MSTA Newsletter
Mississippi Science Teaching Association
ARE YOU READY?!
2024 Conference will take place at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino in Biloxi, MS, October 20-22, 2024. We encourage you to stay in the on-site hotel so that you have easy access.
Early bird registration will end September 23, 2024. After this date, you will not receive a conference T-shirt as part of the registration fee, and you are filling out the late registration form.
If you haven’t yet registered, click here: https://docs.google.com /forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyxS0S09WWxUlPTv5mC8C8EJJ7F7UtOgaDhmn8nM4w MocW7g/ viewform
Show your school spirit! Bring your school logo lanyard for your name badge.
Payments Link: https://mississippi-science-teachers-association.myshopify.com/
Be a Presenter!!!!!
You are a vital part of this organization. You are a leader. You have abilities that you can share with others. This is your networking opportunity.
You should present a session (or two!!!) at the 2024 MSTA Conference. Select a topic and a grade level. Develop your idea and submit your proposed session here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdai3VR2_p_snTmWQF7E_5D68so5Yw0 I_3b0_LHCM9Y16ohVg/viewform
From MSTA President, Cindy Alsworth-Jones
Hello! We are on COUNTDOWN to CONFERENCE! In just about a month, we will be meeting at the Golden Nugget to NETWORK, LEARN, and MEET new and old friends! I’m so excited that we will be having a conference!
We have made some changes in the schedule as you can see elsewhere in the newsletter. The Keynote will be on Monday instead of Tuesday. Mississippi’s own, Dr. Alicia Conerly, NSTA President, will be our Keynote Speaker! I can’t wait to hear what she has to say to us. We are again meeting by Districts so that you can network and learn about opportunities within MSTA.
We have a SCIENCE TRIVIA Night planned, hosted by Dr. Betsy Sullivan. Build a team and come to win prizes! This will count for CEUs since it will be science oriented.
We, however, are in dire need of presenters! We need a ton of presenters to volunteer. Please don’t think you have nothing to share because YOU DO! You may have tweaked a lab, or an activity that others would love to put into their arsenal of teaching tools. Please volunteer! We need you!
Don’t forget we will be electing a new President-Elect. We have two outstanding candidates! Dr. Adrine Williams and Ms. Chantelle Herchenhahn. They both have amazing resumes and either will lead our organization into a brighter future.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your president. It’s been an honor to work alongside the most amazing volunteer board. When you see a board member, thank them for their service. They don’t receive a penny for their service and in fact, must cover all their own expenses! That’s true dedication to Mississippi Science Teachers.
Again, thank you! Hope to see you at conference!
Cindy Alsworth-Jones
Golden Nugget room reservations: The group code for MSTA attendees is S240330. Attendees may make their reservations by calling 1-800-777-7568 and using the group code S240330, or they may click on this link (no group code needed if they use this link): https://goldennuggetbiloxi.reztrip.com/ext/promoRate?property=1262&mode=b&pm=true&sr=871188 &vr=3
Golden Nugget Hotel reservations for Fall 2024: Deadline for Hotel group rate: September 23, 2024.
All rates and a $14. 99 per night resort tee are subject to Harrison County room tax, currently five percent (5 %), and state sales tax, currently seven percent (7 %). County and state taxes are subject to change without prior notice.
ALL hotel rooms are non-smoking. A $200 charge will be assessed for smoking in a hotel room.
Our Featured Guest Speaker
Dr. Alicia Conerly
2024-2025 NSTA President
Dr. Alicia Conerly is married to Jeffre Conerly, Sr., and mother to Rayden, Immanuel, and Jeffre Jr. She is a two-time Amazon Best Selling Christian Women's Book Author. She has worked in education for over 14 years and has served in the following capacities: substitute teacher, elementary and high school teacher, District Science Specialist, MTSS, Dyslexia, 504, and ELL Coordinator. She has also served as an Assistant Principal and Principal. As a former principal, she holds the record for applying for and receiving over $190,000 in grant money for her school.
Dr. Conerly has received several state and national science awards and has served on several science award review panels statewide and nationally. In 2014, she received the NSTA Shell Urban Science Educator’s Award. In 2016, she was the winner of the NSTA Grand Prize Shell Science Lab Challenge, an award of $20,000. In 2017 she received the MSTA Informal Science Educator Award. Also in 2017, Dr. Conerly established the Barnes-Conerly STEM Scholarship for deserving high school graduates and founded PUSH 4 Science Educational Services, LLC. Dr. Conerly was the School Choice Leadership recipient in 2018, 2020, and 2022.
As an administrator, Dr. Conerly was a 2021 Lawrence County School District’s Administrator of the Year finalist. In 2022, she was Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce’s Administrator of the Year. Dr. Conerly serves in the capacity of Mississippi Professional Educators District 7 Board of Directors and is the NSTA President. She has been featured in the I was a Kid Newsletter and mentioned in blogs.
https://wordinblack.com/2022/11/stem-is-the-future-how-do-we-get-black-kids-involved/
https://www.enterprise-journal.com/news/s-pike-teacher-wins-national-science-prize-new-lab
https://www.shell.us/sustainability/supporting-education/meet-the-incoming-award-winning-nsta-president-dralicia-conerly.html
httpswwwiwasakidcomaliciaconerly ://../
We greatly appreciate the efforts of our friends at Northeast Mississippi Community College for simplifying our CEU process and for providing the certification process at an affordable price.
Attendees can earn up to 2.0 CEUs through Northeast Mississippi Community College. We will have a session record sheet to keep up with what sessions they attend. There is a simple online form to fill out that will require them to pay with a credit card. The cost is $12.
Sunday, October 20, 2024
Time Description
1:00 – 7:00 pm
2:00 – 3:00 pm
3:00 - 5:00 pm
3:15 – 4:15 pm
4:20 – 5:20 pm
5:30 – 7:30 pm
8:00 am – 4:00 pm
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
8:30 – 9:30 am
9:40 – 10:40 am
10:50 – 11:50 am
12:00 – 2:00 pm
2:10 – 3:10 pm
3:20 – 4:20 pm
4:30 – 5:30 pm
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Registration in Round Island
Concurrent Sessions I
Biloxi Bay Field Sampling Trip
Concurrent Sessions II
Concurrent Sessions III
StemFest in Ship Island ABC
Monday, October 21, 2024
Registration in Round Island
Silent Auction in Petit Bois
Exhibits in Grand Ballrooms A, B, C (The Exhibit Hall will be closed during the District Meetings and General Assembly/Luncheon.)
Concurrent Sessions IV
Concurrent Sessions V
District Meetings
General Assembly / Luncheon in Ballroom Awards Presentations
At the conclusion of the Luncheon/Assembly T-shirts may be picked up at the back of the ballroom. Please do NOT attempt to pick up shirts while the meeting is in sessionl.
Concurrent Sessions VI
Concurrent Sessions VII
Concurrent Sessions VIII
Science Trivia in Ballroom
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Time Description
8:00 – 10:00 am
Registration in Round Island
8:00 – 10:00 am T-shirt pickup in Petit Bois
8:00 – 11:00 am
8:00 – 11:00 am
8:00 – 9:00 am
9:05 – 10:05 am
10:10 – 11:10 am
11:20 am – 12:20 pm
12:25 – 1:25 pm
Silent Auction item pick up in Registration (Round Island)
Exhibits in Grand Ballrooms A, B, C
Concurrent Sessions IX
Concurrent Sessions X
Concurrent Sessions XI
Concurrent Sessions XII
Concurrent Sessions XIII
You are required to stay in a session for the full time to get credit for that session.
Youth Mental Health First Aid
The University of Mississippi has received funding to get people trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid. We also have funding to train individuals to be instructors to train others in Youth Mental Health First Aid. If you or anyone you know would be interested in being trained or in becoming an instructor, please feel free to contact me and I will connect you to the team. The training to get Youth MHFA trained usually costs $60-80 per person but the federal grant funding will cover this - making it free. The instructor training is $2,200 but the grant funding will cover this - making it free AND the grant will pay a stipend to anyone who becomes an instructor. For example, someone at your school/youth organization/church could become an instructor and then that person can train faculty/staff/parents - all free. You can find more information on the project website: https://www.youthmentalhealthms.com/
Marie Barnard, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Pharmacy Administration
Research Associate Professor in the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Graduate Program Coordinator
Project SCORE Director
Department of Pharmacy Administration
University of Mississippi mbarnard@olemiss.edu | www.olemiss.edu
Meet the Candidates
Every two years MSTA selects a President-elect. This person will work with the MSTA Board of Directors to prepare for the annual conference and assist the president in the duties of that position. The MSTA membership will vote for the next President-elect at the General Assembly. Here are our two candidates for President-elect.
Dr. Adrine R. Williams is an accomplished educator and leader in the field of science education. Currently serving as an instructor and program coordinator at Jackson State University, she focuses on fostering professional development for teachers. Adrine is also a district and DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging) representative on the board of the Mississippi Science Teachers Association.
With 17 years of experience in science education, Dr. Williams has made significant contributions throughout her career. During her tenure as a teacher in the Jackson Public School District, she demonstrated leadership by chairing and serving on various committees. Prior to her current position at Jackson State University, she excelled as a curriculum lead for the Jackson Public School District, where she provided valuable guidance to colleagues and supported effective instructional practices.
Dr. Williams' educational journey has been marked by continuous growth and achievement. She holds a bachelor's degree in Biology and a master's degree in Secondary Education, both from Jackson State University. Recently, she further advanced her expertise by earning a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from The University of Southern Mississippi.
Her comprehensive educational background has equipped Dr. Williams with a diverse skill set, enabling her to positively influence students with varying personalities and learning styles. She finds great satisfaction in motivating students to push beyond their perceived academic limits, fostering an environment of growth and achievement.
Dr. Williams' dedication to education, coupled with her extensive experience and academic credentials, positions her as a valuable asset in shaping the future of science education and teacher development.
Chantelle Herchenhahn is a lifelong science enthusiast and has served as a science educator for 34 years. Although she is a native of Petal, MS, Chantelle attended high school and college in Stephenville, Texas, earning her B.S. degree at Tarleton State University. She holds a Masters in Science Teaching from the University of Southern Mississippi and a National Board Certificate in Young Adolescent Science. Chantelle taught Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and varied other course offerings over her 32 years in the classroom at Forest High School in Forest, MS. She was selected as the 2009 Mississippi Teacher of the Year. She also received the Fred Brown Outstanding High School Teacher Award from our organization.
Ms. Herchenhahn also served as a basketball coach during her early career and was a Beta Club sponsor for the last twenty years. After retiring from the fulltime classroom, Chantelle now works as an educational consultant with science and math educators throughout the state. She also serves on the school board for Forest Municipal Schools. A member of MSTA throughout her career, Chantelle serves on the MSTA Board of Directors as District E Director and Legislative Liaison. She is also an active member of her church and a member of Delta Kappa Gamma.
Biloxi Bay Biological Sampling Field Trip
By Bobby Robinson and Corey Deer
Come and have fun with this hands-on ecological and taxonomical study of aquatic life in Biloxi Bay. There is enough room for 50 participants. Come and try your luck fishing while using science. Fishing is not required to be involved in this study. This is a 2-hour session, but you will need to provide your own transportation approximately 3 miles from the Golden Nugget.
•To fish, you must have you own fishing licenses (fresh and salt water).
• Click here for license: https://www.mdwfp.com /licenses-permits/fishing-license-requirements
•BYOB-Bring Your Own Bait (raw shrimp or worms work best)
•Bring your own fishing equipment.
The field study will encompass biological sampling and monitoring, measuring, classifying all species samples, discussions of adaptive features, and population/density studies.
This is not just fishing…This is an adventure!
Science
Join us Monday night at the conference for a science trivia night!
Make up a team – no more than 8 – and compete against other science teachers.
Questions will range from basic science knowledge to upper-level science knowledge. The questions will be in a variety of categories, including, but not limited to TV, History, Movies, Literature, Mathematics, Geography and Business.
There will be science-based music played and a prize given to the winning team! This night counts as a network building activity and science knowledge sharing, therefore you will receive 0.2 CEU!
Have you considered Citizen Science for your students?
Citizen Science allows you – and your students if you choose – to work with global scientists to gather real data for research. There are many projects ongoing in which you can participate. Click on the image below to learn more.
Environmental Educators and Every Teacher
The Mississippi Geographic Alliance (MGA) and the Mississippi Environmental Educators Alliance (MEEA) are poised to host an opportune gathering, uniting educators from across the state to advance environmental education. This collaborative effort will bring together formal and informal educators to analyze data collected through a comprehensive survey by the Southeastern Environmental Educators Alliance (SEEA).
The survey, spanning eight states, delves into the integration of environmental science into classrooms and explores how informal environmental education can complement formal learning environments. By bringing together educators from diverse backgrounds, this meeting aims to shape the future of environmental education in Mississippi and beyond.
"As a leader in geographic literacy, MGA is committed to fostering collaboration among educators and promoting environmental stewardship," said Dr. Ellen Foster, Executive Director of MGA. "This gathering underscores the importance of partnership between formal and informal educators in equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to address pressing environmental challenges."
The meeting will also highlight MEEA and Mississippi's role as the host 2025 Spring Southeastern Environmental Educators Alliance Conference. This partnership between educators and environmental organizations is crucial in providing access to relevant and dynamic environmental knowledge.
Key objectives of the gathering include:
• Exploring strategies to integrate environmental science into curricula
• Identifying opportunities for outside learning experiences
• Developing resources and lesson plans aligned with state standards
• The success of environmental education relies on the strength of collaboration between educators and organizations like MGA. By working together, we can ensure that students receive high-quality instruction that prepares them to become informed and engaged citizens.
For more information about MGA and its initiatives, please contact Angie Stallings, Project Manager for MGA, 601-665-3907.
About Mississippi Geographic Alliance (MGA):
The Mississippi Geographic Alliance (MGA) is dedicated to promoting geographic literacy across Mississippi. Through educational services, student outreach programs, and professional development for K-12 educators, MGA strives to prepare students to succeed in a diverse world while fostering a deeper understanding of our planet's resources.
About Mississippi Environmental Educators Alliance (MEEA):
The Mississippi Environmental Educators Alliance (MEEA) is committed to promoting environmental literacy and stewardship across Mississippi. Through collaboration and advocacy, MEEA works to empower educators with the resources and support needed to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.
SEE MOE
Heather Thornton, High School Representative
The ACT’s recent move to make its science section optional has ignited a lively discussion among educators and students alike. This change brings both exciting opportunities and potential challenges for those involved in science education. Here’s a closer look at what this shift might mean for you and your students.
The Upsides of an Optional Science Section
1. Less Test Anxiety: For many students, the ACT’s science section has been a significant source of stress. With it becoming optional, students might experience reduced anxiety and can channel their efforts into the sections where they feel more confident. This shift could help improve their overall performance on the test.
2. Showcasing Strengths: Students now have the chance to showcase their strengths more accurately. If science isn’t their forte, they can choose not to take that section, allowing their other skills to shine through. This choice could lead to a more authentic representation of their abilities and aspirations.
3. Emphasis on Practical Skills: Without the pressure of preparing for a standardized science section, educators can focus on fostering real-world scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. This can help students develop practical knowledge that’s often more valuable than test-taking strategies.
4. Customizable Assessments: The optional nature of the science section opens doors for teachers to explore new assessment methods that better align with their students’ needs. This flexibility can encourage innovative teaching practices and deeper engagement with science.
The Downsides of an Optional Science Section
1. Uneven Preparation: With the science section becoming optional, there’s a risk that some students might not receive consistent science education. This disparity could make it harder for colleges to gauge applicants' scientific reasoning skills, potentially complicating the admissions process.
2. Reduced Emphasis on Science: There’s a concern that the optional status might lead to less focus on science in high school curricula. If students and schools perceive less need to prepare for the science section, there could be a decline in engage ment with science courses, potentially affecting students' readiness for STEM fields.
3. Challenges in Benchmarking: The science section has been a standard measure of scientific reasoning. Its removal could make it tougher for educators to assess and compare students’ science skills, complicating curriculum development and student evaluations.
4. Curriculum Alignment Issues: Teachers may face difficulties aligning their curricula with a test that no longer uniformly assesses all students. This could create inconsistencies in how well students are prepared for college-level science courses, necessitating adjustments in teaching strategies and additional resources. 5. Equity Concerns: Students who opt out of the science section might be those struggling with the subject, potentially exacerbating existing educational inequalities. It’s crucial to ensure that all students still receive quality science instruction and support.
Navigating the Change
As a science teacher, embracing this change involves a thoughtful approach. Here are some strategies to help you and your students adapt:
- Prioritize Essential Skills: Continue to emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry in your lessons. These skills are valuable regardless of standardized testing requirements.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with evolving college admissions policies and adjust your teaching accordingly. Being aware of these changes will help you prepare students effectively for both standardized tests and realworld applications of science.
- Promote Well-Rounded Learning: Encourage a holistic approach to education that prepares students for a variety of future opportunities, whether or not they choose to take the optional science section. While the ACT’s decision to make the science section optional introduces both advantages and challenges, it also provides an opportunity to reevaluate and enhance how we teach science. By understanding these impacts and adapting to the changes, you can continue to offer high-quality science education and support your students’ success in an evolving academic landscape. (continued)
The Native Plant Producer Network (NPPN) will be hosting our first workshop for those interested in becoming producers and growing their own native wetland plants. This free one-hour workshop is open to all audiences and will be held Sunday, September 22nd at 4pm at the Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center located at 1815 Popp's Ferry Road, Biloxi.
During the workshop, participants will learn more about the background and need for increasing our stock of locally sourced wetland plants, the basic requirements for growing two key species, and how they can get further involved. Light refreshments will be served.
To register, please fill out the form found here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScuft2Cqgo6odQVHlJwNL6CxwxD6jTC mxViuZFnG4qBafWEHA/viewform?usp=sf_link
This is the first of several introductory workshops that NPPN will be holding for interested producers along the Gulf Coast. We anticipate hosting additional workshops in Pearl River, Hancock, and Jackson counties later this year and early next year, so don't worry if you can't make this one.
Below is an advanced training opportunity focused on growing wetland plants with the new Native Plant Producer Network project. Please visit the link below to register and contact information. This is also posted on the Master Naturalist website
• National Estuaries Day at the Grand Bay NERR, September 28th.
• Bays and Bayous Symposium at the Biloxi Convention Center, November 19 & 20.
MSTA Membership is renewed each year in October as part of your MSTA Conference payments and participation. Becoming a member is also available at any time throughout the year for new members or science educators who did not attend the yearly conference.
Please complete this membership form. If you would like pay by check or cash, it is $20.00. Credit card payments are $22 ($20 plus $2 credit card fee) https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfx6TxMasYXTBqIpU4Vu ZxgK6Jtx8_L9wtaISg8M1ok8HpyIQ/viewform?pli=1
Classroom Opportunities
MS Museum of Natural Science has a special exhibit through December 31, 2024—Dinosaurs around the World. Eleven animatronic dinosaurs bring this exhibit to life as you learn about the creatures that lived before the continents as we know them existed. https://www.mdwfp.com/museum-natural-science/dinosaurs-around-world-great-outdoors-exhibit
Learn more about MMNS workshops at https://www.mdwfp.com/museum-natural-science/teacher-workshops-and-resources Teacher kits are available for free (except for the cost of shipping back to the Museum) and include topics: Fossils, Rocks, and Minerals; Mammal Skulls; Birds; and Invertebrates. The Museum has many printable resources and online videos on their Kids Corner. The Museum offers specials programs that can be added on to a field trip. The topics are described in the Teacher’s Guide: https://www.mdwfp.com/sites/default/files/2024-03/teacher_guide.pdf Book your in-school programs from the Museum’s Outreach Educators for the school year. The Outreach Educators have several excellent topics available or can create a program to suit your needs https://www.mdwfp.com/museum-natural-science/statewide-outreach Learn more at https://www.mdwfp.com/museum/
FISHES: Fishermen Invested in Science, Healthy Ecosystems, and Sustainability
Date: Thursday, October 24, 2024 (All day)
Location: MSU CREC (1815 Popps Ferry Rd., Biloxi, MS 39532)
Coordinating Agency: Mississippi State University
Contact Name: Amanda Jargowsky
Contact Email: amanda.jargowsky@msstate.edu
Cost: $100, but scholarships may be available for those unable to pay the registration fee. For more information, contact the program coordinators.
Training Description: The fourth annual FISHES course will be held September 26th - October 24th, 2024!
The FISHES program is designed to extend practical, science-based information about fisheries management, fisheries science, and sustainability to fish enthusiasts in a user-friendly format. This in-person course consists of 20 hours of instruction: five 2-hour classroom sessions (light refreshments provided), one 5-hour field excursion, and 5 hours of required reading from the textbook written to accompany the course. The course is open to anyone ages 18 and up, and the registration fee is $100*. Completion of this course qualifies each participant to receive CEU credits through the Mississippi State University Extension Service Center for Continuing Education. Each participant will also receive a “swag bag” consisting of a SeaQualizer, a dehooker, and other on-the-water gear (a $150 value!). For more details, please refer to the syllabus here Space is limited to only 20 participants, so register now at this link! Feel free to visit the FISHES Facebook page at this link! Questions? Contact the program coordinators at amanda.jargowsky@msstate.edu. *Scholarships may be available for those unable to pay the registration fee. For more information, contact the program coordinators.
Field Trips and Programs
Center for Mathematics and Science Education (UM) https://cmse.olemiss.edu/ offers a Mobile Planetarium Program. In this program available from CMSE, teachers are provided with lesson plans and materials for classes that culminate in the Mobile Planetarium at the school. See their website for the cost.
Field Trips to CMSE include STEM Explorations (K-8) and STEM Excursions (7-12). STEM Experts (K-12) is an at school offering, where STEM Faculty or Ambassadors come to the classroom to offer dynamic demonstrations and engaging lessons. https://cmse.olemiss.edu/stem-experts/ CMSE also has laboratory materials, models, and objects (fossils, rocks, etc.) that are available for checkout for school use. There is no charge for the materials, but teachers are responsible for picking up and returning the borrowed materials. https://sites.google.com/go.olemiss.edu/cmseresources/home
Infinity Science Center is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. At the center, teachers can add Science Exploration Classes to a field trip. These include: Living and Working in Space, Explore the Solar System, and On a Microscopic Scale: The Micro World. Learn more at https://www.visitinfinity.com/field-trips/.
USM Marine Education Center offers a variety of field trips for schools from half day to 5-day studies. Halfday programs include Coastal Explorer and Miss Peetsy B Bayou Tour. Groups are limited to 150 participants including teachers and chaperones. Learn more at https://www.usm.edu/marine-education-center/plan-your-visit.php . The Marine Education Center offers professional development covering topics such as marine and coastal processes and issues. Request PD at 228-818-8095 or marine.education@usm.edu .
Rainwater Observatory has many presentations available focused on the planets in our solar system and can present planetarium shows. There are new indoor exhibits containing an impressive meteorite collection with such objects as a Mars meteorite, tektites and a piece of the Chelyabinsk meteorite that hit Russia in 2013! In addition, there is an amazing collection of rocks, minerals asteroid models, space science art exhibit and other astronomy related displays. There are also a number of large-scale outdoor exhibits such as solar system scale models and solstice-equinox alignment exhibits. The observatory is located near French Camp. Learn more at https://rainwaterobservatory.org/
LIGO Livingston is open for field trips Tuesday through Friday. The field trip reservation window opens at the end of July. The field trips are free and last about 3 ½ hours. Virtual field trips are still available. Teachers have the choice of booking a virtual tour of LIGO Livingston’s Observatory, a set of two fifteentwenty-minute inquiry-style activities, or a single subject virtual activity such as Engineering Design or a Refraction & Light using pennies. All virtual activities are designed to use regular household materials such as pennies, clear plastic cups, coffee mugs and popsicle sticks. Each virtual field trip is designed to take between 40 minutes to an hour. LIGO staff will use Zoom, Google Meet or Microsoft TEAMS to conduct the activity with your in-class or at-home virtual students. https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/LA/page/virtual-field-trips
Adopt-a-Stream Mississippi offers 1-2 hour classroom programs, in which students can performs water quality tests, and discover the macroinvertebrates that are found in different water qualities. Learn more and book a program at https://mswildlife.org/adopt-a-stream/.
Grand Bay NERR has On-the-Road programs are brought into schools upon request and are designed to fit the needs of the teacher. For inquiries about bringing your camp group to Grand Bay NERR, please contact Avery Beck at Avery.beck@dmr.ms.gov at least TWO months before your anticipated scheduled event. Learn more at https://grandbaynerr.org/outreach/education/on-the-road-program/
Teachers on the Estuary (TOTE) workshops are research and field-based training program offered by Grand Bay NERR. Teachers use TOTE to increase their understanding of estuary science, and they learn how to engage students in the investigation of changes in their local environment. With this program, teachers and students can interact with scientists, find information about local environmental issues, and participate in field trips and community conservation projects. It’s a learning experience you won’t forget and will love to take back to your students! TOTE workshops offer a minimum of 15 contact hours, and continuing education units (CEUs) are available. https://grandbaynerr.org/outreach/education/teacher-resources/teachers-on-the-estuary/
Mississippi Sandhill Crane NWR offers Ranger-led programs for small groups. These programs focus on the wildflowers, birds, or seasonal spectacles that are found on the site. Learn more at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/mississippi-sandhill-crane/visit-us/activities/education-programs.
Delta State University Center for Science and Environmental Education in Merigold, MS allows visiting school groups to explore wetland ecology. To plan a field trip, contact Dr. Eric Blackwell at eblackwell@deltastate.edu
Pascagoula River Audubon Center field trip themes can be customized to meet your needs. Prepared site visits include Birds and Bird Conservation, Estuaries and Ecosystems, Woods and Wetlands, Animals Needs and Structures, and Plant and Animal Adaptations. Learn more at https://pascagoula.audubon.org/programs/school-field-trips
Strawberry Plains Audubon Center has field trip and programs that can be customized to a teacher’s needs. Contact the center at SPACinfo@Audubon.org to book a program.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center exhibits include “Louie’s Lab” that is a hands-on interactive exhibit sponsored by the Mississippi Power Foundation. It is designed to teach students and visitors about energy, energy safety, and how to save energy. Students will also learn about renewable energy and why it is important to keep our environment clean. Learn more at https://lmdc.org/louies-lab/
Lynn Meadows staff will provide in classroom activities including Rigamajig and Imagination Playground for a special fee at https://lmdc.org/education-community/teacher-resources/ Their teacher’s guide correlates the exhibits to the state science standards: https://www.lmdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/MSTA-Lynn-Meadows-Discovery-Center-ST EM-REVISED2.pdf
Professional Development Opportunities
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum has a YouTube channel filled with teacher resources and professional development. It features content like learning to teach with objects, encouraging women in STEM, and visualizing data with space images. Check it out here. They also offer professional development for teachers. Click https://airandspace.si.edu/learn/professional-development#demand to learn more.
Miami University
Global Field Program
Miami University’s Project Dragonfly is accepting applications for 2025 Earth Expeditions graduate courses that offer extraordinary experiences at global field sites in 15 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. http://earthexpeditions.miamioh.edu/
Earth Expeditions can build toward the Global Field Program (GFP), a master's degree that combines summer field courses worldwide with web learning communities so that students can complete the GFP master's part-time from anywhere in the United States or abroad. Applications are now being accepted until January 15. Courses begin in May 2025. http://gfp.miamioh.edu/
Project Dragonfly also offers the Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) master's degree that combines web instruction from Miami University with face-to-face experiential learning and field study through several AIP sites in the U.S. Applications for Miami's 2025 cohorts are being now being accepted until February 15, with place-based experiences provided at zoos and botanical gardens in Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Detroit, Jacksonville, New York, San Diego, and St. Louis. http://AIP.MiamiOH.edu
In addition to our master's degree programs, Project Dragonfly's core online and AIP web+ graduate courses may be taken on a stand-alone basis for professional development and lifelong learning. https://miamioh.edu/cas/graduate-studies/project-dragonfly/professional-development-courses/index.html
Project Dragonfly reaches millions of people each year through inquiry-driven learning media, public exhibits, and graduate programs worldwide. Project Dragonfly is based in the biology department at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Established as a state university in 1809, Miami is one of the eight original Public Ivies and has a distinguished record of excellence in research and teaching in science and science education.
Spencer C. Pate Senior Program Assistant
Miami University | Project Dragonfly 111 Upham Hall Bishop Circle, Oxford, OH 45056 513-529-8576 | patesc@miamioh.edu
Student Competitions
Team Competitions for Students
Science Olympiad
This team competition tests students on application of knowledge and pre-built structures. It covers all aspects of science. There are elementary, middle school and high school levels.
Go to https://msscioly.wixsite.com/scioly for more information.
Mississippi Regional High School Science Bowl
This team competition test students on science and mathematics knowledge through live action quizzing. This regional competition is sponsored by MUW, the Department of Energy and the National Science Bowl. This competition is for high school teams. Go to https://www.muw.edu/scimath/activities/sciencebowl/ for more information.
Mississippi Regional Middle School Science Bowl
This team competition tests students on science and mathematics knowledge through live action quizzing. It is sponsored by the Mississippi School for Math and Science. Go to https://science.osti.gov/wdts/nsb/Regional-Competitions/Middle-School-Regionals/MS _Mississippi-Regional-Middle-School-Science-Bowl for more information.
Mississippi Robotics is a non-profit organization involved in training youth and teachers in science, technology, math, and engineering through practical hands-on activities. This STEM SKILLS Mississippi Competition is designed to exercise and measure the students’ ability in several important areas involving academic, skill, critical thinking, and strategy. STEM prize awards are earned. For more information, click https://mississippirobotics.org/
Did you know that Mississippi has science and engineering fairs? They never left! Encourage your students to run experiments and enter.
Click here to find out more!
For more information, click https://msspacegrant.org/
Do you want to be a part of the INFINITY Science Center educational program?
Then you should join this immersive training where you will work side by side with ISC’s education department to create and demonstrate science concepts through hands-on activities and labs for students and general museum guests.
This 60-hour -6 CEU program is a year-long program that gives you the opportunity to experience INFINITY through every season. You will also have the honor to serve as an INFINITY Outreach Ambassador in your community and be part of ISC special programs!
There is a $50 registration fee. There is a $40 CEU fee.
Title of: INFINITY Science Center Outreach Ambassador
Click to Register!
Contact Donna Torres at dtorres@visitinfinity.com or call 228-533-9025 ext. 323 with any questions.
Earn 4 CEUs by working with the Educational Department at INFINITY Science Center.
As a part of the Museum Studies program, you will work side by side with our educators assisting with lesson delivery, and special programming, and have the opportunity to learn new and engaging activities that you can take back to your classroom.
To earn the 4 CEU’s you must complete 40 hours within the program time frame. The schedule will be arranged based on your availability to complete 40 hours.
There is a nonrefundable $50 registration fee.
On your first day, you will complete CEU paperwork and will need to provide a check for $40 made payable to PRCC for your CEU transcript that will be mailed to you within two weeks following completion of the program.
Click to Register!
Contact Donna Torres at dtorres@visitinfinity.com or call 228-533-9025 ext. 323 with any questions.
Ingalls is giving STEM grant money to local educators in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Application are open NOW through October 18, 2024, for the annual grant program, which aims to boost science, technology, engineering and math education across the region.
Lisa Bradley manager, Corporate Stewardship & Community Relation Manager, stressed how crucial these grants are for inspiring the next generation of shipbuilders and innovators. “We want educators to apply and show us their STEM initiatives. Our aim is to empower teachers and show students the amazing careers STEM can offer.”
Over the past three years, Ingalls has invested more than $1.1 million in STEM education, supporting teacher training and impactful initiatives. Last year, 24 grants were awarded from nearly 80 applications.
Interested schools and organization can apply by visiting The Future Shipbuilder STEM Grand Application or emailing CommunityRelations@hii-ingalls.com. Application close on October 18, 2024, and awards will be announced in January.
“Our commitment to shaping the future of engineering and technology is reflected in our partnerships with local schools and colleges,” said Lisa. “Together, we can build a stronger STEM community and future workforce.”
To read more about the STEM grants Ingalls awarded for the 2023-2024 school year, click here: Ingalls Shipbuilding Awards $100,000 in STEM Grants (goodbarber.app)
Grant Opportunities
National Girls Collaborative Project
• What It Is: Mini-grants are awarded to girl-serving programs that focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to support collaboration, address gaps and overlaps in service, and share exemplary practices.
• Award: $1,000
• Deadline: Ongoing
• Application Requirements: At least two programs from distinct organizations listed on the NGCP Program Map must collaborate, with one chosen as the lead, located in a state or region currently offering mini-grants. Preference is given to innovative projects involving first-time collaborations. Projects must extend beyond a single day unless they are part of a larger event.
Toshiba America Foundation Grants
• What It Is: Supports inquiry-based projects designed by individual teachers and small teams of teachers for use in their own classrooms to improve teaching and learning in science and mathematics.
• Award: Up to $1,000 for K-5, up to $5,000 or over $5,000 for grades 6-12.
• Deadline: October 1 for K-5. March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1 for under $5k for grades 6-12. May 1 and November 1 for over $5k for grades 6-12.
• Application Requirements: For elementary, middle, or high school teachers with a creative proposal for enhancing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education through project-based learning with quantifiable results, consider identifying specific tools, resources, or technologies that could make learning math and science engaging and enjoyable for your students.
AEP
• What It Is: AEP has a special interest in science, mathematics, technology, the study of energy and a sustainable environment, and energy efficiency.
• Award: $100 to $500
• Deadline: Midnight on the third Friday in December
• Application Requirements: For pre-K-12 teachers who live or teach in the AEP service area, or communities with major AEP facilities.
National Science Foundation Discovery Research Grant
• What It Is: NSF offers this ed-tech grant to provide funding for STEM programs for pre-K–12 educators with financial need.
• Award: Varies
• Deadline: Submit a full grant proposal by the first Wednesday in October each year.
• Application Requirements: Choose the award on the list to review the specific guidelines.
Whole Kids Foundation
• What It Is: Through their Garden Grant Program, schools and nonprofit organizations turn outdoor spaces into powerful hands-on learning gardens that connect kids with food, spark their curiosity, and support classroom curriculum.
• Award: $3,000
• Deadline: March 1
• Application Requirements: K–12 schools or nonprofit organizations in the United States and Canada.
Edward C. Roy Jr. Award for Excellence in K-8 Earth Science Teaching
• What It Is: The award is designed to recognize one teacher of grades K-8 each year for their leadership and innovation in earth science education.
• Award: $2,500 and $1,500 grants to attend NSTA Conference
• Deadline: TBA for 2025
• Application Requirements: Must be full-time K-8 earth science teachers in the United States or United Kingdom, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to instruction. Required application materials include an essay, a detailed CV or resume, a recommendation letter from the principal, two additional recommendations from educational peers, and a standout earth science lesson plan.
Innovative Technology Education Fund
• What It Is: Supports the integration of innovative technology in education to improve engagement and learning outcomes.
• Award: Varies
• Deadline: January 31
• Application Requirements: Grants are typically awarded for a one-year period. Applicants must have the endorsement and backing of their superintendent or head of school, as well as their Information Technology department. Recipients are required to showcase adherence to grant conditions via quarterly reports, mid-project visits, and a final report. Eligible applicants are those whose charter has been in effect for at least three years. Proposals can target individual or multiple grade levels, whole schools, or involve partnerships with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports students and/or teachers from accredited or charter schools.
The Herb Society of America’s Classroom Herb Garden Grants
• What It Is: Supports the development of herb gardens in schools as a way to stimulate students’ interest in herb planting and gardening.
• Award: $300
• Deadline: To apply for a 2025 grant, visit the website in the summer of 2024 for more information.
• Application Requirements: K-12 educators who are interested in creating or maintaining an herb garden with their students. The project should have a clear educational outcome related to the study of herbs.
The Amoeba Sisters presents:
Biology Lessons for Use in the Classroom
Thursday, September 26
6-7pm Central Time
Join us for an exciting 1-hour webinar featuring the Amoeba Sisters, in person, as they show you how to use their latest lesson content!
*Completely free and open to everyone around the world! Free professional development certificates will be sent to all who attend live.
Register for this Free Virtual Professional Development Webinar with the Amoeba Sisters!
Exposure Labs team (the environmental impact film production company) is the creative team behind CHASING ICE, CHASING CORAL, and THE SOCIAL DILEMMA.
We're inviting educational partners a chance to offer their communities a FREE and VIRTUAL impact screening of the latest Exposure Labs film, CHASING TIME, before OCTOBER 31st. In this time of political divisiveness, we're offering this sneak peek screening to folks dedicated to healing our planet so that they can celebrate positive examples of how to heal our shared planet.
We know time is short, but we'd love for you to join us in sharing with your community, if schedules allow. Details below.
THE SCOOP: Exposure Labs is embarking on a quick and dirty impact campaign for our new short climate film Chasing Time. The goal is to provide engaged audiences who care about healing our shared planet with a FREE and virtual sneak peek at the film before October 31, 2024. And we want to do this in a way that creates as little work as possible for you. Importantly, in addition to the environmental themes of this film, there's also a human interest story here about legacy, intergenerational mentorship, and the role we all play in climate work, which makes it a great conversation starter for students and educator-mentors.
A LITTLE BACKGROUND: Chasing Time is the follow-up short to the 2015 feature Chasing Ice, which helped move a whole generation forward in terms of understanding that climate change was real, through the stunning photography and video of a National Geographic team led by photographer James Balog. The film won many awards, but more importantly, it was screened at the U.N. and placed at the center of U.S. policy discussions regarding environmental actions, moving the needle on climate change awareness and action.
THE NEW FILM: Chasing Time is a 40-minute short that joins James Balog and his team as they return to one of the most important glaciers from the first film, while also reflecting on themes of legacy, mentorship, and what it means to be involved in the climate movement for the long haul. Chasing Time premiered at Hot Docs in April 2024, and has screened at Seattle International Film Festival, MountainFilm, and more.
THE OFFER: For all of our impact screening partners, we'd love to provide, at no cost to you and your community:
• A private, customized Eventive page facilitating a virtual screening (5-day window) before Oct 31, 2024
• Q&A video with the co-directors
• A discussion guide
• Promotional copy + social media graphics templates If you're up for a conversation, we'd love to talk with you!
For more information, contact Julie Keck, Impact Producer / Chasing Time Exposure Labs