Education (MnCOSE), February 26-27, 2016, in Duluth.

Thank you for your membership and participation in MnSTA. Welcome to Year #51! Have a great school year teaching your students the essential science knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

Mark your calendars:

MnSTA Science Sessions and Booth at the Education Minnesota Conference, October 15, 2015, River Centre, St. Paul.

Science and Math EdCamp, October 16, 2015, Eden Prairie High School MnSTA Conference on Science Education, February 26-27, 2016, Duluth.

NSTA Regional Conference, October 27-29, 2016, Minneapolis

3

Teacher Feature Sue Benjamin is our featured teacher for this issue of the MnSTA newsletter. Sue is currently in her third year as a middle school science teacher in the Little Falls Community Middle School. She previously taught at a public charter school in St. Paul and was the coordinator for an elementary STEM Program for the West St. Paul School District. She attended John Marshall High School in Rochester and received her B.A. in Biology and English from Luther College, her Masters in Environmental Management from Duke University and her teaching licensure from Augsburg College.

This past year Sue has begun teaching computer coding as part of her science classes, something which she plans to expand upon for this school year. She sees a number of benefits for her middle school learners, but believes the greatest benefit is the opportunity for students to build their problem solving skills and stamina.

A great example of this occurred during one of her sixth grade coding classes. Near the beginning of class, a student, who was used to academic success, came up to her and said, “This is so frustrating. I have been working on this problem for 5 minutes, and I can’t figure it out!” Clearly, she did not have a lot of experience with sticking with a problem when a solution was not immediately apparent.

Sue states, “I have observed that writing code is consistently engaging to students at all ability levels, and this is the key to building their persistence.

In addition to being motivated to make the computer do what they want it to do, students receive immediate individual feedback about success (the code works!) or failure (the code doesn’t work!) that is usually not available when solving a math or science problem. The combination of motivation and feedback really supports growth in problem solving abilities.” The student who expressed her frustration to her, eventually went on to solve the problem!

Another benefit to coding class is exposure to a career field that has many opportunities. Most of her students do not know anyone who works in the field of computer science and it has not occurred to them that they might have a future in this area.

She added, “My own experiences writing code as a middle school student gave me the confidence to develop those skills further as a college student and in later employment.”

There are many different languages and platforms for teaching coding to students. A great resource for getting started is the Hour of Code program (https:// hourofcode.com/us/en/resources/how-to) which includes step by step coding challenges for students using familiar characters such as Angry Birds. If more time is available, there is programing platform/ language called Scratch (https://scratch.mit.edu/) which was created by MIT for use by students. There are almost limitless projects that students can create and share on this site.

Sue believes that students learn through relationships and building a caring and safe learning environment is a key part of what she does. She also believes engagement and effort are essential for learning and that her role is to teach strategies and give feedback to support her students’ success. When asked to give a flavor of her teaching style, she says, “I have an active and engaged classroom, where the students are talking as much as I am, and there is an emphasis on learning from each other.” She said she choose teaching as a career because she want to have a positive impact on the world and working with young people seemed like a great way to do that.

Little Falls Community Middle School Principal, Wade Mathers had this to say about Sue, “Sue Benjamin is not only masterful in her pedagogical practice as a science teacher, but a teacher that truly understands the whole child. She challenges the students intellect, designing lessons that are both relevant and engaging. She responds to the students social, emotional, and physical needs as well, creating a safe, welcoming and learning environement.”

Sue has volunteered with many organizations over the years including the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Roseville. Her hobbies include hiking, bicycling and bird watching.

Sue Benjamin oversees her 6h grade students modeling the water cycle.

4

MnSTA Newsletter

Department of Conservation...continuted from page 2

cultivated farther than it can be continued in good heart; the stock of cattle should not be in greater number than the resources of food will keep in good plight.”

7.

The injudicious and excessive destruction of timber and fire wood. “None…so much to be regretted, because none is so difficult to be repaired.

It seems never to have occurred that the fund was not inexhaustible, and that a crop of trees could not be raised as quickly as one of wheat of corn.”

Madison made a back-of-the-envelope calculation: every fire place on a farm requires ten acres for a permanent supply of fuel and for other farming necessities, “several acres more ought to be added.”

Madison noted that using reason and will, man “has effected an increase of particular plants and animals conducive to an increase of his own race; and a diminution of the numbers, if not of the species, of plants and animals displaced by that increase.” He argued that we must live within the “economy of nature,” a part of not apart from nature. His speech very much reminds me of “The Land Ethic” section of Aldo Leopold’s, A Sand County Almanac.

Imagine the conversation Leopold and Madison might have had, one moderated by Rachel Carson! * “Founders Online” (< http://founders.archives. gov/documents/Madison/04-01-02-0243 >)

Be sure to “like” the MnSTA Facebook Page for important updates and science related information across the state.

In Medias Res.........continuted from page 3

“Two Cheers for the Whig Interpretation of History” (Perspectives in History, September 2012). It resonates with Weinberg’s view.

Cronon noted that Butterfield in the The Origins of Modern Science, 1300-1800, traced a line from origins to modernity (that) would seem to partake of at least a little whiggishnesss itself. … And I also say two cheers for the whig interpretation of history.”

One cheer is for the interpretation; the other is for the contradiction whig history criticizes. It is not possible to do history without abridging it. Recognizing this makes us more cautious writers and readers of history.

Hessler is the Executive Secretary of MnSTA

Fall 2015

5

Meet our Discipline Directors Biology

I currently teach in the Springfield Public School district, and I have been teaching High School Biology and associated Life Science electives there for 11 years. I have also taught at a St. Paul charter school, St. Bernard’s High School, and St. Paul Central High School.

Outside of the classroom, I am the High School Knowledge Bowl coach and coordinate other academic teams such as Science Bowl and Envirothon.

I am also the advisor for the Springfield High School YES (Youth Energy Summit) team. My husband and I are are co-coaches for the Springfield Area FIRST Lego League team and started a non-profit to help support similar STEM initiatives for youth in our community.

Personally, I have an interest in sustainable landscaping and have been slowly converting the gardens around my home into all-native plantings. I also have a plot of prairie grass and flowers designated as a Monarch Waystation in my city yard. While I’m out weeding and gardening, or out for a long run, I enjoy listening to various podcasts. If I’m in the house, you can usually find me reading education blogs or old-fashioned paperback books in a variety of genres, my favorites being science fiction and fantasy. My husband Dan and I have two sons, ages 8 and 11.

This is my inaugural year as the Biology Discipline Director of MnSTA, so my first goal is to become more accessible to Minnesota Biology teachers in order to gather ideas and feedback about their needs. One of the ways you can contact me is through Twitter. My handle is @alynnmeyer. I will also be working on improving the Twitter presence of MnSTA as an organization. Finally, I hope to work with the Minnesota Department of Education as they begin exploring the newest revisions to the Minnesota State Science Standards and the potential associated assessments.

Physics

This school year will mark my 26th year in teaching.

Currently I teach physics and chemistry at Minnetonka High School. Over the 22 years I’ve been at Minnetonka I’ve taught physical science, chemistry and physics. In addition I am a Cisco Certified Networking Instructor and have taught computer networking classes for a number of years. Before Minnetonka I taught briefly at Tartan High School, Cretin-Derham Hall, Elgin-Millville HS, White Pine High School in Nevada and at a residential Treatment Facility in Prescott, Wisconsin. I’m a graduate of Bloomington Lincoln High School. I attended the University of Minnesota Twin Cities for my undergraduate and graduate coursework. Except for one year in the state of Nevada I’ve always been a resident of Minnesota.

I love the tremendous outdoor opportunities and variety of seasons Minnesota has to offer. I have two children, son and daughter who both have graduated and are attending college at Minnesota State in Mankato.

For many years I’ve been a member of the Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnesota Rovers (an outdoor club), and Gopher State Physics. Gopher State Physics is an organization devoted the advancement of teaching physics in the state of Minnesota.

I love developing new hands-on activities for teaching science. I’ve shared a few while presenting at the spring MnCOSE conferences, and at IB Round Tables, and at Go4St8 Physics meetings. I’m always looking for new ideas.

My goal for the year as your MnSTA Physics Representative is to get to know more physics teachers around the state. Another goal is to promote MnSTA and gather Ideas for how MnSTA can be of value to science teachers around the state. I look forward to a great school year.

Tom.tomashek@minnetonka.k2.mn.us

Amanda with her Springfield High School YES Team

6 MnSTA Newsletter

Meet our Discipline Directors Earth Science

Kate Rosok teaches Earth Science and Physics at South High School in Minneapolis. She has taught in Burnsville, and at Minneapolis North and Edison High schools. Before teaching she led trail crews and wilderness trips in Minnesota and Colorado, and taught English in Shenyang, China. She lives in Minneapolis with her family, spending much of her time with her 4 year old daughter and 1 year old son.

She loves connecting people with the natural world and the wonders of science. This year her projects at school are having students participate in “sit spot” once a week (see the book Last Child in the Woods for more information), and improving at using Kathie Nunley’s Layered Curriculum approach to curriculum.

Her goals are to support Earth Science teachers in Minnesota to: connect with one another, to consider the upcoming changes Minnesota State standards, and to attend and present at the MNCOSE 2016 and the NSTA Regional Meeting in Fall 2016.

By being a Board member, she hopes to expose science educators to some of the newest and most effective methods on using instructional technology to help student learning including lab simulations.

Her recent classroom experience was at Eastview High School in Minnesota – a school that has been ranked in the top 100 nationally four years in a row. In addition to her teaching position, Carolyn was part of the school’s technology team where she designed and implemented standards and training for students and teachers. Carolyn also has implemented pilot technology platforms for learning management systems, testing and assessments, and has trained teachers in new technologies so they can be more innovative in the classroom.

In addition, Carolyn is a College Board Consultant for Advanced Placement Chemistry and facilitates weeklong summer institutes as well as daylong workshops. She also serves as an online mentor for the New Teacher Center, an online mentoring organization where she helps new teachers learn and use online resources. Carolyn co-facilitates Secondary Chemistry Instructor institutes during the summer, sharing best practices in science education including helping provide support to teachers while they integrate innovative technology tools in the classroom.

Carolyn is currently working in the School of Education at Capella University where she is Program Manager overseeing the development of professional development solutions for districts as well as helping in the course development for a new Masters Degree program in the area of Education Innovation and Technology. She is happy applying her decades of experience helping schools and districts train faculty and staff on designing and implementing digital curriculum and building blended learning environments that increase student engagement and learning.

Chemistry

Carolyn Fruin is a teacher who believes greater academic success can be achieved when students and teachers have the capacity to interact and share ideas both inside and outside the classroom. With 22 years of experience teaching chemistry, physical science and physics, she understands the need for teachers to develop new and innovative ways to reach students.

Fall 2015 7

Department of Education chemistry plus a half credit in physics does not meet this requirement. A CTE course may apply toward the physics or chemistry course requirement if the students “satisfactorily completes” the physics or chemistry standards.

Licensure requirements impact the credit that may be given by the course. For a science course, the teacher must have the relevant science license. A 9th grade physical science course may be taught by a teacher with a 5-8 General Science licensed teacher if the teacher has one of the 9-12 science licenses. If a CTE course is used to meet a science credit requirement, the teacher must have passed the licensure exam for the relevant science content area. A teacher with The Minnesota Science an Agriculture Education license may offer Agriculture courses that apply to the three credit science John Olson is the science Standards are schedspecialist for the Department requirement. of Education. He will keep uled to be revised in The school district board has the responsibility us updated on science educa- 2017-18. Actually the and authority to assure that all students who graduate tion in the MnSTA newsletter. beginning stages of the meet these requirements. They should assure that the process begin in a little more than a year. We want to courses are designed to meet all the standards and that start now to get teachers and science leaders ready to counselors are consulting these requirements when lead the revision. This school year Minnesota Dept. approving course registrations. In particular, students of Education (MDE) science and STEM staff (John, sometimes miss the Nature of Science and EngineerJim, Doug and Dawn) in cooperation with MnSTA will ing, Earth & Space Science and portions of the Physihold several regional meetings to gain input for the cal Science standards. new standards.

In discussing these requirements with your adWe will discuss how the current standards and asministration, it is prudent to cite the relevant Minsessments are being implemented and how well they nesota statutes and rules: Statute 120B.024, Statute support science learning. We will also review the cur120B.023, Statute 120B.02, and Rule 3505.1150. rent research around science standards, instruction and You can access them at https://www.revisor.mn.gov/, assessment. Participants will give suggestions for a although some of the 2015 changes have not yet been vision for the new standards and assessment system. updated. Feel free to contact me for questions or conThe MnSTA regional representatives will be orcerns. I can supply some documents that go into more ganizing these meetings and publicizing them, so get details about course offerings and other concerns. familiar with your representative. They are listed on I hope that you have a great school year. the last page of the newsletter.

John Olson, john.c.olson@state.mn.us, 651-582-8673 Revisiting the Graduation Requirements With the addition of the physics/chemistry requirement and some adjustments by the legislature it is good to review the current requirements. The requirements have three parts: 1.

Standards: Students must “satisfactorily complete” all 9-12 standards in science, including either chemistry or physics.

2.

Credits: 3 credits in science “sufficient to satisfy” the science standards. A credit is defined as one year of study or the equivalent. An Agriculture Science, CTE or Project Lead the Way course may count toward this requirement under certain circumstances.

Male or female monarch? E-mail editor at 3.

Specific Courses: 1 credit in biology plus 1 jerrywenzel@brainerd.net with answer and distinguishing feature. credit in either physics or chemistry. A half credit in Welcome back!

I’m certain you are excited to share the new discoveries on Pluto and your own stories from this summer. There are also some developments in science education in Minnesota.

Getting Ready for New Science Standards

8

MnSTA Newsletter

Opportunities-Department of Education News

Presidential Awards announced

The White House announced the most recent Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Congratulations to the Minnesota awardees!

Peter Bohacek, Physics teacher, Henry Sibley High School, Mendota Heights Leif Carlson, Mathematics teacher, Jefferson Community School, Minneapolis The Presidential Award for Excellence recognizes outstanding teachers for their contributions to the teaching and learning of mathematics and science. Awardees travel to Washington, D.C. for an awards ceremony where they will receive a citation signed by President Obama and a $10,000 award.

We are still awaiting an announcement of the 2014 Presidential Awards.

The 2015 Science Finalists for Minnesota have been determined. Their applications are now being reviewed at the national level: • Lisa Houdek, biology teacher, St. Paul

Central High School • Paul Lulai, physics teacher, St. Anthony

High School • Casey Rutherford, physics teacher, Shako

pee High School Visit the PAEMST https://www.paemst.org site for information about the Presidential awardees or about the annual nomination and application process.

Preparing for the next Minnesota Science Standards Revision

The Minnesota K-12 Academic Standards in Science are scheduled for revision during the 201718 school year. The Minn. Science Teachers Assn.

(MnSTA) is collaborating with the Minn. Dept. of Education to hold meetings in MnSTA regions to learn about new ideas of science instruction and to provide input into our next science standards and statewide assessments. You will also network with teachers in your region. The first two of those meetings have been scheduled and more are being developed by the MnSTA regional directors. There will be more details in the next Science Update.

October 19, Mankato, contact Dana Smith, dana.smith@isd507.k12.mn.us October 22, Thief River Falls, contact Josh Tharaldson, jtharaldson@mcfreeze.org

Fall 2015

Send your used science books to schools in Africa

Books for Africa collects, ships and distributes books to students of all ages in Africa. They are the largest shipper of donated text and library books to the African continent. They collect all types of books appropriate for African students. High school and college textbooks are especially needed. As a general guideline, books should be less than ten years old.

Books can be dropped off at their St. Paul warehouse or shipped to the Atlanta workshop. For details, go to the BFA Donate Books page http://www.booksforafrica.org/books-computers/donate-books.html.

Help to end the book drought in African schools.

Chemical Disposal

The Chemical Safety Day Program is again being offered during the coming spring, summer, and fall months. The program is designed to assist schools and colleges in disposing of unwanted chemicals and hazardous waste from science, art, industrial technology, and maintenance departments. The program comes to the school site for pick-up. The program is operated by the University of Minnesota with help from the Minnesota Department of Education. For Information on the program go to http://www.dehs. umn.edu/hazwaste_csdp.htm.

Teacher Events and Workshops

Northeast Region STEM Network meetings, Sep. 29 Proctor, Sep 30, Chisholm

The leadership team of the Northeast Minnesota region will host its third regional meeting in late September. Area meetings will be held on back-to-back dates to make attendance more accessible. The meeting agenda will focus on developing a digital inventory of STEM programs and resources in the region and broader engagement in and use of the MoeZone, a bimonthly STEM challenge based on Northeast Minnesota geography and published in theHometown Focus in the Iron Range. Some half-day sub stipends are available for the Proctor meeting. For details and registration. For details and registration go to http:// scimathmn.org/mnstemnet/northeast-region/.

Geographic Information Systems Educator Day, Oct. 7, Duluth

The organization of statewide GIS professionals is inviting teachers to an Educators day at their conference at the Duluth Convention Center from 9 am – 4:30 pm. Teachers will learn about this online mapping resource http://www.arcgis.com/features/ that is available free to all schools. This FREE event

9

Opportunities-Department of Education (including lunch and snacks) will include sessions presented by teachers and professionals for both beginning and advanced users as well as specific sessions for science and social studies. The schedule provides opportunities to collaborate with other teachers and GIS professions on projects for the classroom. CEUs will be available for teachers and administrators. To register for this GIS event, please go to the teacher registration page https://mngislis.site-ym.com/?2015_conf_k12_ form. More information will soon be posted on the MDE GIS page underTraining http://education.state. mn.us/MDE/SchSup/SchTech/GISinK-12/index.html.

EdCamp Math and Science MN, Oct. 16, Eden Prairie High School

Center

Teacher and School Awards and Opportunities

Edcamp is a form of unconference designed specifically for teachers and their needs. Unlike traditional conferences which have schedules set by the people running the conference, Edcamp have an agenda that’s created by the participants at the start of the event. Instead of presentation, people are encouraged to have discussion and hands-on sessions. And it is FREE. This event is sponsored by the Minnesota Science Teacher’s Assn. and the Minnesota Council of Teachers of Mathematics to ensure a quality experience. Last year the conference Putting the Innovation in STEM: Creating attracted over 100 participants and the highly favorOpportunities for Making and Collaboration Among High Ability Learners Workshop: Octo- able responses from participants should attract even more this year. For information and to register, go to ber 13, Roseville the Edcamp website https://sites.google.com/a/apps.

Creativity leads to persistence, critical thinking, curiosity, and deeper understanding of core concepts in hopkinsschools.org/edcamp-science-math/. mathematics and science. How do we promote creativ- Submit your presentation proposals and save ity within STEM programs for highly able learners? In the dates: MnSTA and NSTA conferences The MnSTA 2016 Conference on Science Educathis workshop, participants will work with three experts in innovation through creativity. We will discuss strate- tion is Feb. 26-27 in Duluth. Consider sharing your gies that encourage youth to be makers and to see the specialty with your colleagues. In exchange for your world as something they are actively helping to create presentation, you will a significantly reduced regisand learn how to incorporate creativity and assessment tration rate to the conference. Strands for the conferinto daily classroom practices. Target audience for this ence are elementary science, life science, earth & space science, physics and chemistry. The deadline workshop are: Gifted Ed Coordinators & Specialists, Classroom Teachers, STEM/MAGNET School Teach- for proposal is December 22 at this site http://mnsta. org/cgi/page.cgi?_id=205. ers, Administrators, After School and Out-of-School Program Providers. Presenters are Patti Drapeau, An- The National Science Teachers Association 2016 Minneapolis Area Conference will be October 27nMarie Thomas, and Diane Heacox.

29. This is a great opportunity to share your good Learn more about the workshop and register online teaching strategies and programs with a national and at http://www.metroecsu.org/Registration/Events For questions contact Doug Paulson, MDE STEM Special- regional audience. Proposals are being accepted until January 15 at this NSTA site http://www.nsta.org/ ist, 651-582-8471.

Science sessions at MEA, Oct. 15, St. Paul River conferences/sessions.aspx.

“MEA” is officially back! After years of being named the Education Minnesota Conference, we now can attend the Minnesota Educator Academy. MnSTA is sponsoring a strand of science sessions on Thursday, including: • It’s Not Magic, It’s Science: Hands-on Sci ence for Teachers • Integrating K-6 Science Learning through the Outdoors, Notebooks and Word Walls • Uncovering Student Learning in Science • Laughter and Learning For the conference website go to http://www.educationminnesota.org/events/professional-conference/ conference-details

Scientists in the classroom

The National Center for Science Educations is launching NCSEteach an exciting, new program to get early career scientists into the classroom. By connecting young scientists with educators, we hope to both enrich middle and high school students’ climate change and evolution education, and to give early-career scientists a better understanding of the challenges faced when teaching these often socially contentious and misunderstood topics. The Scientist in the Classroom program is a platform for teachers and scientists to collaborate as colleagues, peers

10

MnSTA Newsletter

Opportunities-Department of Education and partners in the scientific enterprise to further science Classroom Resources at getSTEM and the education. For more information go to NCSE Teach STEM Ambassadors http://ncseteach.com.

Fall is here and you want some fresh voices talkBack to school with Forestinfo.org ing to your students about STEM. Consider inviting ForestInfo.org is a one-stop digital resource hub for business professionals to your classroom through environmental education geared towards students of all getSTEM http://www.getstem-mn.com and the ages, from Kindergarten through Adult, teachers and STEM Ambassadors! http://www.getstem-mn.com/ those with a general interest in protecting, managing, Ambassador?Keywords=all&Scroll=true and enhancing the natural environment. It is a source Research shows that the most effective encourfor environmental information which is understandable, agement for students to pursue a STEM career is accurate, and available in a wide variety of formats. The the opportunity to meet and interact with a STEM website is sponsored by Dovetail Partners in Minneapo- professional. One of the most frequent requests lis. made by educators on getSTEM http://www. getstem-mn.com is for classroom speakers or career School Garden Grant Opportunities Go to the Jeffers Foundation jeffersfoundation.org to fair/night volunteers.

New Ambassadors are being added right now 13 different opportunities from local and national organizations that provide grants for school gardens. You will and many professional societies want to promote also see examples from Minnesota schools that have suc- their outreach efforts to you and your school. Check it out and keep coming back to see what new folks cessful school garden programs. have been added!

NSTA governance: Call for Nominations Don’t see what you are looking for? Make an The annual National Science Teacher Association (NSTA) Nominations Panel is looking for teacher lead- ASK http://www.getstem-mn.com/Ask on geters to serve on NSTA’s Board of Directors and Council. STEM to request what you need from over 3,000 users profiled on getSTEM. Also check out the These two groups work together with NSTA staff to promote excellence and innovation in science teaching OFFERs that have been posted by the Minnesota STEM community and take advantage of all the and learning for all. cool things being provided. If you would like more To be eligible for consideration, you must be a current member of NSTA, and meet the requirements of the information, please contact Tim Barrett at tbarrett@ position sought. Information about each position’s duties mhta.org may be found at https://www.nsta.org/about/governance/ Tech Experience Tours The Minnesota High Tech Association (MHTA) nominations.aspx is once again partnering with ESP IT to provide Offices that are open are: a unique event for students interested in learning  President-Elect  Coordination & Supervision Director - must be some- more about informational technology and the high one in a position with responsibility of coordination and/ tech business world.

During the week of December 7-13, we are conor supervision in preK-12 science education,  High School Level Science Division Director - must necting high school students with IT-focused companies and the IT departments of other highbe a high school classroom science teacher, tech businesses in Minnesota. That weis is Na College Level Science Director - must be a college/ university faculty member whose primary role is science tional Computer Science Education Week. Several education institutions and non-profit organizations teaching. will provide high school students with the opportu District Director for NSTA District IX (Minnesota, South Dakota and North Dakota) - must reside or work in nity to have a first-hand encounter with a high-tech work environment. This will include a number of the NSTA District which they represent.

All applications for nomination must be received by tours at companies like Unisys, Securian and Be the Match. To learn more about the program and stories 11:59 PM EST on 10/19/2015, via online submission at https://www.nsta.org/about/governance/nominations. from past tours, click here. If you are interested aspx For more information, contact either: Mary Colson in participating, contact Tim Barrett at tbarrett@ (current District 9 Director, mcolson@moorheadschools. mhta.org. org ), or Amanda Upton the NSTA Nominations Program liaison (703.312.9217 or nominations@nsta.org).

Fall 2015

11

Opportunities-Department of Education Minnesota Farm to School Grant Proposals due November 4, 2015

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) Farm to School Grant Program anticipates awarding up to $500,000 in competitive grants to increase sales of locally grown and raised foods to K-12 institutions and childcare centers in 2015. The grant program supports Minnesota school districts and child care centers in the processing of Minnesota agricultural products. Grants are intended to 1) purchase equipment to allow schools and child care centers to purchase, prepare and serve more Minnesota grown and raised food; and 2) create feasibility plan that identifies specific equipment, tools, training or policies needed by school districts and child care centers.

Proposals must be received no later than 4:00 PM on Wednesday, November 4, 2015. The complete request for proposals and instructions for submittal are located online http://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/ grants/mnfarmtoschool.aspx. For questions, please contact Ashley Bress at 651-201-6648 or Ashley.

Bress@state.mn.us.

Scientists in the classroom The National Center for Science Educations is launching NCSEteach an exciting, new program to get early career scientists into the classroom. By connecting young scientists with educators, we hope to both enrich middle and high school students’ climate change and evolution education, and to give early-career scientists a better understanding of the challenges faced when teaching these often socially contentious and misunderstood topics. The Scientist in the Classroom program is a platform for teachers and scientists to collaborate as colleagues, peers and partners in the scientific enterprise to further science education. For more information go to http://ncseteach.com.

Student Awards, Competitions and Programs

Navigate Your World – a STEM Experience for Girls, Sep. 26, St. Paul On Saturday, September 26, 1,000 people are expected to celebrate the first annual Global Girls in Aviation Day at the Downtown St. Paul Airport. At this free event for girls ages 10 – 17, participants will receive a “Logbook” that takes them through an experience with a broad spec-

trum of STEM careers, education programs and technology displays. Featured guest Dr. Sandy Magnus, who served on the International Space Station and flew the last space shuttle mission, will be joined by other iconic women who have paved the way in their fields along with role models from many Minnesota companies.

Free flights will be part of the mission to help girls see the world differently, learning how STEM affects the way we live, work and play.

Visit www.airspacemn.org to learn more or register directly at this link: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07ebe27piw3f 8c19b1&llr=n9gxd4jab LinkEngineering, a new resource The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) is launching it’s new website LinkEngineering (www. linkengineering.org) on August 16th. It helps PreK-12 educators in the United States implement engineering education in classrooms and out-of-school settings. It provides the first-ever platform for K-12 teachers and informal educators to work and learn as a community to improve instruction and student learning. Several Minnesota educators participated in the development of this interactive resource.

Student energy program for secondary youth

Youth Energy Summit (YES!) is a team-oriented youth program that uses hands-on, experiential learning and energy action projects to address energy opportunities and issues in rural Minnesota communities.

Students are the energy of the YES! program; they are student groups in grades 7 through 12 representing schools or communities, guided by local, adult coaches. They have engaged in local foods, waste reduction, recycling, and energy conservation. Students have built solar panels, conducted energy audits, designed and built compost bins and small wind turbines, and started greenhouses to grow food for their cafeteria.

For additional information about the YES! program, please visit our website http://www.youthenergysummit.org.

The Water Cycle for Kids

This new comprehensive and amusing diagram for elementary and middle schools was produced by the U.S. Geological Survey and United Nations. Site offers pdf and jpg versions of the diagram for higher resolution printing. For more information and the diagram, go to http://water.usgs.gov/edu/watercyclekids.html

12 MnSTA Newsletter

Opportunities-Department of Education Follow a Mississippi expedition

Paddle Forward, is an annual canoe expedition down the river tributaries of the Mississippi Watershed. This year they are paddling along the Minnesota River. The paddlers on this trip consist of 6-8 college students or recent college graduates who learn about the river basin from professionals and community members who work and/or live along the river and the instructors on the trip.

Using the Adventure Learning model, K-12 classrooms can follow the adventure for free online. When the paddlers learn something or observe something on the river they share it with the classrooms following the trip in written and video blogs. The paddlers will visit interested classrooms while they paddle and/ or video chat with them on the water. We also provide free curriculum resources for teachers to use with their students. Teachers can learn more and sign up their classrooms here and become a River Ambassador. For more information please contact Liz Just liz@wildriveracademy.com.

Minn. Science Teachers Association www.mnsta.org Minn. Frameworks for Science and Mathematics Standards http://scimathmn.org/stemtc/ Get – STEM Connections between schools and businesses http://www.getstem-mn.com Mn-STEM STEM programs and resources for families, schools and community http://mn-stem. com/stem/ Sharing Environmental Education Knowledge environmental education resources https://education. state.mn.us/MDE/EdExc/StanCurri/K-12AcademicStandards/Science/index.htm Minnesota Academy of Science: Science Fair, Science Bowl and other competitions http://www. mnmas.org

What is Generation Next?

Generation Next addresses an urgent educational crisis in Minneapolis and St. Paul – a widening achievement gap between white students and stuResources about manufacturing dents of color and lower-income households. Unlike Dream it. Do it. MN is offering a teacher’s guide, hundreds of existing, standalone programs now Introduction to Manufacturing in Minnesota Teacher’s working independently to close the gap, GeneraGuide to Manufacturing, which includes lessons, ac- tion Next brings education and community leaders tivities, and videos which introduce middle and high together to identify and adopt successful programs school students to manufacturing and the many oppor- that are proven to work. tunities manufacturing holds for them; talking points Working together, we will align strategies and and teaching objectives, and applicable educational resources around these five goals, ensuring that evstandards pertinent to the manufacturing industry. It ery student in Minneapolis and St. Paul has an equal is recommended for grades 6-12. opportunity to: To request this teacher’s guide(http://www.dream- • Enter kindergarten ready to succeed; itdoitmn.com/teacher-guide/ ) by November 16 2015 • Meet benchmarks in reading by 3rd grade; and be entered into a drawing of $2000 for your • Meet benchmarks in mathematics by 8th classroom, please email Jaimee Meyer at jmeyer@ grade; bemidjistate.edu. The offer is open to all science and • Graduate from high school ready for col technology teachers in Minnesota. lege and career; and Earn a post secondary degree or certificaOther Minnesota Competitions and Programs • tion Many competitions, out-of-school programs and field trip opportunities are listed in the Reach for the - See more at: http://www.gennextmsp.org/about/ faq/#sthash.4rnjrUla.dpuf Stars Catalog of Programs and Activities.

MDE Contacts:

Dawn Cameron, Science Assessment Specialist, Jim Wood, Science Assessment Specialist, John Olson, Science Content Specialist, Doug Paulson, STEM Integration Specialist, Send submissions for the Science Update to John Olson

The Top Reasons To Be A MnSTA Member Are:

*Connect with people who are passionate about science education *Access to quality science professional development both regionally and through our state MnSTA Other Minnesota Links: *Conference on Science Education Minn. Dept. of Education Science Page https://educa- *Advocating for you through legislative action tion.state.mn.us/MDE/EdExc/StanCurri/K-12AcademicStandards/Science/index.htm

Fall 2015 13

MnCOSE 2016- Save the Date

www.mnsta.org

14

MnSTA Newsletter

MnCOSE 2016

Promoting Science Proficiency by Transforming Lab Activities Argument-Driven Inquiry or ADI is a new approach to laboratory instruction. It was first developed,

by Dr. Victor Sampson, as a way to give students an opportunity to learn science by doing science.

To accomplish this goal, Argument-Driven inquiry is designed to: · Give students an opportunity to use the core ideas and crosscutting concepts of science to develop an explanation or model about a natural phenomenon. · Engage students in meaningful inquiry using methods of their own design and to learn how to do so in a more productive manner. · Encourage students to learn how to generate an argument that articulates and justifies an explanation or model as a result of the inquiry process. · Provide opportunities for students to learn how to propose, support, evaluate, and revise ideas through discussion and in writing. · Create a classroom community that teaches students to value evidence, critical thinking, skepticism, and new ideas or ways of thinking.

Argument-Driven Inquiry was developed using current research about how people learn science and current recommendations for improving laboratory instruction. It has also been field-tested and refined through numerous research projects. Science teachers in middle school, high school, and college level classrooms across the United States are currently using Argument-Driven Inquiry to help students develop science proficiency.

For more information about ADI, visit the website http://www.argumentdriveninquiry.com/ for more information about ADI. Dr. Victor Sampson will be presenting a workshop at MNCOSE on ADI. Come see what it’s all about..

Fall 2015

15

MnCOSE 2016 Activities inspired by children’s literature

Will It Sink or Will It Float?

By Christine Anne Royce

C

hildren may experience sinking and floating in various ways: playing with bathtub toys, throwing rocks in a pond, or watching boats. However, to more fully develop the concept, students need to go beyond observing what sinks and what floats and identify objects’ properties. This issue’s selected trade books and accompanying activities help students investigate the concept of sinking and floating in more depth.

This Issue’s Trade Books What Floats in a Moat?

By Lynee Berry Illustrated by Matthew Cordell Simon & Schuster. 2013.

ISBN: 978-1-4169-9763-4 Grades K–4

Synopsis Archie and Skinny are attempting to deliver barrels of buttermilk to the queen when they encounter a moat that must be crossed in order to make the delivery. Rather than taking the drawbridge, “This is a time for science,” Archie explains, and the two undertake a series of trials to determine if a barrel sinks or floats.

Things That Float and Things That Don’t

By David A. Adler Illustrated by Anna Raff Holiday House. 2013.

ISBN: 978-0-8234-2862-5 Grades 2–5

Synopsis This 2014 Outstanding Science Trade Book addresses the question of which things float and which things don’t.

Through the text and recommendations for activities to try, the reader is introduced to key concepts and the accompanying terminology.

Curricular Connections Children in early childhood or elementary classrooms should be able to “[p]lan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties” (performance expectation 2-PS11; NGSS Lead States 2013, p. 16). This initial ability to make observations will assist the students in making decisions that allow them to “analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose,” which in the case of the first investigation would be to identify what else Archie the goat could use to float across the moat (performance expectation 2-PS1-2; NGSS Lead States 2013, p. 16).

In Things That Float and Things That Don’t additional information related to the topic of density is provided.

While calculating density is not done at the K–5 level within the Next Generation Science Standards, students are asked to continue to “make observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties” (performance expectation 5-PS1-3; NGSS Lead States 2013, p. 43), which is done through participation in the series of activities and discussions. Students in grades 3–5 are also Developing and Using Models (crosscutting concept) as they design and test their boats to determine which will float.

The big idea of floating and sinking is investigated throughout the story narratives and help students to understand that “different properties are suited to different purposes” (disciplinary core idea PS1.A; NGSS Lead States 2013, p. 16). In both investigations, students are also developing an understanding of the crosscutting concept of Cause and Effect as they engage in conducting “simple tests can be designed to gather evidence to support or refute student ideas about causes” (NGSS Lead States 2013, p. 16). ■ Christine Anne Royce (caroyce@aol.com) is a professor at Shippensburg University in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania.

Copyright © 2014, National Science Teachers Association (NSTA). Reprinted with permission from Science and Children, Vol. 51, No. 9, Summer 2014. For more information, go to http://www.nsta.org/elementaryschool

16 MnSTA Newsletter

MnCOSE 2016

Fall 2015

17

MnCOSE 2016

18

MnSTA Newsletter

Opportunities MnCOSE 2016

Fall 2015

19

MnCOSE 2016

20 MnSTA Newsletter

MnCOSE 2016

Fall 2015 21

New FlinnPREP™ Online Student Courses Help Biology and Chemistry Students Review Foundational Concepts Discover FlinnPREP™, Flinn Scientific’s new online courses for AP* Biology and AP Chemistry.

These creative courses can help students review foundational concept so teachers can focus on the higher-level material that’s essential for AP success! When students need to review foundational concepts, FlinnPREP™ can help them avoid the high cost of private tutoring.

FlinnPREP™ can be purchased by schools, teachers, students and parents: Schools and Teachers One license/key code per student per course can be ordered from Flinn Scientific. Key codes will be sent to the ordering teacher. Teachers can view student progress in the course and receive detailed performance diagnostics. A free preview of each course is available to teachers.

Students and Parents Course access may be purchased online by a student or parent with a credit card.

Only $4995 per student/per course for a full year of online access!

Each course includes 10 interactive units of foundational topics. · AP Chemistry FlinnPREP™ Course, Catalog No. EL1000 · AP Biology FlinnPREP™ Course, Catalog No. EL2000 Spread the word about FlinnPREP™ ! Tell AP Chemistry and AP Biology teachers, tell AP students, and share the news with high school guidance counselors.

Sign up for your FREE Teacher Account and preview the course content now!

22 MnSTA Newsletter

Fall 2015

23

MnSTA Board Directory

MnSTA Phone# (651)-523-2945

Below, you will find information about your MnSTA Board Members. The listing includes the board memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school (or organization), mailing address, work phone, FAX number, and e-mail address. The board wishes to make itself as accessible as possible for our members. Please feel free to contact your discipline representative, regional representative, or executive board members if you have ideas, concerns, or wish to help with the mission or operation of MnSTA. We are always looking for members who wish to serve MnSTA as Board Members, Non-Board Service Chairs or Members, and as Committee Chairs or Members.

Executive Board: Exec. Secretary

Ed Hessler

Hamline University, 1536 Hewitt Ave. MS-A1760,

W: 651-523-2945

F: 651-523-3041

e: ehessler01@hamline.edu

St. Paul, MN 55104

President

Lee Schmitt

Hamline University

1536 Hewitt Ave. MS-A1760,

651-523-2562 lschmitt@hamline.edu

President-Elect

Michele Koomen

612-669-2319 mkoomen@gustavus.eud

Treasurer

Joe Reymann

Retired

e: joereymann@comcast.net

DOE Science Specialist

John Olson

Dept.of Education

john.c.olson@state.mn.us 651-582-8673

St. Paul, MN 55104

Gustavus Adolphus College 800 W College Ave.

St. Peter, MN 56082

Discipline Directors: Biology

Amanda Meyer

Springfield High School

507-723-4288

amanda.meyer@springfield.mntm.org

Chemistry

Carolyn Fruin

Capella University

612-240-8794 Carolyn.fruin@gmail.com

Earth Science

Kate Rosok

612-280-245 kate.rosok@mpls.k12.mn.us

Elementary/Greater MN Rachel Strauss 507-288-4816 X 115

12 S. Burns Ave 225 S. 6th St. 9th Floor

Rochester Catholic Schools 318 11th Ave. SE rstrauss@rochestercatholic.k12.mn.us

Polly Saatzer Garlough Environmental Magnet 1740 Charlton St. W:651-552-0094 paulette.saatzer@isd197.org

Higher Ed

Dr. Melanie Reap 507-313-9114

Informal Ed

Kelly Meyer Science Museum of MN 120 W. Kellogg Blvd.

651-265-5975 kmeyer@smm.org

Winona State University mreap@winona.edu

Rochester,, MN 55904 West St. Paul, MN 55118

152 Gildemeister Hall Winona, MN 55987 St. Paul, MN 55102

Minnesota Valley Area Learning Center 1313 E Blackk Oak Av. Montevideo,MN

320-269-7131 mmorgan@montevideoschools.org

Newsletter

Jerry Wenzel

Retired

Physics

Thomas Tomashek

Minnetonka High School

612-401-5700 tom.tomashek@minnetonka.k12.mn.us

Private Schools

Matthew Inman

Shattuck-St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School

507-333-1537

minman@s-sm.org

Eric Koser 507-387-3461 x 322

Mankato West H.S. F: 507-345-1502

Webmaster

Minneapolis, MN 55402

Minneapolis Public Schools

Elementary/Metro

Alternative Ed. & Charter Mary Morgan

Springfield, Mn 56078

e: jerrywenzel@brainerd.net 18301 Hwy 7

Minnetonka, MN 55345

1000 Shumway Ave.

1351 S. Riverfront Dr. e: ekoser@chartermi.net

Fairbault, MN 55021

Mankato, MN 56001 W:

Region Representatives: Region 1&2: North

Josh Tharaldson

Marshall County Central HS

218-874-7225 e:jtharaldson@mccfreeze.org

Region 1&2: North

Michael Urban

218-775-3782 murban@bemidjistate.edu

Bemidji State University

310 W. Minnesota Ave.

1500 Birchmont Dr.

Newfolden, MN 56738

Bemidji, MN 56601

24 MnSTA Newsletter

MnSTA Board Directory Region 3: Northeast

Elizabeth Kersting-Peterson Homecroft Elementary 4784 Howard Gnesen Rd.

W:218-336-8865

elizabeth.kersting-peterson@isd709.org

Region 4: Westcentral TJ Schmitt

Duluth, MN 55803

302 3rd St. SE

Barnsville, MN 56514

701-388-3901 e:tschmitt@barnesville.k12.mn.us

Region 5: Northcentral Nichole Christofferson-Weston Menahga Public Schools 12945 Blue Spruce Ave. Menahga, MN 56464

W 701-219-9399

e:nchristofferson@menahga.k12.mn.us

Region 6: Southcentral Jeremy Brady W:320-752-4851

Lac qui Parle Valley HS jbrady@lqpv.org

2860 291st. Ave. Madison, MN 56356

Region 7: Eastcentral

Karen Bengtson

St. Cloud Area School Dist. 472

1000 44th Ave N. St. Cloud MN 56303

320-253-9333

karen.bengtson@isd742.org

Region 8: Southcentral Jeremy Brady W:320-752-4851

Lac qui Parle Valley HS

Region 9: South

Dana Smith W:507-232-3461X4114

Nicolette Public School 1 Pine St. e: dana.smith@isd507.k12.mn.us

Region 10: Southeast

Denine Voegeli

Plainview-Elgin-Millville Schools

507-867-2521 Ext. 3631

jbrady@lqpv.org

2860 291st Ave. Madison, MN 56356 Nicollet, MN 56047

701 1st St SE

Elgin, MN 55932

dvoegeli@isol2899.k12.mn.us

Region 11: Metro

Betsey Stretch

Minneapolis Public Schools

1250 Broadway

612-240-9120 elizabeth.stretch@mpls.k12.mn.us

Minneapolis, MN 55411

Ancillary Positions: Database

Mark Lex 55416

Benilde-St. Margaret’s 2501 Hwy 100 S W: 952-927-4176 F: 952-920-8889

Historian/Parlimentarian Fred Riehm

Retired ‘91

NSTA Dist. IX Director

Mary Colson

Horizon MS

W: 218-284-7300

mcolson@moorhead.k12.mn.us

Conference Coordinator Jean Tushie

St. Louis Park, MN e: marklex@umn.edu

frriehm@centurylink.net 3601 12th Ave. So.

Eden Prairie High School

Moorhead, MN 56560

17185 Valley View Rd Eden Prairie, N 55346

Events Calendar If you have events you want placed on the calendar, send them to the editor - see page 2 for deadlines, address, etc.

Conferences / Workshops MEA Conference Oct. 15-16 St. Paul MnCOSE Feb.26-27, 2016 Duluth NSTA Regional Conference, October 27-29, 2016, Minneapolis.

Fall 2015

25

9

Minnesota Science Teachers Association, Inc. Hamline University MS MS-A1760 1536 Hewitt Ave. St. Paul, MN 55104

Non-Porfit Org U.S. Postage PAID

Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 4197

MnSTA Regions