MnSTA
Newsletter
Volume 56 No. 1 A Quarterly Publication of the Minnesota Science Teachers Association Inc. Fall 2019
2019 MnCOSE Edition
Raising the Standard of Science Education in Minnesota Our premiere annual professional development event for 2019 will be in St. Could at the Rivers Edge Convention Center. The event is Thursday, Friday and Saturday November 7-9. We welcome you to join the Jeffer’s Foundation for a pre-event called “Team Teaching with Mother Nature” on Thursday at 4:30pm November 7th. This free workshop is open to all preservice teachers, university scieince methods instructors and all current MnSTA members. Starting at 7:00 PM on Thursday we welcome you to The Paramount Theater just down the street from Rivers Edge for a MnCOSE19 welcome reception followed by a free viewing of the documentary The Human Element. Following the viewing we will have a panel discussion on the documentary. Registration for MnCOSE19 begins at 7:30 AM on Friday morning at the Rivers Edge Center. There will be a full day of great sessions for educators. We welcome Peter McLaren, Executive Director of Next Gen Education as our keynote speaker. In addition, each conference strand will include a special strand speaker who will bring expertise in each strand topic. You will have the opportunnity to visit several vendors who will educate you on the latest in scientific innovations. By visiting these vendors, you will have the opportunity to win some amazing door prizes! We’ll end the afternoon Friday with a social event at the Courtyard Marriott followed by opportunities to dine locally at several restaurants with friends old
and new. On Saturday you will have the option to attend a full day of relicensure workshops designed for you. By attending this full day workshop you will receive all the required licensure CEU’s you will need for Minnesota relicensure in one day. The courses will include Positive Interventions, English Language Learners, Early Warning Signs of Mental Illness, Reading Strategies, and Suicide Prevention. Other options on Saturday include Discipline Area Table Talks, Instructional Strategies for the New Science Standards, Sphero & Ozobots (for elementary) and Lasers, Lights & Optics. Information on MNCOSE speakers, sessions, ventors, Thrusday’s Jeffer’s Foundation Workshop, Saturday’s Workshops and hotel accommodations can be found beginning on page 12. Our new science standards are coming soon! To help you understand the changes between the 2009 and 2019 Minnesota science standards, Mary Colson will give a workshop Instructional Strategies for the New Science Standards on Saturday morning at 9:00-12:00. Among the changes is the instructional shift from students learning about science content to students engaging in the practices of science to figure out something puzzling, either regarding the natural or the designed world. To understand the impacts of this and other changes, participants will first assume the role of scientist as they engage in a series of lessons to figure out where some missing water went in a small New England watershed. Participants will then analyze their experience to look for the presence of the science and engineering practices in the watershed lessons. The workshop will conclude with a look at some of the resources that are available to support Minnesota teachers as they tackle the shift to 3-dimensional teaching and learning.
President’s Message-Josh Tharaldson It is a very exciting time for all of us in science education across Minnesota. Our state Commissioner of Education Mary Cathryn Ricker recently approved the recommended draft of the 2019 K-12 Science Education standards with the most current draft of the standards posted to the Minnesota Department of Education website. The recommended draft has now been submitted for the rulemaking process. More information about the rulemaking process can be found on the Minnesota Department of Education website. At the summer MnSTA board retreat, our board of directors participated in a professional development session on equity, inclusion and accessibility in science led by Dr. Hillary Barron from the University of Minnesota. Through continued work with Dr. Barron, we will be better able to meet our organizational mission of “stimulate, coordinate, and improve science teaching and learning for all”. Over the course of the next year, Minnesota Science Teachers Association will continue to work on Goal 3 from our strategic plan: Promote equity, inclusion and accessibility in science education. Finally, our state conference on science education (MnCOSE) is just a few weeks away! The MnCOSE planning team has put together another fantastic conference. Please consider joining me and other MnSTA board members in St. Cloud November 7 - 9th for an opportunity to learn new ideas for your classroom, learn more about implementation of the recommended draft of the 2019 K-12 Science Education standards, network with your colleagues from across the state and so much more! As you read through the rest of this newsletter you will find additional information about our conference. I hope that you feel the excitement as you read about these items and so much more throughout the rest of this edition of our newsletter. I look forward to working with you as we continue to move science education in the right direction in Minnesota!
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Teacher Feature Our featured teacher for this edition of the MnSTA newsletter is Jane Porterfield. Jane teaches biology and honors biology at Eastview High School in Apple Valley where she has taught for the last 22 years. Jane likes getting students outside. While it is not convenient in a suburban setting, they go out and do field work in waders in the storm water pond behind her school. They use iPad’s to take pictures of organisms to compare the biodiversity of grassland and wetland plants and invertebrates. They also use dichotomous keys to identify the trees around the building. Her students then adopt trees in their neighborhood to make observations and relate the molecular processes they learned in biology to something big enough to see! Jane likes to get her students involved. She states, “biology is so much a part of their lives and they don’t even realize it.” She likes using teaching aids like skulls to distinguish carnivores from herbivores when discussing food webs and energy transfer. With the use of 1:1 technology her students can discover so much about questions they have regarding the natural world. They can document what they see under the microscope and in their labs. Jane’s principal, Bruce Miller stated about Jane, “Jane is an outstanding teacher for Eastview High School in our science department. She is beyond wonderful as one of our biology instructors. Her students regularly perform well on our MCA-III exams, but that is not what defines her as an outstanding teacher for our students. She is a very caring and dedicated teacher who is nurturing to all of our students. She has created our LEAP Club at Eastview (Lightning Environmental Awareness Program) and is an exemplar for others in guiding our students to take action relative to projects that help our environment. Jane is often at school long before our students arrive and long after they leave always ready to help a student outside the classroom gain a better understanding of their learning targets. She has worked tirelessly to create an outdoor pond “classroom” that is a large part of our life science curriculum at Eastview. Our students are able to experience learning in an outdoor setting of all types of pond life. Jane has a unique way about her that allows her to show her nurturing teaching style for all students and a pace that is appropriate and comfortable for students. She is an exemplary teammate in our biology learning team (our version of a PLC) always looking for the perfect lesson for our students. She is a leader with our team in helping to develop the
MnSTA Newsletter
Teacher Feature
Meet our New MnSTA Board Members
best way to help our students learn; always looking for the best way to help our student learn. I am proud to say that she is a teacher in the school with which I work, but I am also very glad she was the teacher of one of my children who counts her as one of his favorite science teachers; a student pursuing a Biology degree himself! He is just one example of the many more students that Jane has influenced in her 22 years as an Eastview science teacher. We are very proud to have her helping our students learn every day!”
Region 1 & 2 Representative
Jane’s biology students taking water samples from the storm water pond behind their school
Caitlin Djonne (pronounced Jenny) lives in Bemidji, MN. She teaches 7th and 8th grade science at Century Middle School in Park Rapids, MN. During the summers she teaches science for the Upward Bound Program at Bemidji State University. In her spare time, Caitlin coaches volleyball and loves spending time hiking, on the lake, and with family.
Region 6 & 8 Representative
Holly Knudson: I grew up in Minneapolis and Maple Grove, graduated from Osseo HS in 1983. Went to college at SSU, now SMSU, where I played tennis and double majored in Biology and Instrumental Education. I finished college in 1989, but subbed for 2 years before getting my first job teaching biology and many other things at Balaton High School in 1991. I got that job 2 weeks after I married my husband Guy, who is from Balaton. We were not blessed with people children, but had 2 yellow labs as our kids. We live in the house he grew up in (105 years old!), and are wrapping up remodeling it, with only one side left to tear off and put new siding on. I worked in Balaton for 6 years, then took a job at Yellow Medicine East High School where I worked for 2 years. Then I got a job working at Marshall High School, where I just completed my 20th year teaching. All these years add up to 30 – WOW! I teach Biology, AP Biology and Human Anatomy/ Physiology. I have been on the MnSTA board twice before… as the Regional Rep from 1999-2002 (or around then), then I served as President from 2007-2011. I was the program chair/committee for the MnCOSE conference from 2012-14 or 2015 (can’t recall!) I New Board Members contiuned on page 4
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.
Fall 2019
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.
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Meet our New MnSTA Board Members also have worked with MDE in the Building a Presence for Science in the mid/late 1990’s, and also on a feedback committee from Minnesota during the development of the NGSS. I’m glad to be back, as I so value MnSTA and all the people involved.
Region 7 Representative
Teresa Figallo: After growing up in North Minneapolis and graduating high school, I joined the military and served for 6.5 years in the Army National Guard. I enrolled at St. Cloud State University and began pursuing a teaching career. I taught one year in Minneapolis and then moved back to St. Cloud, where I’ve been teaching for the last 12 years. I’m an 8th grade Earth Science teacher at North Jr. High and have been for the last 3 years. I am married and have two daughters (12 & 16). I enjoy fishing, doing yard work, and playing video games. I hope to serve MnSTA with enthusiasm and help to get things done.
Region 10 Representative
Emily Zinck is the new Region 10 Rep. She will be starting her 17th year of teaching this fall. Her first two years were at Lyle Public schools and the rest have been with Lewiston-Altura High School as their physical science instructor. Her other duties include chair of the staff development committee and knowledge bowl adviser. She spent the last year as a member of the committee that wrote the new science standards. Outside of the classroom, Emily spends time with her two sons, Dawson (14) and Caden (11), hiking, camping and enjoying the outdoors. She looks forward to sharing her passion of science education with other educators.
Region 11 Representative
David McGill: Mr. McGill [David] holds a Master of Arts in Leadership from Augsburg College, Saint Paul, MN, an Elementary Teaching License from the University of St Thomas, and a Bachelor of General Studies degree from the University of Minnesota. After switching from a career in Sports Administration with the U.S. Tennis Association, Mr. McGill began his career in the Saint Paul Public School system, first as a Gifted and Talented Instructor, then as a a Technology and Integration specialist, Computer Teacher, and, since 2010, as an Elementary Science Teacher. He has been employed since 2010 as the Elementary Science Specialist at Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented School. He teaches science to 700+ children in grades 1-6. In addition, he is the Twin Cities Metropolitan District Director for the Minnesota Science Teachers Association. He co-
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authored a curriculum unit He was a 3 year fellow with EngrTEAMS (Engineering to Transform the Education of Analysis, Measurement, and Science). He co-authored a published curriculum unit on 4th grade Engineering Standards. He is an active member of the Geological Society of Minnesota, the Minnesota Science Teachers Association, and the National Science Teachers Association. He was awarded two science fellowships by the Fund for Teachers, one to Greece to study Eratosthenes’ method for measuring the circumference of the Earth, and another to Egypt to study the Antikythera Mechanism. He has been a fellow in the Mississippi River Institute, a Wind Ambassador for KidWind, and a NOAA Climate Steward. David plays the trumpet whenever and wherever he can.
Region 11 Representative
Megan Earnest has been a high school science teacher in the Twin Cities for the last 7 years teaching biology, chemistry and environmental science. She was on faculty at Eastview High School in Apple Valley (Go Lightning!) and has been at the University of Minnesota in her current role as School Programs Manager at the Bell Museum since 2017. Megan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Science in Biological Sciences (minor in Chemistry) and Science Education from Northern Illinois University and a Master’s degree in Instructional Design, Learning and Technology. Megan is licensed in Life Sciences and Chemistry and was proud to serve on the Minnesota Department of Education Science Standards Committee this last cycle. She is passionate about data driven curriculum design, educational equity, and nurturing the relationship between formal and informal institutions of learning in order to serve all students and ignite curiosity and motivation for lifelong learning. She looks forward to serving on the MnSTA Board and supporting teaching and learning across the State of Minnesota. Megan and her partner, Kristi, live in Saint Paul and enjoy taking their dogs, Boone and Takota, to the park for a swim as well as hiking, fly fishing, biking, woodworking, and cooking.
Physics Discipline Director
Phillip Sexton: Teaching is an awesome responsibility! We are tasked with not only delivering content but to understand and address our students needs. I do not take that responsibility lightly. I am constantly learning and putting my new understanding into use in my classroom. I have also had the great pleasure of also teaching abroad where I spent seven years in China. There I learned that language
MnSTA Newsletter
Meet our New MnSTA Board Members and culture are often one and the same. While in China I married an amazing woman and we have two biracial boys who will be attending a k-12 Chinese immersion program.
Chemistry Discipline Director Dana Smith:
Metro Elementary Discipline Director
Lee Filipek: I have lived in Minnesota my entire life. I grew up in St. Paul and went to Macalester College and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Psychology. After working for a few years, I went to the University of St. Thomas to get my teaching license and Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education. After teaching for about 7 years, I went to the University of St. Catherine to get my regular Elementary teaching license and my Middle school science license. I am licensed to teach from birth through eighth grade. I currently teach in School District 196-Eagan, Apple Valley, Rosemount. I am teaching 5th grade at Southview Elementary in Apple Valley. I have been teaching in ISD 196 for 25 years, 22 years at Southview and my first 3 years at Glacier Hills Elementary. I have taught Early Childhood Special Ed, CenterBased Special Ed, first grade and now fifth grade. I enjoy spending time outdoors. I love taking photographs outdoors of animals and nature. My current classroom does not have any windows, so I hang some of my photographs in my room to “pretend” I can see outside. I also like fishing. Growing up we spent time fishing in Minnesota and Canada. I have taken that love of fishing and passed it on to my students. Every spring we take the fifth graders fishing at a local lake. I first take my class and teach them how to fish and then we take the other classes and my students become the teachers. It is always so rewarding to see kids catch their first fish ever. I really enjoy teaching life science. It is my personal favorite and I enjoy sharing the information and experiences with my students. Some favorite activities would be the opportunities to take students outdoors and do science. We have three lakes within walking distance of our school and a wooded area. We have incorporated a water sampling unit where we take the students down to the lakes, sample water, take temperatures, look for macro-organisms and use field microscopes to look for microorganisms.
Fall 2019
UW-Madison Welcoms Karen Oberhauser The UW- Madison Arboretum has a new director. Karen Oberhauser,started her new position on October 1.Karen joins UW from the University of Minnesota, where she has been a professor and conservation biologist. A Wisconsin native, Karen studied natural science education at UW–Madison and biology at Harvard University before receiving a doctorate in Ecology and Behavioral Biology from the University of Minnesota. Karen is perhaps best known for her research on monarch butterflies. She serves as director of the Monarch Larva Monitoring Project, and co-chairs the steering committee of the Monarch Joint Venture, a collaborative effort that promotes the long-term sustainability of healthy monarch populations by focusing on conservation efforts within the United States. She also has a strong interest in fostering sciencebased inquiry in primary education and promoting citizen science and environmental literacy. In addition to Arboretum director, Karen will be a faculty member of the Department of Entomology at UW–Madison.
Karen Oberhauser
DOE science specialist John Olson presents a tribute of thanks and appreciation to Ed Hessler. Hessler rescently retired as Executive Secretary of the MnSTA board of directors, a position he held for many years.
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Department of Education This is an exciting time for science educators in Minnesota. The new ideas about science teaching and learning are invigorating as we learn strategies for teaching the new Minnesota Science Standards. We have started meeting with district leaders about how to lay the groundwork for implementing the new standards and many districts have started profesJohn Olson is the science specialist sional learning activities. for the Department of education. He will keep us updated on science The upcoming MnSTA education. in the MnSTA newsletter. Conference on Science Education will build on that energy and will provide great resources for teaching the new standards. I am eager to see many of you there. I hope you can attend the excellent workshop on teaching strategies on Saturday led Mary Colson, co-chair of the standards, writer for the Next Generation Science Standards, and a presenter for the National Science Teaching Association. Standards Status The Standards Review committee worked nine months drafting the science standards and benchmarks. These have been approved by the Commissioner of Education and submitted to Minnesota’s Rulemaking process which will make the standards legally binding. The Commissioner recommends that school districts use the current version of the standards for planning and have full implementation by the 2023-24 school year. The year of the MCA switch to the new standards is also “MCA IV in ’24.” The standards and related documents are at http://bit.ly/ MNSciStds Workshops I will lead workshops in late November and early December across the state. You will learn about the pedagogy associated with the new standards, the timeline for implementation, and ways to prepare to teach the standards. These workshops are targeted for K-12 teachers of science and other science educators. They will be 4 or 5 hours, primarily at each of the regional service cooperative locations, and will be free. The current confirmed schedule is: • Nov. 18, 8 AM - noon - Roseville, Minnesota Department of Education • Dec. 3, 9 AM - 3 PM - Redwood Falls FULL, Registration closed
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• Dec. 4, 9 AM - 3 PM - Redwood Falls Community Center • Dec. 9, 9 AM - 3 PM - Fergus Falls, Lakes Country Service Cooperative • Dec. 10, 9 AM - 3 PM - Thief River Falls, Northwest Service Cooperative • Dec. 11, 9 AM - 3 PM - Staples, Sourcewell • Dec. 12, 9 AM - 3 PM - Mountain Iron, Northeast Service Cooperative • Dec. 16, 8 AM - noon - Roseville, Minnesota Department of Education Yet to be scheduled are: • Mankato • Rochester • St. Cloud area • SW metro (a Saturday workshop) • 1 hour webinars introducing the standards The full description and registration form are at bit.ly/ScienceWorkshops2019. I hope to see you at MnCOSE.
MnSTA Newsletter
Department of Education Opportunities News
Teacher Events and Workshops
PLT K-8: Let Nature be your Teacher, Nov. 2, There will be several opportunities to learn about the new science standards, experience the teaching Plymouth strategies that support the new standards, and plan for Your K-8 students will love these fun, practical, implementation. hands-on lessons that use your local trees, forests, and the natural world to teach skills in science, math, • MnSTA Conference on Science Education, language arts, and social studies. Lessons can be done Nov. 7-9 in St. Cloud in your classroom, schoolyard, or school forest in all o Keynote by Peter McLaren from Rhode seasons. Dress for the weather and bring your laptop. Island, an NGSS writer and consultant helping states Instructors are DNR-trained environmental educators: and districts implement new standards. Jen Kullgren is a Hennepin County forester and tree o Breakout sessions about standards and inexpert, and Alexa Swan is a Learning Experiences struction, including two that I will do Specialist for St. Paul Parks and Recreation. Inforo Saturday – 4 hour workshop focusing on mation https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/plt/workshops. instructional practices led by Mary Colson, NGSS html writer and co-chair of the Standards Committee, Race Program Package Teacher Preview, Nov. • Regional Workshops presented by MDE, 2, St. Paul mostly at Service Cooperatives, will present standards Context for — and conversations about –race have and instructional practices for teacher and leader never been so important. Race: Are We So Different? audiences. Dates will be set soon. one of the museum’s most powerful exhibit experi• MnSTA Regional meetings. Board members ences –helps learners of all ages examine the biology, will present evening sessions exploring the new stan- history, and contemporary lived experience of race dards. and racism in the United States. • We are also planning some webinar sessions Join us for a special preview of the RACE Proand may be available for district meetings via WebEx. gram Package offered only for school field trips. This Since the 2019 standards and benchmarks reflect preview includes a visit to the RACE: Are We So Difseveral changes in understanding about science learn- ferent? exhibit, the Science Live show “Race to the ing and made several changes in grade placement of Finish”, and hear from a panel of teachers who have benchmarks, you are encouraged to read the introutilized this program in the past. This is a free event, duction to the standards carefully. Due to the large parking not included. Registration https://www.smm. changes, the committee recommended a five year org/rsvp/race-program-package implementation period. Districts may wish to conMagnet Conference: STEM through the Magsider the following implementation timeline: net Lens, Nov. 2, Apple Valley 2019-20 – Professional development focused on District 196 is inviting schools representatives to Science and Engineering Practices (SEP). Start using their Magnet Conference, Nov. 2, 9am –noon at ValSEPs with existing instruction of 2009 standards. ley Middle School of STEM. Learn best practices in Start planning courses. curriculum and instruction, technology integration, 20-21 – Professional development focused on school leadership and magnet school design. Regisphenomena, storylines and assessment. Start adding tration https://district196.ce.eleyo.com/course/27580/ phenomena and other three dimensional strategies to youth-fall-2019/district-196-magnet-conferenceexisting instruction of 2009 standards. . Development teachers Questions: thuy.jones@district196.org of unit plans. Review instructional materials. 21-22 – Teach the new standards in grades K, 3, 6, Costa Rica Field Methods in Environmental and Science Teaching, January and a ninth grade course Join Teachers and other educators for a field trip 22-23 – Add new standards in grades 1, 4, 7, and to Costa Rica this January! Patty Born Selly, Program another HS course 23-24 – add grades 2, 5, 8 and biology (to line up Director for Hamline University’s Natural Science and Environmental Education program, along with with the grades that are tested on the MCA) Ecology Project International, will be taking students on a 9-day adventure in Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, considered one of Earth’s biodiversity hotspots. For information, reach out to Patty pselly01@hamline. edu
Fall 2019
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Department of Education Opportunities MnSTA Conference on Science Education, Nov 7-9, St. Cloud
Raising the Standard of Science Education in Minnesota is the theme of the Minnesota Science Teachers Association annual conference. Learn how to incorporate the new science standards in your classroom. Check out a variety of presentations from across the nation. Visit the vendors to view new curriculum materials and equipment. This year the venue is the Rivers Edge Conference Center in St. Cloud. Here are some of the highlights: Thursday – Free activities - All day workshop: Climate Change and the new Science Standards led by Climate Generation. - Evening Workshop: Team Teaching with Mother Nature led by Jeffers Foundation - Movie Screening: The Human Element: Spectacular videography of the elements affecting and affected by climate changes, including earth, air, water, fire and humans. Available with resources for free school use. Friday – 60 Sessions - Keynote Address: Peter McLaren, co-writer of the Next Generation Science Standards - Strand speakers and breakout sessions for biology, chemistry, earth science, elementary and physics - Sessions on the new standards and teaching strategies - Social event Saturday – single day rate available - 4 hour workshop on teaching strategies for the new science standards led by Mary Colson, national presenter on science instruction. - Elementary and secondary hands-on workshops - Relicensure sessions “Relicensure in a day” Conference information and registration is at the MnSTA website. mnsta.org
STEM Education Conference: December 3, St. Paul
Transcending Boundaries: Connecting School, Career and community through STEM is the theme of the annual STEM education conference sponsored by SciMathMN and this year co-sponsored by The Works Museum. Join colleagues from Minnesota’s STEM learning ecosystem to consider the role of STEM education in providing inclu-
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sive environments, adequate resources, and careerconnected learning that prepare the next generation for the future. Conference attendees and presenters will include: preK-12, university, informal, community, and afterschool educators and leaders; industry partners, professional organizations, employers and funders; and policy makers and community members. Registration is now open - For more information and to register.go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ transcending-boundaries-connecting-school-careercommunity-through-stem-tickets-61208386933?invi te=&err=29&referrer=&discount=&affiliate=&event password=
Earth Science Teaching Conference, Feb 7, Plymouth
The Minnesota Earth Science Teachers Association proudly announces that registration for the upcoming conference is now open. Mark your calendars for Friday, February 7, 2020. Meteorologist Sven Sundgaard of KARE 11-TV will be the keynote speaker on “Climate Change by the Numbers.” Breakout sessions will include Mary Colson on ways to meet the new science standards, Ken Fiscus on teaching moon phases, George Hudak on Circular Economy Concepts, and Phillip Schoeneberger on Soil Hydrology. Take this opportunity to connect and reconnect with your colleagues from across the state and enjoy spending the day learning with other Earth science enthusiasts. Information and Registration: https:// mnearthscience.weebly.com/
National STEM Scholar Program, May 31 – June 6, Kentucky
All-Expenses-Paid Professional Learning Opportunity for Middle School Science Teachers. Ten middle school science teachers will be chosen for a prestigious opportunity offered by The Center for Gifted Studies & the National Stem Cell Foundation Scholars will engage in hands-on, minds-on science activities; connect with speakers and thought leaders in STEM education; learn with skilled science educators; and develop a creative Challenge Project for classroom implementation. Each Scholar will receive a Chromebook and funding for Challenge Project supplies and materials. Information and Registration: https://www.wku.edu/gifted/nss/
MnSTA Newsletter
Department of Education Opportunities Teacher and School Awards and Opportunities
Presidential Award Science Finalists
The Minnesota science finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) for 2019 are: - Eric Friberg, biology teacher, Henry Sibley High School, Mendota High School - Marta Stoeckel-Rogers, physics teacher, Tartan High School, Oakdale - Cynthia Welch, life and earth science teacher, Cloquet Middle School, Cloquet They were announced at STEM Day at the State Fair and they will be formally recognized at the MnSTA Conference on Science Education in St. Cloud November 8. Their applications will be reviewed at the national level by the National Science Foundation and the awardee will be selected by the White House. Nominations and applications for the 2020 award for K-6 teachers are now open with a May 1 deadline. Support and mentorships are available. Information at https://www.paemst.org
Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship
The AEF Program science.energy.gov provides a unique opportunity for accomplished K-12 educators in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to serve for eleven months in Federal agencies or in U.S. Congressional offices, applying their extensive knowledge and classroom experiences to national education programs and/or education policy efforts. Applications are due by November 15,
Green Ribbon School Award
Forest Lake Area High School is a 2019 recipient of the US Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools Award. They join 34 other schools from across the nation in achieving this prestigious. They received their award in Washington, DC on September 25. John Olson received the State Director’s award. A few highlights of Forest Lake’s accomplishments are: • Energy reductions through the installation of solar panels which saves the district about $70,000 per year. • Student well-being support provided by junior and senior students serving as mentors for ninth and tenth graders. • Volunteer hours surpassed 3000 hours in fall 2018.
Fall 2019
• Comprehensive environmental outdoor education in multiple content areas, including biology, agriculture, earth science, physical education and conservation electives. • A strong environmental club which researched and wrote much of the application for the award. Highlights of their programs are available at https:// www2.ed.gov/programs/green-ribbon-schools/ awards.html. Information about the award program and how to apply is available at https://education. mn.gov/MDE/dse/stds/sci/grn/. Applications are due in January.
No Child Left Inside” grants from the DNR
The Department of Natural Resources is offering a new grant program to help more children cast a fishing line, study animal tracks, hike or bike, or simply learn more about nature. Funding can be used for outdoor recreation equipment, transportation and related natural resource education expenses. Public entities and nonprofit organizations serving youth under age 18 are eligible to apply for this first phase of the grant program, which features a simple application and a quick review. In the first phase, $182,000 is available for programs all around Minnesota. The minimum request is $500 and the maximum is $5,000. Applications can be submitted starting Wednesday, Oct. 23, and awards will be made on a rolling basis. For more information on the grant program and a link to the application, visit the DNR’s recruit, retain and reactivate page https://www.dnr. state.mn.us/r3/index.html.
School Programs and Resources
Samsung Solve for Tomorrow
This nationwide contest is designed to boost interest and proficiency in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), and challenges public school teachers and students in grades 6-12 to show how STEM can be applied to help improve their local community. All that’s required is one STEM project idea, based on a problem teachers would like their students to solve for in their community. Along the way, 300 schools win a share of $3 million in technology and classroom materials. School application deadline is October 23. More Information at https:// www.samsung.com/us/solvefortomorrow/
FREE Girls Who Code Clubs
Girls Who Code https://girlswhocode.com/clubs/ Clubs are FREE after-school programs for 3rd-5th or 6th-12th grade girls to join a sisterhood of supportive peers and role models and use computer science to
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Department of Education Opportunities change the world. Participants not only learn hard coding skills and computational thinking, but they’ll also learn project management skills, collaboration, bravery, resilience, how to positively impact their community, and so much more. When you start a GWC Club, you’ll gain access to free resources, flexible plug and play curriculum, a $300 clubs fund, ongoing support, alumni opportunities for your young learners, and more! There’s no computer science experience needed to get started since GWC is there for you every step of the way. Apply now with the quick 15 min Clubs Application https://hq.girlswhocode. com/login?redirectTo=%2Fgwc%2Fcollection% 2Factivities-for-facilitators%2Factivity%2F201920-clubs-application-form%3F_ga% 3D2.32290750.101482765.1559567169928319705.1540914236 or contact Megan Cindric (megan.cindric@girlswhocode.com) to learn more
Physics Force Demonstration Shows, January 13-17, Minneapolis
Physics is fun! Please join us with your students to experience the fun first hand. The University of Minnesota’s Physics Force will be performing its annual series of educational and immensely entertaining shows in January 2020. This year’s shows are better than ever with live fire, lightning, a crushing barrel, and more! Information and free registration at https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/physics-force-2020-northropshows-tickets-70673443171?aff=ebdshpfprimarybu cket
ArcGIS Mapping Competition for High School and Middle School Students
Esri challenges students to conduct and share projects about something in their home state. Students analyze interpret, and present data via an online Geographic Information System (GIS) map app or story map. Projects are submitted for state level review and prizes, with the potential of greater prizes at the national level. Information at https://storymaps.arcgis.com/ GIS resources are available free to schools through a state license program. For more information about licenses, training, and school support go to the MDE GIS page https://education.mn.gov/MDE/ dse/tech/gis/
The Human Element movie available free to teachers
In an arresting new documentary from the producer of Chasing Ice, environmental photographer James Balog captures the lives of everyday Americans on the front lines of climate change. With rare compas-
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sion and heart, The Human Element inspires us to reevaluate our relationship with the natural world. The film and segments of the film along with lesson plans are available FREE to teachers. For a preview and resource go The Human Element movie website http://thehumanelementmovie.com
Student Programs, Awards and Competitions
Bridge Competition and Transportation Program
The National Bridge and Structure Competition is held annually for students in grades 7-12 from states that participate in TRAC (Transportation and Civil Engineering) & RIDES (Roadways In Developing Elementary Students). Minnesota students qualify as it is a participating state. TRAC & RIDES https://tracrides.transportation. org/?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_ name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term= is an educational outreach program from the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The program offers hands-on activities that introduce K-12 students to the working world of transportation and civil engineering and inspire them to consider careers in those fields. The Mn Department of Transportation wants to support schools and students interested in participating and can help find an advisor. Contact stemoutreach.dot@state.mn.us
World Series of Innovation
The World Series of Innovation invites young people to get involved in solving the biggest challenges facing humanity today and help advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Pick from 9 challenges and submit your ideas. Open to ages 13 – 24. Information at https://innovation.nfte.com/
Science and Engineering Competitions • Minnesota Science Olympiad http:// www.minnesotaso.org • Science and Engineering Fair and Sci ence Bowl http://www.mnmas.org • FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Chal lenge, FIRST Robotics https://hightech kids.org/ • Supermileage Challenge https://www. mteea.net/index.php/competitions/super mileage • Real World Design Challenge http://
MnSTA Newsletter
Department of Education Opportunities www.realworlddesignchallenge.org • Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision www.ex ploravision.org • NSTA Angela Award – girls grades 5 – 8 https://www.nsta.org/about/awards.aspx • MN Scholars of Distinction – high school https://education.mn.gov/MDE/fam/ gifted/sod/ • National Youth Science Camp – two Minnesota Delegates http://www.nysf. com/w/programs/nysc/ Minnesota Programs and Competitions Many competitions, out-of-school programs and field trip opportunities are posted at the MnSTEM website http://mn-stem.com/stem/ and listed in the Reach for the Stars Catalog of Programs and Activities https://synergyexchange. org/synergy/media/reach/2018/reach-2018.pdf. MDE Science Contacts: John Olson, MDE Science Contacts: Science Content Specialist, john.c.olson@state. mn.us Jim Wood, Science Assessment Specialist jim.wood@state.mn.us Judi Iverson, Science Assessment Specialist judi.iverson@state.mn.us Send submissions for the Science Update to John Olson john.c.olson@state.mn.us Other Minnesota Links: Minn. Dept. of Education Science Page http:// education.state.mn.us/MDE/dse/stds/sci/ Minn. Science Teachers Association mnsta.org Frameworks for MN Science and Mathematics Standards http://scimathmn.org/stemtc/ Get – STEM Connections between schools and businesses https://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://www. seek.state.mn.us Minnesota Academy of Science: Science Fair, Science Bowl and other competitions Mn DNR Education website: Curriculum, professional development, posters, etc. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/education/index.html
Fall 2019
Other Opportunities Scholars of Distinction Award Program
The Minnesota Scholars of Distinction program nurtures and recognizes distinguished achievement by highly motivated, self-directed students. Students may now complete the Intent to Apply Form for Scholars of Distinction Awards in Leadership, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, STEM, and Theater Arts. For information about the criteria, timelines and application process for a 2020 award, visit the Scholars of Distinction page https://education.mn.gov/MDE/fam/gifted/sod/index.htm. All applicants are required to complete the Intent to Apply Form by December 16.
Donaldson Award for STEM Students of Color
A partnership between Donaldson Company and the Science Museum of Minnesota recognizes students of African American, Latinx, Native American and Asian heritage for their interests and achievements in STEM. Minnesota educators, STEM professionals may nominate a student they teach or mentor. And students are welcome to nominate themselves. The deadline to submit nominations is Nov. 11. Nomination Details. https:// sciencemuseum.formstack.com/forms/donaldson_ stem_award
MnSTA board member Mary Haberman demonstrates the properties of a polymer to a visitor at the MnSTA vendor booth during the MEA conference on October 17.
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MnCOSE Schedule
Thursday
9:30 - 4:30
Workshop: New Standards and Climate Change, Climate Gen, RECC
4:30 - 8:00
Jeffer’s Workshop: Team Teaching with Mother Nature, Courtyard by Marriott
5:00 - 8:00
Exhibitor Setup, Rivers Edge Convention Center
7:00 - 10:00
Welcome Reception, Screening of Chasing Coral, The Paramount Theater
Friday 7:30
8:00 - 8:45 8:55 9:05 - 9:50 10:00
Registration Opens Continental Breakfast Available, Rivers Edge Convention Center, Hawes C Exhibits Open, Hawes C Presentation Session 1 Prize Drawing, MnSTA Booth #1, Hawes C Presentation Session 2 Prize Drawing, MnSTA Booth #1, Hawes C
10:10 - 10:55
Presentation Session 3
11:15 - 1:00
Sit-Down Lunch MnSTA Science Teaching Awards NSTA Presidential Address Keynote Address: Peter McLaren
1:15 - 2:00 2:10 2:20 - 3:05 3:15
Sack Lunch Visit-a-Vendor, Hawes C
12:00 - 1:00 Unconference, RECC Commons
Presentation Session 4 Prize Drawing, MnSTA Booth #1, Hawes C Presentation Session 5 Visit-a-Vendor Cash Prize Drawing, MnSTA Booth #1, Hawes C
3:30 - 4:10
Presentation Session 6
4:45 - 5:45
Reception and Social Event, Courtyard by Marriott MnSTA Annual Meeting and Regional Activity Cash Prize Drawing
6:00
Network and Connect with Regions and Colleagues • Connect with Twitter #MnCOSE19 Meet at Courtyard by Marriott Lobby
Saturday Breakfast not provided • Saturday-Only Registration Available
8:00 - 9:00 9:00 - 1:00
Discipline Area Table Talks Instructional Strategies for the New Science Standards
8:00 - 10:00 10:00 - 12:00
Sphero & Ozobots, Elementary Focus LASERs, Light, and Optics, Middle and High School Focus, GO4ST8 Physics
8:00 - 1:00
Relicensure-in-a-Day, K-12 Focus, RECC 8:00 AM – Positive Interventions
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9:00 AM - English Language Learners
11:00 PM – Reading Strategies
10:00 AM – Early Warning Signs of Mental Illness
12:00 PM –Suicide Prevention
MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE ‘19 MnCOSE19 Presentation Grid Session I 8:00 - 8:45 AM
Thielman
Elementary Room
First
Elementary American Room
Swisshelm Elementary Room
Room
Alexander
Exhibitor Bell Room Workshops
Fall 2019
Bringing the New MN Science Standards to our Elementary Schools: Our Districts Journey So Far by Richard Yonker
5th Grade Teacher; Engineering Education Assistant Researcher @ University of St. Thomas by Alison Haugh
Elementary Share a thon
What’s Growin’ On? Desktop Greenhouses, Grow Towers, School Gardens and More! By Sue Knott
Shining a Light on Inquiry by Justine Harren
Chemistry Strand Speaker Dr. Jane Wissinger Engaging Students with Modern, Relevant, Green Chemistry Curriculum
Physics Strand Speaker Kevin Haglin Accessible Projects in Mechanics, Electrodynamics, and Computational Physics
Transformers Everywhere by Thomas Tomashek
Sense-Making with Card Sorts by Marta StoeckelRogers
Keynote Breakout by Peter McLaren Reflections on EL Sheltered Biology Class Structuring Student by Eric Friberg Thinking: The Power of Crosscutting Concepts
Life Science/ Whitney Earth Room Science
Earth Room
Session III 10:10 - 10:55 AM
Sunflower in the Sidewalk by Kandy Stevens
Chemistry/ Mitchell Physics Room
Physics Schilplin
Session II 9:05 - 9:50 AM
New MN Science Standards and Climate Change by Megan Van Loh
Earth Science Strand Speaker Kristen Iverson Poppleton
Reading, Writing, Thinking, and Talking Science Storylines and the Science: Literacy Ramp it Up! Science and Driving Question Board: Strategies in a Science Keeping NGSS Curricula Engineering Practices in Classroom Student Focused. Activate the NGSS Activate Learning by Mary Learning by Laura Obert, TCI Kelly by Mary Kelly
Session IV 1:15 - 2:00 PM
Session V 2:20 - 3:05 PM
Session VI 3:25 - 4:10
Preparing for New 6th Grade Weather and Climate Standards Can Be Facilitated by Strategic Use of Internet Resources in Earlier Grades by Amy Lillenfeld
Elementary Strand Speaker Dennis Schatz Three-Dimensional Learning Experiences about the Sun, Earth and Moon
Sit-Down Lunch • Presentations and Keynote • Hawes C - North End or Sack Lunch • Visit-a-Vendor and Unconference • Commons Area
Room
Sounds and Light by Tanner Walters and Angie Schlede
Chemistry Labs/Demos by HS students for Middle School by Lorna Birkholtz
Making Waves: Can You Hear Me Now? by Steve Lindaas and Erick Quintana
Minneapolis Schools Implementing New Science Standards Angela Osuji, Washburn High School
STEP UP - Physics Together by Shane Wood and Jolene Johnson
A 5E Inquiry Lesson for Using Phenomena to the New MN High School Teach Astronomy by Kate Earth Science Standards: Rosok and Melissa 9E.3.1.1.3 by Richard Lahti Corrigan
Using ArcGIS StoryMaps to Help Students Learn About Scale, Water, and Landforms by Jennifer Frisch
Science is a Verb! Craig Gaska and Emily White, Pearson
Biology Strand Speaker Dr. Gillian Roehrig Integrated STEM in Biology Classrooms
Using the On-Line Minnesota Natural Resource Atlas in the Classroom by Cynthia Hagley and Will Bartsch
Outdoor Investigator: Using an OnLine Platform Phenomena and Problem with Students Conducting Based Independent Learning with a Storyline Investigations Craig Gaska by Emily Mike Billington & Beth White, Pearson Girard, The Raptor Center
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MnCOSE ‘19 MnCOSE19 Presentation Grid Session III 10:10 - 10:55 AM
Life Science Room
Inspired by Nature: Engineering from Animals through Biomimicry by Kristi Berg and Liz Gilles
How to Start Your Own Wildlife Ecology Class by Bruce Clark
Mutations Explained! Incorporating Phenomena-Driven Lessons in the Middle School Classroom by Bianca Chang and Matt Moorman
Exhibitor Clarke Workshops Room
The Digital Age: STEM Learning with AR/VR Pat Salstrand & Pia Rodil, zSpace
The Science Experience Teacher and Student Desiree Sujoy, Discovery Education
Women in STEAM: Rising to the Challenges of the Global Water Crisis Judy Onufer, H20 for Life
Energy in the Classroom Doug Kleeberger, MN Energy Center of Excellence
Phenomena-Based and Three Dimensional Learning Peter Brenner, Amplify Science
How to Herd Cats Michael Matti, McGrawHill Education
Weidner
Coborn General Room
Session I 8:00 - 8:45 AM
General Room
2019 Science Standards 2019 Sci Stds: Professional Panel: Development Development Resources copresented by John and Implementation Olson Planning
Helgeson General Room
Middle School and High School Project-Based Curriculum - SREB's Advanced Career by Jason Bruns
Metzroth
Fandel
General Room
Marsh
General Room
Science in Alternative Schools by Garret Bitker
Engineering Design Challenges: Highly Engaging Classroom and Afterschool STEM Learning Experiences by Melissa Huppert
Integrating Crosscutting Concepts for Middle School Science by Bianca Chang and Matt Moorman
Masterying Personalized Learning : Get Up and Grid! by Rae Hughart
Study and Discussion of Student Misconceptions, Sources, and Diagnostic Pretests by Richard Lahti and Whiney Shegrud
Reacting to the Past (RTTP) Style Game to Teach HNOS, in a KT Boundary Context by Richard Lahti and Tanner Aufforth
How Can We Help Young People Develop as Creative Thinkers in Our Ever Changing World: Phenomena, Computational Thinking, and 3D Learning by Megan Earnest MCA Data Interpretation and Resources, Including the Newly Redesigned Benchmark Reports by Kendra Olsen
Session IV 1:15 - 2:00 PM
Session V 2:20 - 3:05 PM
Session VI 3:25 - 4:10
MN Orchids in the Classroom by Randall Gage
Sit-Down Lunch • Presentations and Keynote • Hawes C - North End or Sack Lunch • Visit-a-Vendor and Unconference • Commons Area
Session II 9:05 - 9:50 AM
Room
P51 Glow Labs to What is Our Evidence that Investiage DNA Structure, We Live on a Changing Enzyme Activity and Earth? Synthetic Biology Eeva Burns, Carolina Ally Huang, miniPCR Biological
3-Dimensional Science Learning that Incorporates Strong Literacy Practices (K-5) Mary Kelly, Activate Learning
NAEP Questions Tool: The Great Unknown Resource for Educators by Jennifer Cain
One of a Kind: Science Instruction to Encourage Inclusion by Sruthi Subramanian, Erica Barnes
How to Use Phenomena to Make Gains in Student InquiryMaeve Green, STEMscopes/Accelerate Learning
Why Engineering? Jeremy Pinson, Museum of Science|EiE
Science and Literacy: Making the Connection Maeve Green, STEMscopes/Accelerate Learning
Returning "Problem-Solving" to Science by David Groos
Helping Students Write Better Lab Reports by Kate Melgaard
Getting Griddy With It: Reaching ALL Students with Personalized Learning by Tiffany Ott
Science on the Great Lakes by Mick Hamilton
Seeking Solutions: by Teaching Climate Change as a Doorway into STEM by J. McClelland
Testing 1, 2, 3:A New Data "When Will We Ever Use and Assessment Website This": Integrating Career Exploration into Science for Educators from MDE State Testing by Kendra Curriculum by Casey Rose Olsen
Lodging
Best Western Plus Kelly Inn Call 320-253-0606 -- let them know you are with MnSTA Block open until Thurs, Nov 8 Use reservation code “MnCOSE19”
Grandstay Hotel MnSTA Block is now closed but plenty of rooms available 855-455-7829 14
MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE Speakers Keynote Speaker Peter McLauren
Peter McLaren is the Executive Director of Next Gen Education, LLC and works as a consultant with states and districts in support of the implementation of the state science standards based on the Framework for K-12 Science Education (NRC, 2012). In his previous work, Mr. McLaren served in a number of roles in the area of science education policy including Director of the State and District Support for Science at Achieve Inc and as Science and Technology Specialist at the Rhode Island Department of Education. He also served as President of the Council of State Science Supervisors (CSSS) from July 2010 until April 2013 and is presently Advisor to the Science SCASS group. McLaren was a member of the national writing committee for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). He has also served on a number of committees including the National Academy of Engineering’s Guiding Implementation of K-12 Engineering Education committee, and the National Academy of Science’s Committee for Developing Assessments for the Next Generation Science Standards (NRC, 2014) and was a contributor to the NRC publication Seeing Students Learn Science (NRC, 2017) An award-winning educator, McLaren was a teacher of science for 13 years at both the highschool and middle-school level. In 2001, he was recognized with the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award and in 1995 as the Rhode Island Science Teacher of the Year by the MIT-sponsored Network of Educators of Science and Technology. He holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees in Science Education from the University of Rhode Island.
Fall 2019
Elementary Strand Speaker Dennis Schatz
Three-Dimensional Learning Experiences about the Sun, Earth and Moon It’s not too early to get ready for the solar eclipses in 2023 and 2024 – both visible from the US. See how solar astronomy activities can provide three-dimensional learning experiences by exploring effective ways for students to learn about the daily and annual motions of the Sun, plus lunar phases and solar/lunar eclipses. Dennis Schatz is Senior Advisor at Pacific Science Center in Seattle, Washington, and President of NSTA for 2019-2020. He was Founding Field Editor of the journal, Connected Science Learning, which highlights links between in-school and out-of-school STEM learning. He has served as Principal Investigator for a number of National Science Foundation (NSF) projects and co-directed Washington State LASER (Leadership and Assistance for Science Education Reform), a program to implement a quality K-12 science program in all 295 school districts in Washington State. He has received numerous honors. Most recently, Asteroid 25232 was renamed Asteroid Schatz by the International Astronomical Union IAU) in recognition of his leadership in astronomy and science education. He received NSTA’s 2005 Distinguished Service to Science Education Award, and its 1996 Distinguished Informal Science Educator Award. He is the author of 26 science books for children, including When the Sun Goes Dark, and Uncover A T.rex. He is also co-author/editor of several curriculum resources for teachers, including his most recent book, Solar Science - published by NSTA.
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MnCOSE Speakers Physics Strand Speaker Dr. Kevin Haglin
research activities and he has published 48 articles in peer-reviewed research journals. He has received the College of Science and Engineering “Outstanding Researcher” award in 2000-2001 and very recently received a Minnesota State Board of Trustees “Educator of the Year” award in 2019. Leadership and administration are also part of Kevin’s professional interests. He has served as Chairperson in the Department of Physics and Astronomy for a maximum duration and recently as Interim Chairperson in the Environmental and Technological Studies Department at SCSU. He enjoys contributing to university Strategic Planning Committee work and College of Science and Engineering committee and planning activities as well. Kevin holds a PhD in theoretical (nuclear) physics from the University of Minnesota. Biology Strand Speaker Dr. Gillian Roehrig
Accessible Projects in Mechanics, Electrodynamics, and Computational Physics We discuss recent and ongoing student projects with applications of Newtonian Mechanics, Electrodynamics, and Computational Physics. We go through the process of engaging the students, preparing the students, and supervising beginning researchers. Progress is possible with good communication, realistic goals, and encouraging interactions. Specific applications will be presented which estimate drag force effects on astrophysical systems due to Doppler-shifted radiation pressure. The hope is to provide a spark of inspiration to encourage more student-instructor scientific inquiries and research. Kevin Haglin is a physics educator who brings passion, preparedness, positivity and professional support to the classroom in order to inspire learners on their academic journeys. He has spent 20 years teaching at St. Cloud State University helping science and engineering students, pre-professional students, and community members via outreach activities learn and apply new and fascinating details about physics. He also gets very excited about research projects in theoretical and mathematical physics and encourages student involvement in those activities. Kevin has been awarded $531k from the National Science Foundation as sole principal investigator over the course of his career to support
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Dr. Roehrig is a professor of STEM Education at the University of Minnesota. Her research explores issues of professional development for K-12 science teachers, with a focus on beginning teachers and the implementation of integrated STEM learning environments. She has received over $30 million in federal and state grants and published over 90 peerreviewed journal articles and book chapters. She is a former board member of the National Association of Research in Science Teaching and former president of the Association for Science Teacher Education.
MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE Speakers Earth Science Stand Speaker Kristin Poppleton
Chemistry Strand Speaker Dr. Jane Wissinger
Kristen Iverson Poppleton is the Director of Programs for Climate Generation: A Will Steger Legacy. Climate Generation empowers individuals and communities to engage in solutions to climate change. Kristen develops a vision for and provides strategic coordination, oversight and support for all Climate Generation programs focusing on youth, community, and educator. She served on the recently disbanded Federal Advisory Committee for the Sustained National Climate Assessment and Minnesota’s Science Standards Revision Committee, and she currently serves on the CLEAN (Climate Literacy) Network’s Leadership Board . Kristen has worked at the Science Museum of Minnesota, the International Wolf Center, and taught environmental education in Argentina. Kristen holds a BA in Biology and Hispanic Studies from St. Olaf College, a MEd in Environmental Education from University of Minnesota, Duluth and a MS in Conservation Biology from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.
Engaging Students with Modern, Relevant, Green Chemistry Curriculum Since the publication of the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry in 1998, educators have sought to train the next generation of scientists with a mindset of prevention and sustainability. This presentation will share resources and strategies for incorporating green chemistry into the classroom to inspire students with how science can benefit society. In this context, new experiments developed at the University of Minnesota will be detailed which describe the application of green chemistry to the topic of plastics. These curriculum materials engage students with recognizing the prevalence and importance of plastics in their daily lives, as well as the unintended consequences of causing harm to human health and the environment. Students gain hands-on experience with fun and discovery-driven experiments that model the development of sustainable polymers derived from renewable resources, using safe, nontoxic reagents and designed for degradation. Next Generation Standards are met including engineering principles and connection to society. Jane Wissinger is a Professor of Chemistry and Organic Chemistry Laboratory Director at the University of Minnesota. Her contributions to education were recognized with a U of MN Morse-Alumni Distinguished Teaching Professor award (2014) and an ACS-CEI Award for Incorporation of Sustainability in Chemistry Education (2018).
Elementary Share-a-thon Kelli Elickson (Cedar Park Elementary, Apple Valley) Cinda Current (Riverview Elementary, Farmington) Megan Earnest & Mila Velimirovich (Bell Museum, St Paul) Becky Pollard & Brennan Nyboer (Princeton Intermediate School, Princeton) Shannon Olson (Minnesota State University, Moorhead)
Fall 2019
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Jeffers Workshop
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE ‘19 - Vendors
Fall 2019
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MnCOSE ‘19-Vendors
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE ‘19-Vendors
Fall 2019
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MnCOSE ‘19-Vendors
THEBAKKEN.ORG 612.926.3878
to identify and pursue their dreams through $500 grants
Interactive education experiences designed to inspire engagement with science & innovation right in your school from 30 minutes programs to five-day residencies for ages 2 to 102 ASSEMBLIES
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE ‘19-Vendors
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UP AND ATOM: JOIN US FOR A MOMENT OF MINNESOTA NGSS SCIENCE
How to Herd Cats Friday, November 8, 2019 10:10 AM–10:55 AM Coborn Room, Session 3
• Correlated to the NEW Minnesota State Science Standards
Presenter: Michael Matti
Much like the herding of any animal, we need students to get to the same point having come from different backgrounds and experiences. Students start each lesson, unit or course at different levels of understanding and interests, with the teacher needing to identify where they are and the best way to get to where they need to be.
Visit the HMH® booth or contact your Minnesota Account Executive to explore our solutions.
This session will have participants involved in activities that will help corral the classroom chaos. Attendees will participate in Page Keeley Science Probes that help organize that confusion and lead instruction.
Find Your Account Executive: hmhco.force.com/replocator MK19M 17757
* Next Generation Science Standards and logo are registered trademarks of Achieve. Neither Achieve nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards were involved in the production of this product, and they do not endorse it. HMH Science Dimensions®, The Learning Company™, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt®, and HMH® are trademarks or registered trademarks of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. © Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. All rights reserved. FSM_082019LH
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Fall 2019
INVENT.ORG 800-968-4332 23
MnCOSE ‘19-Vendors
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MnSTA Newsletter
MnCOSE ‘19-Vendors
Fall 2019
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MnSTA Newsletter
Fall 2019
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MnSTA Board Directory Below, you will find information about your MnSTA Board Members. The listing includes the board member’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 Vacant President President-Elect
Josh Tharaldson
Marshall County HS
301 W. Minnesota Ave.
218-847-7225
jtharaldson@mccfreeze.org
Angela Osuji
Washburn High School
Newfolden, Mn 56738
201 W 49th St. Minneapolis, Mn 55419
612-668-3400 Angela.Osuji@gmaiil.com
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
Discipline Directors: Biology Vacant Chemistry
Dana Smith
218-333-3215 dana_smith@isd31.net
Bemidji Middle School
1910 Middle School Ave. NW Bemidji, MN 56601
Earth Science
Haley Kalina
Alexandria Public School
320-762-7900
hkalina@alexschools.org
510 McKay Ave. Alenandria, MN 56308
Elementary/Greater MN Dan Gruhlke 763-272-2835
Eastview Education Center 9375 Fenning Ave. Monticello, MN 55362 763dan.gruhlke@monticello.k12.mn.us
Elementary/Metro
Lee Filipek
Southview Elementary
952-431-8370 Lee.Filipek@District196.org
Higher Ed
Diana Fenton
College of St. Benedict/St. Johns U
320-363-5968
dfenton@csbsju.edu
Informal Ed
David Grack
Alternative Ed.
Garret Bitker
1025 Whitney Dr. Apple Valley, MN 55124 37 College Ave. S. St. Joseph, MN 56374
david.grack@charter.net ZED ALC
630 1st Ave. NW Byron, MN 55920
507-775-2083
gbitker@zumbroed.org
Physics
Phillip Sexton
Minnetonka High School
612-401-5700 phillip.sexton@minnetonkaschools.org
18301 Hwy 7 Minnetonka, MN 55345
Private Schools Vacant
Region Representatives: Region 1&2: North
Katherine Melgaard
Marshall County HS
218-874-7225 ext. 116
kmelgaard@mccfreeze.org
310 W. Minnesota Ave. Newfolden, MN 56738
Region 1&2: North
Caitlin Djonne
Park Rapics Schools
218-237-6312 cdjonne@parkrapids.k12.mn.us
Region 3: Northeast
Jennifer Gagner
218-729-8214 jgagner@proctor..k12.mn.us
501 Helten Ave. Park Rapids, MN 56470
Pike Lake Elementary
5682 Martin Rd Duluth, MN 55811
Region 4: Westcentral Matt Dahmen
YES-Youth Educational Services
matthew.dahmen@yes.k12.mn.us
Region 5: Northcentral Lisa Pingrey
National Joint Powers Alliance
202 12th St. NE Staples, MN 56479
307-624-0627 lisa.pingrey@sourcewell-mn.org
Region 6: Southcentral Holly Knudson
Marshall High School
507-537-6920 X 1059
holly.knudson@marshall.12.mn.us
Region 7: Eastcentral
Teresa Figallo
North Jr. High
28
425 7th St. S. Moorhead, MN 56560
400 Tiger Drive Marshall, MN 56258 1212 29th Ave. N St. Cloud, MN 56303
MnSTA Newsletter
MnSTA Board Directory
320-370-7000 teresa.figallo@isd742.org
Region 8: Southcentral Holly Knudson
Marshall High School
400 Tiger Drive Marshall, MN 56258
507-537-6920 X 1059
holly.knudson@marshall.12.mn.us
Region 9: South
David Borslien
St. Peter High School
507-943-4212 ext 6028
dborslien@stpeterschools.org
Region 10: Southeast
Emily Zinck
Lewiston-Altura
507-523-2191 ezinck@lewalt.k12.mn.us
Region 11: Metro
Megan Earnest
612-624-5852
earne012@umn.edu
Region 11: Metro
David McGill
Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented Magnet 560 Concordia Ave. St. Paul MN 55103
1221 Broadway Ave. St. Peter, MN 56082 100 County Road 25 Lewiston, MN
Bell Museum-Universitiy of Minnesota 2088 Larpenteur Ave. W St. Paul, MN 55113
Ancillary Positions: Database
Mark Lex
marklex@umn.edu
Webmaster
Eric Koser
Mankato West H.S.
1351 S. Riverfront Dr.
W: 507-387-3461 x 322
F: 507-345-1502
e: ekoser@chartermi.net
Newsletter
Jerry Wenzel
Retired
:jerrywenzel@brainerd.net
Mankato, MN 56001
NSTA Dist. IX Director
Scott Johnson
701-323-4900x6666 scott_johnson@bismarckschools.org
Conference Coordinator Mary Haberman
Century High School
1000 East Century Ave. Bismarck, ND 58503
Minnesota Valley Area Learning Center 1313 E Blackk Oak Av. Montevideo,MN
320-269-7131 mhaberman@montevideoschools.org
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 2019 MnSTA Conference on Science Education November 7-9, 2019 This annual event of MnSTA will be held at the St. Cloud River’s Edge Convention Center and the Courtyard Mariott in St. Cloud, MN. Future MnCOSE Conferences: 2020 Nov. 12-14 Duluth 2021 Oct. 28-30 Mankato 2022 St. Cloud NSTA National Conference Boston April 2-5, 2020
Fall 2019
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Region Representatives
MnSTA Membership Application Form
Join the Minnesota Science Teachers Association ( MnSTA), the professional organization whose primary goal is the advancement of science education. M ail this form along with your check to: MnST A Treasurer, 526 Chapel Lane, Eagan, MN 55121
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Rates
Discipline and Grade q Elementary q Biology q Chemistry q Earth Science q Environmental Sci q Life Science q Physical Science q Physics
A joint MnSTA-NSTA membership is available via the NSTA website for $85, a $20 savings off the combined memberships. (http://www.nsta.org/membership/mnsta.aspx)
By becoming a member of the Minnesota Science Teachers Association (MnSTA) or by attending any MnSTA-sponsored event, you are granting permission for the use of your image for MnSTA promotional purposes without compensation. If you have questions regarding this policy, please contact membership@mnsta.org
q Renewing/Past Member
Privacy Information
Who can view your School/Organization Profile? q
q Elementary (K-6) q Middle/Jr. High School (6-9) q High School (9-12) q College/University q Informal Ed
M nSTA Photo Release State me nt
Please indicate whether this application is for
Members
q
Administration only
MnSTA keeps you informed about the events and issues impacting science education in Minnesota through its website and an email Digest of those website postings, and periodic informational emails. Deliver email digests of new MnSTA website postings? q
Weekly
Do you consent to receive email communications from us? q
Zip code
School district # (enter "P" if Private, “A” if Alternative, “C” if Charter)
q Basic Membership ...................... $25 q First Year Teacher ...................... $15 q Retired Teacher .......................... $15 q Pre-service Student ..................... $10 q Life Membership: to age 35 ..... $400 age 36-50 .... $300 over 50 ........ $200
q New Member
State
Phone number
Preferred email address Second email address
School/Organization
Yes
q
Daily q
No
q
Never
Teacher Leadership q Please contact me regarding additional involvement and/or potential leadership opportunities with MnSTA