MnSTA Summer 2019 Newsletter

MnSTA

Newsletter Volume 55 No. 4 A Quarterly Publication of the Minnesota Science Teachers Association Inc.

MnCOSE 2019 Set for Nov. 7-9 at River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud.

Plans are in progress for another successful Minnesota Conference on Science Education. The 2019 conference will be held Nov. 7-9 at the River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud.

Thursday will include two workshops, Team Teaching with Mother Nature sponsored by the Jeffers Foundation and Minnesota Educator Workshops: New Science Standards and Climate Change sponsored by Climate Generation.

Friday will feature over 60 sessions and Share-a-thons to choose from as well as many vendors to visit to learn about new tools to enhance your students’ education. Lunch activities will feature Peter McLaren, the original writer of the Next Generation Science Standards and Minnesota Department of Education Science Specialist John Olson who will present Teacher of the Year Awards.

Friday’s strand speakes include Dr. Jane Wissinger, Chemistry; Kristin Poppleton, Earth Science; Dennis Schatz, Elementary; and, Kevin Haglin, Physics. The Jeffers Foundation will host a social event Friday evening and MnSTA will host their Annual Meeting.

Saturday’s workshops include an all day Relicensure-in-a-Day that will include Positive Interventions, English Language Learners, Early Warning Signs of Mental Illness, Reading Strategies, Suicide Prevention and Cultural Competency. Half day workshops will feature Instructional Strategies for the New Science Standards and GO4ST8 Physics demonstrations.

Summer 2019

MnCOSE19 Call for Presenters

MnSTA’s premiere professional development event, MnCOSE, can only occur because of the talented professionals that choose to present their work at our conferences!

Please consider sharing your specialty with your colleagues. In exchange for your presentation, we’ll provide a significantly reduced registration rate to the conference by sharing a personal discount code for you to use once we approve your presentation in our system.

This year, we are using a system that will allow you to submit your presentation information to us as well as come back and upload your presentation and handouts into our system. We’re excited for our MnCOSE team to be able to review proposals digitally prior to approval.

Initial proposals are due to by submitted by Sept 15. We’ll reopen the system for you to add items to share with participants in OCTOBER (presentation slides, files with links, etc.). Visit https://www.mnsta. org/cgi/page.cgi/MnCOSE19_Presenters_Proposals. html?view=submitter

Educators engaged in building an escape room during MnCOSE 2018. Joe Cossette, Minnetonka High School, was the facilitator.

President’s Message-Josh Tharaldson Greetings MnSTA Members & Happy Summer!

What are your summer plans? There are many items on my list to complete this summer both personally and professionally before returning back to the classroom next fall. If your list looks anything like mine, there is time set aside for rest and relaxation, plans to attend workshops, courses and stay current with readings with the release of the new academic science standards all while preparing for the next school year.

As science educators, the number of summer professional development opportunities seems to be endless with topics in almost every branch of science tailored to fit the needs of all educators. To find out about the numerous opportunities available to you I would encourage you to visit the “professional development” tab on the MnSTA website which is updated as new opportunities become available. Whatever items are on your “to-do” list this summer, I hope that you find the time to complete all of them too!

At our April board meeting, the Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility working group lead by PastPresident Koomen presented their findings from a survey that all MnSTA board members completed in March. Results were analyzed and the following was developed to help guide our work as an organization to ensure that we are aligned and consistent with our organizational mission statement: “To stimulate, coordinate, and improve science teaching and learning for all .”

What does science for all mean to you?

Every student deserves high-quality science instruction, regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender, ability, etc. and Science should be taught in such a way that all students find the study of science relevant to their lives, their background experiences, and culture and they have the attitude that they can accomplish science.

What would it look like in practice?

1. All children have the opportunity to learn science by having appropriate materials and trained teachers to lead science lessons on a daily or regularly scheduled basis in their schools. 2. All students Presidents message .................................continuted on page 4

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Meet our new President-elect Congratulations to Angela Osuji. who was elected President-elect of MnSTA. Angela will take over the reigns of president in July, 2020.

Anglea is a 7-12 licensed Chemistry, Physics and Physical Science teacher at Washburn High School, Minneapolis Public Schools where she has taught since 1994. She graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and St Mary’s University of Minnesota and holds a Ph.D. in Science Education and a K-12 Administration Licensure. In addition to teaching, she is a 20182019 Humphrey Policy Fellows at the Center for the Study of Politics and Governance, Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota. She does summer research with Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) as a Research Experience for Teachers (RET) participant. She is a member of various professional organizations, including Education Minnesota, Minnesota Science Teachers Association (MnSTA), National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), Association for Supervision & Curriculum Development, (ASCD), Phi Delta Kappa, Global Minnesota and the United Nations, USA (UN-USA). Currently, she serves as the Chemistry Discipline Director on the Board of MnSTA. She volunteers with various nonprofits, including Habitat for Humanity, the Youth Mentoring Program for Children of African Descent and the Igbo Women League of Minnesota and enjoys traveling, cooking and spending time with family.

Angela states, “My experiences as a science teacher with global perspectives, a k-12 classroom teacher and instructional specialist from Minneapolis Public Schools, a science and engineering researcher from the University of Minnesota, a facilitator of science and equity professional development, will add value to the leadership of MnSTA. I will bring these experiences as well as those from the current MN State and various national standards committees, assessment advisory boards, and the MnSTA board, to the role of the leadership position that advances President-elect......continued on page 4

MnSTA Newsletter

Teacher Feature Our featured teacher for the summer issue of the MnSTA newsletter is Erika Kahlhamer. Erika teaches biology, human anatomy and physiology, and College in the High School Anatomy and Physiology at Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.

Erika graduated from Brookings High School in Brookings, South Dakota and received her Bachelors and Masters degree in Biology at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks.

Erika’s teaching style is up-beat, ever-changing, and organized. Before each class she is blasting some of her favorite hit songs. This year her “theme” music was the soundtrack of the Greatest Showman. Her students know the routine when they walk in the front door. A warm-up and handouts begin their class. She usually has two or three mini lessons all related to the same learning target ready to go for the block class. All the lessons relate to the learning target. She has one lesson of direct instruction, one of partner/group application, and one of individual application/questioning. During the application parts, she integrates technology. The last part of class is spent wrapping up the lesson with some type of formative assessment which she switches up on a daily basis. She states, “ I love formative assessment, so I try to switch up the types I use for fun!”

Erika loves teaching about diseases and the immune system in biology. She brings the classroom to life to introduce the immune system by making a large face and skin She polks holes in the sheet and sprays out “snot, tears, ear wax, saliva, etc..” to represent the body’s may innate defenses to infection.

She uses the skin to give the analogy about how a cut in the skin is like a breach in the first defense in the body. This breach then has to eventually lead to

activation of the more specfic immune system. This is followed by discussions of B Cells and T Cells and viruses.

Erika’s teaching philosophy is focused on forming relationships. She states, “From the day they set foot in my classroom I work on forming that relationship. I get to know their names, their likes/ dislikes, what makes them laugh. I get to know them. I show them who I am. I am real, passionate, and forgiving. I am very open and honest with them about how I care about them, not just the grades they earn in my class, but I care about them as people. After relationships are established and growing then respect can be built. Once students respect you they are more willing to follow all your crazy instructions in the classroom and might possibly work and and ask questions!”

Erika and her family enjoy the community theatre. They are very involved in their church and they love to help out with any and all ISD 564 activities that they can. She states, “My main hobby is being a mom. I enjoying keeping up with my kids and nieces and nephews events and cheering them on. I also enjoy participating in group exercise classes, like Zumba. Unfortunately my new “hobby” is fighting stage four kidney cancer. I was just diagnosed May 6th, 2019.”

TRF High School Principal, Scott Brekke says about Erika, “She works very hard and has a great passion for her subject areas. The students just love taking her classes. She connects with all students and she really cares about each student as an individual! She will be taking the next year off of school due to being diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer. We just got done doing a fundraiser for her Teacher Feature........continued 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.

Summer 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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Presidents messa..............continuted from page 2

Teacher Feature .........continuted from page 3

find the study of science relevant to their lives, their and her family. It was an unbelievable turnout. That background experiences, and culture and they have the attitude that they can accomplish science. 3. That shows you how many people’s hearts she has touched all students, no matter what their income level, gen- at Lincoln High School and TRF.” der, race, religion, physical abilities, cognitive abilities, or culture should have equal access to quality, unbiased science instruction.

The MnSTA summer board retreat will be held Wednesday July 24th where we will continue to work towards stimulating, coordinating, and improving science teaching and learning for all

President-elect continued from page 2

the mission of the organization. To the role of the MnSTA President, I will bring passion and be a dedicated advocate on behalf of Minnesota science educators and students and MnSTA as an organization.”

Erika teaching her anatomy and physiology class

Meet Our New Region 4 Rep.

Matthew Dahman is MnSTA’s new Region 4 representative. Matt currently teaches science courses at Youth Educational Services in Moorhead and iQ Academy Online School based in Fergus Falls.

Matt’s passion is to help students succeed in their educational goals. Matt received his undergraduate degree from Gustavus Adolphus college and graduate degrees from Minnesota State University Moorhead and Hamline University. He looks forward to helping serve the MnSTA constituency in his region.

Matt spends his summers traveling in the western USA.

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MnSTA Newsletter

Department of Education How do we prepare to implement the new Science Standards?

As of the writing of this article in late May, the science standards committee has completed its work and submitted the recommended standards and benchmarks to the commissioner of education. The next John Olson is the science specialist step is for the comfor the Department of education. missioner to give her He will keep us updated on science approval and submit education. in the MnSTA newsletter.

the standards to Minnesota’s Rulemaking process to make them legally binding. However at this point the commissioner’s approval is being delayed.

To help districts and teachers start planning, the recommendations of the committee are posted at the MDE science webpage (at the bottom of the page).

After the commissioner has approved the standards, the final draft will be published and MDE will develop an implementation plan.

The committee and the commissioner are recommending to rulemaking that the full implementation year be 2023-2024. By that year schools should use the new standards for all grades and courses and that is the year the MCA will be based on the new standards. (MCA IV in ‘24) Based on that schedule, districts may consider this implementation timeline: 2019-20 – professional development focusing on using the science and engineering practices in current instruction.

‘20-21 – curriculum (e.g. unit plans) and assessment development and continued professional development focusing on phenomena-based instruction and developing storylines.

‘21-22 – teach the new standards in K, 3, 6, and a ninth grade class ‘22-23 – add 1, 4, 7, and another HS class ‘23-24 – add 2, 5, 8 and biology (to line up with the grades that are tested on the MCA) Here are a few ideas to keep in mind as you start planning to implement the new standards: • MDE will prepare a document that provides suggestions for implementation activities over the

Summer 2019

span of the five year period.

• As you plan courses and any changes in teacher placement, notice that the previous 9-12 physical science standards have moved to 8th grade and that there has been an increase in high school earth and space science standards. As a result most high schools should consider requiring a year-long earth science course. However this may not be needed until 2023-24.

• MDE will have discussions with the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) about adjustment to license requirements to support the new standards.

• Some professional development organizations are planning to provide professional development to support the new standards and content knowledge that teachers may need.

The MDE Academic Standards division is developing a website called the Standards Portal which will provide resources for districts and schools in implementing standards-based education. The website will include tools for districts in supporting effective instructional practices and designing curriculum. The Portal will be unveiled at a Standards Mini-Conference on August 9 at MDE. There will also be a breakout session on the shifts in the new science standards. The agenda and registration will be at the MDE website.

Previous articles on the science standards development are archived at the Minnesota Science Teachers Association standards page https://www.mnsta. org/MN_Science_Standards.html

Minnesota Department of Education News and Opportunities

The Science Standards Review Committee completed its work and presented a recommendation of science standards and benchmarks to the Commissioner of Education. After approval, the final draft will be published. The standards will become official through the Minnesota Rulemaking process.

The recommendations of the committee may be accessed at the bottom of the MDE Science website. https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/stds/sci/ This draft may be used by school districts and educators for initial planning purposes. There could be changes before the final draft is published. The committee is also recommending that full implementation of the standards be in the 2023-24 school year. MDE will publish recommendations for an implementation timeline 5

Department of Education Opportunities Give your used textbooks a second life, in Africa

Your used textbooks and other books can help stem the drought of books in African schools and libraries. Books for Africa, based in St. Paul, collects, ships and distributed books to students of all ages.

As a general guideline, books should be less that fifteen years old. You may drop off books at their St. Paul warehouse or ship them to the Atlanta warehouse. Learn more at https://www.booksforafrica.org/ donate/donate-books.html

Teacher Events and Workshops

Native Skywatchers Educators Workshop, June 10 - 11, Cloquet

This two-day workshop at the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is designed for all educators & persons interested in increasing their knowledge of Ojibwe and D(L)akota Star Knowledge. A new focus this year will include: Earth and Sky, and interdisciplinary STEM connections. The workshop includes multiple hands-on activities so participants will be able to experience the culture and the science in the most authentic and meaningful way possible. Learn more at https://web.stcloudstate.edu/planetarium/native_skywatchers.html

MN STEM Conference, June 12, St. Paul

Transcending Boundaries: Connecting School, Career and Community through STEM is the theme for the annual STEM conference sponsored by SciMathMN scimathmn.org and this year co-sponsored

by The Works Museum theworks.org. Join colleagues from Minnesota’s STEM learning ecosystem to consider the role of STEM education in providing inclusive 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. More information and registration at https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/transcending-boundariesconnecting-school-career-community-through-stemtickets-61208386933 A pre-conference STEM Social will be held on June 11 from 4:30-7:30pm at REM5VR Lab in St. Louis Park. Join us for networking, interesting conversation, and to experience virtual reality. Appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided and there will be a cash bar. This event is free, though

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registration is required. You do not need to be attending the conference to come to this event. We hope to see you there. Information and Registration. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stem-social-rem5-tickets-61214262507 *SciGirls Strategies Live Stream, June 12, online During this special live stream from 1 – 2 PM, participants will learn about the latest research on best practices for engaging girls, based on a comprehensive literature review and extensive feedback from Twin Cities PBS SciGirls educators and trainers. The PBS SciGirls approach (for the TV show, website, and educational materials) is rooted in research about how to engage girls in STEM. Funded by the National Science Foundation, Twin Cities PBS conducted a literature review to update the strategies with the latest gender equitable and culturally responsive research. A quarter of a century of studies have converged on a set of common strategies that work, and they have become the framework for over 200 SciGirls outreach programs across the U.S. Click here to Join the Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/791093896

Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher Tours, various dates and locations

The Summer Teacher Tours are a fantastic opportu nity to get first-hand experience with agriculture and explore FREE ag-themed, standards-based resources.

We would love to have you join us for one or more tours this summer! Learn more here https://minnesota.agclassroom.org/programs/tour.cfm June 12: Feed, Seeds and STEM Teacher Tour in Carver County: Stops include: dairy farm, seed company, Bongards Creamery June 27-28: Redwood and Renville County Teacher Tour: Stops include: Grandview Valley Winery, Stony Creek Farm, The Shrimp Shop, Hilltop Harvest, Tiffany Farms Inc, Gilfillan Estate July 11-12: STEM in Agriculture Teacher Tour in Martin and Brown Counties: Stops include: Avery Weigh-Tronix, Christensen Farms (Research Farm), Morgan Creek Winery, Eversman Farms (Solar Farm), Patsche Farm (Drone, GPS and other technology) July 30: Farmamerica Hands-on Learning with Hops and Hemp Teacher Tour in the Waseca area: stops include: Farmamerica, Half Pint Brewery, Midwest Hemp Farms greenhouse, hops field, hemp extraction site

MnSTA Newsletter

Department of Education Opportunities Teaching in the Outdoor Classroom Workshop, June 17-20, Fergus Falls

Explore innovative ways to use an outdoor classroom during this preK-12th immersion workshop at the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center. It is held concurrently with the Summer Explorers Biology Camp for youth entering 5th and 6th grades. Observe professionals and apply outdoor classroom methods by leading the same youth daily, outdoors, in a supportive, team-teaching environment. Learn more http://fpwlc.831web.com/teaching-in-the-outdoorclassroom-workshop/

Green and Sustainable Chemistry Workshop, June 18-20, Minneapolis The Center for Sustainable Polymers in partnership with the Minnesota Corn Growers Association are offering a FREE three-day workshop at the University of Minnesota to high school chemistry teachers on green and sustainable chemistry. The workshop was developed through the University of Minnesota Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) program. A stipend, graduate credits and lab materials are available. Applicants from across the state of Minnesota are welcome. Applications are due March 15. Learn more at https://csp. umn.edu/green-chemistry-workshop/

Gifted and Talented Symposium, June 18 – 20, Austin

The annual Hormel Foundation Gifted and Talented Education Symposium provides an opportunity for educators, counselors, administrators and parents to gain greater understanding of the unique needs of gifted and high potential learners. Participants attend in-depth sessions focusing on foundational knowledge, creativity, curriculum strategies, and social/ emotional needs of gifted and high potential learners provided by the field’s finest regionally, nationally and internationally recognized presenters. All are welcome to register and attend the symposium The keynote speaker this year is Stephan Pruitt, who is well-known as the leader of the Next Generation Science Standards development. His inspiring presentation is What 4 Words Changed Your Life? (and the lives of the many students teachers change every day.) Learn more at http://www.gtsymposium. org

Summer 2019

Minnesota Minerals Education Workshop, June 18-20, Grand Rapids

The MMEW is a three-day workshop held annually for K-12 earth science educators that offers short courses and field trips focused on the geology and mineral resources of Minnesota. The workshops have been held in various locations throughout Minnesota since its inception in 1997. The workshop is organized by the Minnesota Center for Mineral Resource Education. Learn more at http:// www.mmew.org

Implementing Integrated STEM in the Classroom, Minneapolis

The NSF funded grant, Design and Development of a K-12 STEM Observation Protocol, includes a professional development program engaging teachers in learning how to implement integrated STEM in their classrooms. In a 5-day summer institute, teachers learn models and strategies for STEM integration through participation in model STEM activities, and are given opportunities to develop their own STEM units. In the 2019/2020 academic year, each participant will teach two integrated STEM units. These lessons will be observed and videotaped. Teachers will have the opportunity to reflect on their STEM teaching through classroom coaching sessions using their classroom video facilitated through a STEM observation protocol tool. The benefits include a stipend and a budget for classroom materials. The summer institutes are • Elementary teachers: June 24 - 28 • Secondary teachers: July 29 – August 2 To register, contact Gillian Roehrig at the University of Minnesota, roehr013@umn.edu

Become a SciGirls Strategies Trainer, June 25 – 28, St. Paul

Twin Cities PBS (TPT) invites schools and school districts across Minnesota and Wisconsin to participate in SciGirls Strategies: Gender Equitable Teaching Practices in CTE Pathways for High School Girls! This program provides high schoollevel Career and Technical Education and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math teachers and district leaders a FREE four-day workshop on employing gender-equitable equitable teaching strategies with the goal of attracting and retaining more female students in CTE/STEM classes.

This course will be held at Twin Cities PBS (TPT) studios in St. Paul and trains participants to provide professional development. Transportation and lodging will be reimbursed along with a stipend

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Department of Education Opportunities and funding for implementation. For more information contact Alex Dexheimer, adexheimer@tpt.org.

Rivers Institutes: St. Croix, June 24- 26; Mississippi, July 22-24

Join us this summer as Hamline University’s Center for Global Environmental Education (CGEE) presents its acclaimed Rivers Institute, a FREE, three-day, field-based professional development opportunity for educators.

The Rivers Institutes are designed to increase teachers’ science content knowledge and investigation skills and help area educators translate their professional experiences into meaningful, engaging classroom investigations. Learn more at https://www. hamline.edu/cgee/riversinstitute/

ties, and network with other science educators. The 2019 ChemEd Conference will be applicable for STEM educators from K-12 and college. Registration is now open. https://www.chemed2019.com/ registration?utm_campaign=Feb19-ChemEd-2019Email-%232&utm_content=Feb19-ChemEd-2019Email-&232

AAAS Workshop for Life Science Instruction, Chicago, July 31

Middle school science and high school biology teachers are invited to submit an application to attend a free one-day workshop presented by Project 2061, https://www.aaas.org/programs/project-2061?et_ rid=35078925&et_cid=2814434 the science education initiative of the American Association for the Voyage of Discovery, Grand Portage and Isle Advancement of Science (AAAS). The workshop is Royale, Various dates in July and August also open to science specialists or administrators with The Voyage of Discovery is a free two day overscience curriculum responsibilities. night camp experience for educators, youth ages 9 The workshop will introduce participants to a – 12 and an adult mentor. Each trip begins and end pair of curriculum units designed to give students a at Grand Portage National Monument and includes coherent understanding of matter and energy in living a day trip aboard the Sea Hunter III to Isle Royal organisms: National Park. Participants will learn camping skills, • Toward High School Biology is designed for cultural and natural history of Lake Superior, Grand use in middle school and focuses on helping students Portage and Isle Royal and about tribal management understand what happens to atoms and molecules of natural resources. The dates are July 13 – 14, Auduring the chemical reactions that result in the gust 3-4 and August 23 -3 – 24. Registration deadline growth and repair of living organisms. is June 17. More information here at https://drive.

• Matter and Energy for Growth and Activity google.com/file/d/0B7Jmza2OHnSKZUQzLV9ybDdt is for high school biology students and expands on bnNXS3hGeTVweU5aSVdmMGJR/view the middle school unit to help students understand the ArcGIS Mapping Training, July 20 and 27, relationship between matter and energy changes. online More information. https://www.mnsta.org/cgi/page.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) helps cgi/article.gtml?aid=1213&zine=show people understand the world and make informed WaterWorks! A Drinking Water Institute, decisions. Teachers Teaching Teacher in GIS (T3G) August 5-7, Oakdale is for educators committed to helping other educator Enrich your water-related curriculum, investigate use GIS The T3G focus is on teaching and learning drinking water quality and chemistry, learn about -- not “how to do GIS better” but “how to help other inquiry-based models for your classroom, and find educators grasp why and how to teach with GIS, and water resources within your community. This threehow to learn more.” The T3G training is two days (4 day, hands-on workshop allows grade 4-10 science hours each) of synchronous interactive online trainteachers to gather information from expert presenters ing from ESRI the leading provider of GIS resources about how safe, reliable drinking water is delivered for education and industry. Learn more at https:// to your community, as well as drinking water issues community.esri.com/groups/k12-instruction/projects/ facing Minnesota. Meals and resource binder providt3g-teachers-teaching-teachers-gis ed. Choose between two graduate credits or stipend.

ChemEd Conference, July 21 – 25, Naperville, Join the ranks of over 400 teachers that have particiIL pated in WaterWorks! throughout Minnesota over Join hundreds of people who love chemistry and STEM education at North Central College for ChemEd 2019. This is your chance to connect and share ideas, discover and learn new labs and activi-

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the last 18 years. Funded by the Minnesota Dept. of Health and the American Waterworks Association.

Learn more at https://www.hamline.edu/education/ environmental/cgee/waterworks/

MnSTA Newsletter

Department of Education Opportunities Summer Institute for Climate Change Education, August 5-7, Washington DC

Climate Generation has offered the Summer Institute for Climate Change Education for the past 14 years as a way to give educators the tools and confidence to integrate climate change into their classroom. This summer, we are focusing on integrating climate change into social studies, humanities; and ELA at our Summer Institute in Washington D.C. August 5-7. We are so lucky to have partners Frank Niepold, NOAA’s Senior Climate Education Program Manager, and Natalie Stapert of the Lowell School helping us plan a fantastic agenda. Registration is open and scholarships are available. https://www.climategen.org/take-action/teachclimate-change/professional-development/ summer-institute/registration/?utm_source=C limate+Generation%3A+A+Will+Steger+Leg acy&utm_campaign=07d69bd6aa-CLIMATEGEN_CLU-FEBRUARY_2019-02-04&utm_ medium=email&utm_term=0_4574e77afe-07d69bd6aa-260161858

Lake Superior Shipboard Science Workshop, August 5 – 12, Duluth and Lake Superior

Learn about Great Lake tribal approaches to natural resource management and research incorporating Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Ojibwe Cultural Relationships to Water, and Western Science. Gain an understanding of Great Lakes ecology and water quality and get hands-on experience monitoring water quality and biota. Leave with exemplary curricula and resources Participants will convene in Duluth, Minnesota board a bus, travel to St. Ignace, Michigan, and sail across Lake Superior to Duluth on the S/V Denis Sullivan, arriving just in time for the Parade of Tall Ships to sail under the famous Duluth lift bridge.

Information and Application http://www.cgll.org/opportunities/

Minnesota Zoo: ZOOMS INSTITUTE for Teachers: August 5-8, Apple Valley

See the Zoo in a whole new way! This four day workshop will engage teachers in utilizing animals and the Zoo as a tool to integrate engineering concepts into their curriculum, based on the Minnesota State Science Standards. Sessions focus on Engineering BY Animals, Engineering FROM Animals (biomimicry), and Engineering FOR Animals.

Through hands on activities, expert talks and behind the scenes experiences, see how STEM is being used

Summer 2019

Minnesota Minerals Educationand Workshop, 18by aquarists, conservationists, zoo staffJune to help 20, Gfor Summer Institute for Climate Change care and conserve wildlife both in the zooEducaand in tion, August 5-7,more Washington DC the wild.

Learn at http://mnzoo.org/education/ Climate Generation has offered the Summer Institute schools-teachers/stem-programs/ for Climate Change Education the past 14 years Teacher Events and for Workshops as a way to give educators the tools and confidence Climate Change and the new Science Stanto integrate climate change into their classroom. dards, Sep. 28, Nov. 7, St.climate Cloud This summer, we Bloomington; are focusing on integrating Join into Climate Generation to unpack the change social studies, humanities; andnew ELAmidat dle and high school state science standards including our Summer Institute in Washington D.C. August climate causes, well as solutions, they 5-7. We change are so lucky to as have partners Frank as Niepold, relate to energy engineering!

NOAA’s Senior and Climate Education Program Manag• Gain experience phenomena-based er, and Natalie Stapert of with the Lowell School helping learning us plan a fantastic agenda. Registration is open and • Integrate climate change and American Inscholarships are available. dian contributions into science instruction rand Rapids • Identify learning progressions • Engage hands-onworkshop activities held to support the The MMEW is ainthree-day annually new science standards for K-12 earth science educators that offers short This day-long workshop is supported

by Xcel Encourses and field trips focused on the geology and ergy.

More Information at https://www.climategen. mineral resources of Minnesota. The workshops have org/take-action/teach-climate-change/professionalbeen held in various locations throughout Minnesota development/workshops/educator-workshops-newsince its inception in 1997. The workshop is orgascience-standards-and-climate-change/ nized by the Minnesota Center for Mineral Resource

Teacher and School Awards Education.

Learn more.

Minnesota Minerals Education Workshop, June 18and Opportunities 20, Grand Rapids Green Ribbon School Award Forest Lake Area High School is a 2019 recipient The is a three-day workshop held Ribbon annually of theMMEW US Department of Education Green for K-12 earth science educators that offers short Schools Award. They join 34 other schools from coursesthe andnation field in trips focusedthis on the geology and across achieving prestigious.

A few mineral resources of Minnesota.

The workshops have highlights of their accomplishments are: been held in various locations throughout Minnesota • Energy reductions through the installation of since panels its inception in 1997. The workshop is orgasolar nized byStudent the Minnesota Center for Mineral Resource • well-being support provided by Education.

Learn more. junior and senior students serving a mentors for ninth Teaching the Outdoor Classroom Workshop, June and tenth in graders 17-20, Fergus Falls • Comprehensive environmental education in Explore innovative ways an outdoor classroom multiple content areas andtoause strong environmental during this preK-12th immersion workshop at the club.

Prairie Wetlands Learning Center. is held concurHighlights of their programs areItavailable at rently with the Summer Explorers Biology Camp for https://www2.ed.gov/programs/green-ribbon-schools/ youth entering 5th and 6th grades.

Observe profesawards.html Information about the award program sionals apply is outdoor classroom methods by and howand to apply available at https://education. leading the same youth daily, outdoors, in a supportmn.gov/MDE/dse/stds/sci/grn/ ive, team-teaching environment. Learn more.

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Department of Education Opportunities Grants for STEM Education Programs

nVent believes a skilled workforce, one that reflects the diversity of our customers and communities, is critical to the ongoing success of our company and society as a whole. To help develop a healthy talent pipeline, nVent focuses a portion of its giving on STEM – science, technology, engineering and math – education opportunities for young people, particularly underrepresented and underprivileged groups in communities where nVent has business operations. nVent is especially interested in programs that offer hands-on learning experiences and introduce young people to STEM related career opportunities. More Information at https://www.nvent. com/us/en/about-nvent/corporate-responsibility/ Community-Involvement/nvent-grants.html

NCSE Climate and Evolution Workshop Funding for Schools or Districts

The National Center for Science Education is offering funding for a limited number of professional development workshops specifically focused on teaching evolution and climate change effectively and confidently. Proposals can be submitted by single schools, school districts, collaboration of districts, or other area cooperatives. Funding can cover participant stipends, substitutes, materials, meals and refreshments, and limited travel. NCSE Teacher Ambassador will work with teacher colleagues on teaching climate change and evolution accurately, effectively, and without conflict. For more information contact hoge@ncse.com.

Knowles Science Teacher Fellowship

Each year, the Knowles Teacher Institute awards approximately 35 Fellowships to early-career high school biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics teachers. Through our signature program, we support our Fellows in their efforts to develop teaching expertise and lead from the classroom.

Throughout the five-year program, Knowles Teaching Fellows receive mentoring and coaching from a staff of experienced teachers and teacher educators, financial support, and membership in a nationwide community of more than 400 science and mathematics educators. More information at https:// knowlesteachers.org/teaching-fellowship

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School Programs and Resources

ZOOMS Design Challenge: Engineering for Animals

The Minnesota Zoo ZOOMS Design Challenge offers students in grades 3-12 a chance to use the engineering design process to develop a solution to a ‘real’ problem faced by zookeepers and staff at the Minnesota Zoo. From designing an animal enrichment to renovating a zoo exhibit, the problem will challenge students to use STEM to solve the problem and present a solution. Teachers receive resources and support from the zoo to ensure a meaningful experience for all. Selected students will be invited to showcase their solutions at the ZOOMS Design Exhibition in March 2020 at the Minnesota Zoo for a chance to win a backstage pass experience with our animals! FREE for all teachers and students to participate! More information and registration http://mnzoo.org/education/schoolsteachers/stem-programs/

Wolf 101, videoconference

My, what big ears you have! Join us as we look at the physical and social adaptations wolves use to survive in their environment. Students will be given an opportunity to observe our ambassador wolves utilizing these amazing tools. This is one of six videoconferencing programs offered by the International Wolf Center. They also offer a Wolf Discovery kit for classroom use. Learn more at https://www.wolf.org/programs/educator-resourceswolf-link/video-conferencing/

The Human Element, Video and lesson plans In an arresting new documentary from the producers of Chasing Ice, environmental photographer James Balog captures the lives of everyday American on the front lines of climate change. Four sections of the documentary (Earth, Air, Water and Fire) and related lesson materials are available Free to educators. More information at https://thehumanelementmovie.com/resources/

Student Programs, Awards and Competitions

Summer Engineering Experience for Kids (SEEK), June 17 – July 5, Brooklyn Park

This FREE three week summer enrichment program serves current 3rd – 5th grade students.

Participating students will experience STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) based curriculum and projects at a local school.

MnSTA Newsletter

Department of Education Opportunities Each week, the students will take on a new project, culminating with a presentation, design competition and physical competitions Here is the video from last summer’s program https://www.youtube.com/wa tch?v=ROpPhcwyQ6E&feature=youtu.be. Information and application at http://applyseek.nsbe.org

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 EX.I.T.E Camp for Girls, July 29, 31, Aug. 2, judi.iverson@state.mn.us 6, 8, Bloomington Send submissions for the Science Update to John EX.I.T.E. (EXploring Interests in Technology and Olson john.c.olson@state.mn.us Engineering) Camp at the PACER Center is a free summer STEM camp for middle school girls with Other Minnesota Links: disabilities. Camp encourages future engagement Minn. Dept. of Education Science Page http:// with STEM subjects and helps girls discover the education.state.mn.us/MDE/dse/stds/sci/ range of possibilities that exist through amazing exMinn. Science Teachers Association mnsta.org periments, activities and mentors. Campers learn how Frameworks for MN Science and Mathematics fun these subjects can be and many make friendships Standards http://scimathmn.org/stemtc/ that last beyond camp. Application deadline is May Get – STEM Connections between schools and 31. Learn more at https://www.pacer.org/students/ businesses https://getstem-mn.com exite.asp Mn-STEM STEM programs and resources for Science and Engineering Competitions families, schools and community http://mn-stem.

• Minnesota Science Olympiad http:// com/stem/ www.minnesotaso.org Sharing Environmental Education Knowledge • Science and Engineering Fair and Sci environmental education resources https://www.

ence Bowl http://www.mnmas.org seek.state.mn.us • FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Chal Minnesota Academy of Science: Science Fair,

lenge, FIRST Robotics https://hightech Science Bowl and other competitions kids.org/ http://www.mnmas.org • Supermileage Challenge https://www.

Mn DNR Education website: Curriculum, pro mteea.net/index.php/competitions/super fessional development, posters, etc. mileage http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/education/index.html • Real World Design Challenge http:// 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.

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MnCOSE ‘19

MnCOSE MnSTA Conference on Science Education River’s Edge Convention Center St. Cloud, MN

Nov. 7-9, 2019 Raising the standard of science education in Minnesota.

In May 2019, the final draft of the Minnesota State Science Standards will be released. Not sure how to incorporate the new standards in your classroom? Come check out a variety of presentations from around the nation. Not sure what new curriculum you should choose? Check out the wide list of vendors that will be attending the conference.

Conference at a Glance Thursday ALL DAY: Climate Generation EVENING​: Jeffers Workshop Film Screening

Friday All Day

Saturday Morning

MnCOSE Sessions Visit-a-Vendor Keynote Address Social Event

Hands-On Workshops Relicensure-in-a-Day

Lodging Use reservation code "MnCOSE19"

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Courtyard by Marriott (preferred hotel) 320-654-1661

MnSTA Newsletter

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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 Past-President

Josh Tharaldson

Marshall County HS

301 W. Minnesota Ave.

218-847-7225

jtharaldson@mccfreeze.org

Michele Koomen

Gustavus Adolphus College 800 W College Ave.

Newfolden, Mn 56738 St. Peter, MN 56082

612-669-2319 mkoomen@gustavus.edu

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

Stacy Bartlett

Chemistry

Angela Osuji

Washburn High School

612-668-3400

Angela.Osuji@mpls.k12.mn.us

Earth Science

Haley Kalina

Alexandria Public School

320-762-7900

hkalina@alexschools.org

651-239-7685

Stillwater Area High School

5701 Stillwater Blvd N Stillwater, MN 55082

bartletts@stillwaterschools.org 1500 James Ave. N. Minneapolis, MN 55411 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

Jill Jenson

Glacier Hills Elem School of Arts &Sciences

651-332-2185

jill.jensen@district196.org

Diana Fenton

College of St. Benedict/St. Johns U

320-363-5968

dfenton@csbsju.edu

Higher Ed Informal Ed Alternative Ed.

David Grack Garret Bitker

3825 Glacier Rd. Eagan, MN 55123

jill.jensen@charter.net 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

Thomas Tomashek

Minnetonka High School

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

Private Schools

Matthew Inman

Shattuck-St. Mary’s School

507-333-1537

minman@s-sm.org

18301 Hwy 7

Minnetonka, MN 55345

1000 Shumway Ave.

Fairbault, MN 55021

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

Michael Urban

Bemidji State University

218-775-3782 murban@bemidjistate.edu

Region 3: Northeast

Jennifer Gagner

218-729-8214 jgagner@proctor..k12.mn.us

1500 Birchmont Dr.

Pike Lake Elementary

Region 4: Westcentral Matt Dahmen

YES-Youth Educational Services

matthew.dahmen@yes.k12.mn.us

Region 5: Northcentral Lisa Pingrey

National Joint Powers Alliance

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Bemidji, MN 56601

5682 Martin Rd Duluth, MN 55811 425 7th St. S. Moorhead, MN 56560 202 12th St. NE Staples, MN 56479

307-624-0627 lisa.pingrey@sourcewell-mn.org

MnSTA Newsletter

MnSTA Board Directory Region 6: Southcentral Jeremy Brady

Montevideo High School

320-269-6446X1122

jbrady@montevideoschools.org

Region 7: Eastcentral

Karen Bengtson

St. Cloud Area School Dist. 472

320-253-9333

karen.bengtson@isd742.org

Region 8: Southcentral Jeremy Brady

Region 9: South Region 10: Southeast

Montevideo High School

320-269-6446X1122

jbrady@montevideoschools.org

David Borslien

St. Peter High School

507-943-4212 ext 6028

dborslien@stpeterschools.org

Denine Voegeli

Plainview-Elgin-Millville Schools

507-867-2521 Ext. 3631

dvoegeli@isol2899.k12.mn.us

Region 11: Metro

Cathy Kindem 651-423-7911

Region 11: Metro

Claire Hypolite

Edison High School

612-668-1300X34110

612-24207333

1501 William Ave. Montevideo, MN 56265 1000 44th Ave N. St. Cloud MN 56303 1501 William Ave. Montevideo, MN 56265 1221 Broadway Ave. St. Peter, MN 56082

Rosemont-Apple Valley-Eagan cathy.kindem@district196.org

701 1st St SE 3455 153rd St. W

Elgin, MN 55932

Rosemont, MN 55068

700 22nd Ave. NE Minneapolis, MN 55418

claire.hypolite@mpls.k12.mn.us

Ancillary Positions: Database

Mark Lex

marklex@umn.edu

Webmaster

Eric Koser 507-387-3461 x 322

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

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

Newsletter

Jerry Wenzel

Retired

:jerrywenzel@brainerd.net

Mankato, MN 56001 W:

NSTA Dist. IX Director

Brenda Walsh 952-975-6726

Conference Coordinator Mary Haberman

Eden-Prairie High School brenda_walsh@edenpr.org

17185 Valley View Rd Eden Prairie, N 55346

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

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