RI Science Professional Development and Student

Opportunity Bulletin
September 19, 2014
This bulletin will be sent on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.
If you would like to share an event, quality resource, or other opportunity, please follow the directions for doing so at
the bottom of the newsletter.
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issues

New In This
Bulletin
P.D. for
Teachers
Student
Opportunities
Job
Opportunities
Teacher
Resources
News NGSS News
New In This Bulletin:
NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer's
expedition, Our Deepwater
Backyard: Exploring Atlantic
Canyons and Seamounts 2014
Begins Live Video Feeds
September 19
th

Rhode Island Envirothon
Information Session
September 24
th
from 4:00 to
6:00 PM
2014 RI Manufacturing
Educational Awareness
Experience October 1
st

2015 Rhode Island Science Olympiad Fall Coaches Meeting October 6
th

Project Lead The Way Conference, October 17
th
Register by October 9
th

Global Exploration for Educators Organization Offers International Travel for
Educators Discounted Rate until October 13
th

Teaching NGSS in First Grade Is Topic of October 22
nd
Webinar
Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Video Contest Apply by October 31
st

Registration Now Open for Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Program Deadline for
projects s January 30
th

Job Opportunities:
FT Chemistry & General Science/ESL (2 positions) Woonsocket High School
Woonsocket Public Schools is seeking to fill two positions, one in chemistry and one in general science/ESL, for the
2014-15 school year. Candidates must hold the appropriate science certificates, must hold or be willing to obtain RI
Certification as a Teacher of ELL's, experience working with students from culturally and linguistically diverse
backgrounds highly recommended.
Position Type: Full-time
Positions Available: 2
Job Category:
Classroom Teacher > Science: Chemistry and General Science/ESL
Job Requirements



Bachelors degree
Citizenship, residency or work VISA in United States required
Contact:
William McGowan, HR Coordinator
108 High Street
Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895
Phone: 401-767-4611
Email: jwolfgang@woonsocketschools.com
Equal Opportunity Employer
Woonsocket Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on
the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union
status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or
disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals
who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation.

News:
Study: Why students leave high school before graduation
A recent study finds there is no single reason that students leave high school before graduation, but rather there are
various factors, including toxic environments, poor relationships with teachers, parents and others, and a lack of
support. The report highlights ways schools can help retain students. District Administration magazine online (9/15)
How some educators leverage project-based learning
Project-based learning is becoming more commonplace in today's classrooms, according to this article, which
spotlights how three educators use PBL. One educator organized a project in which students tested a Chevrolet Volt
and compared the electric car to a pickup truck's energy consumption. eSchool News (free registration) (9/15)
Why Don't More Men Go Into Teaching?
"Why don't more men go into teaching" is the big question asked by New York Times education writer Motoko Rich,
in a September 6 column. Noting that more than 80% of elementary and middle school teachers are women, Rich
writes, "Educators, advocates and lawmakers fight bitterly about tenure, academic standards and the prevalence of
testing, but one thing most sides tend to agree on is the importance of raising the status of teaching so the
profession will attract the best candidates... A change in the gender imbalance could sway the way teaching is
regarded. Jobs dominated by women pay less on average than those with higher proportions of men, and studies
have shown that these careers tend to enjoy less prestige as well." Read more.
Teachers reveal their favorite mobile apps
School technologists and teachers are using digital tools and mobile applications to improve teaching and
collaboration. This article lists several tools, including Remind, an app that allows teachers to send mass messages,
and Class Dojo, which helps teachers monitor student behavior. National Public Radio/npr Ed blog (9/16)
Poll: High-school students are interested in STEM careers
Science, technology, engineering and math fields appeal to today's high-school students, according to a recent report
that surveyed more than 200 high-school students. Ninety-seven percent said they have plans to attend college, with
many indicating interest in engineering, computer science and other STEM-related fields. Forbes (9/15)
What keeps girls from studying physics and STEM - The Seattle Times
EVERY student returning to school this fall should have the opportunity to prepare for the rapidly growing job
opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math - also known as STEM. But many students, especially
women and underrepresented minorities, needlessly opt out - or are shut out - of discovering a passion or talent for
one of these subjects.
New science standards require Ky. students to think for themselves (WDRB)
It's mid-morning and the seventh graders in Molly Duffield's third-period class at Newburg Middle School are walking
around the room with yardsticks, golf balls and scientific calculators. "How does the height a ball is dropped from
affect how many times it bounces?" asked Duffield, who has been teaching science the last four years. Only a few
years ago, Duffield might have stood at the front of the room and asked her students to memorize and recite the



different forms of energy. It's all part of the Next Generation Science Standards a new set of academic guidelines
that teachers across Kentucky are putting into practice this year.
Ohio bill drops one attack on science education, picks up another (ars technica)
Recently, we covered a bill that was introduced in Ohio to deemphasize teaching the scientific process and open the
door for people to object to scientific instruction on political grounds. While under consideration, the text of the bill
has been modified considerably. Gone is the language about politics, and in its place is a provision that uses language
promoted by a think tank that supports intelligent design. First, the good news: initially, the bill would prohibit
"political or religious interpretation of scientific facts in favor of another" while directing teachers to "focus on
academic and scientific knowledge rather than scientific processes." Read more here

NGSS News:
SD Board of Education sets sights on new science, arts, and technology standards (KEVN)
New state standards for science, educational technology, and the fine arts may be coming to public schools in the Mt.
Rushmore State. The state Board of Education convened in Rapid City to hold the first of four meetings to discuss the
proposed changes. The board says the changes are necessary to keep South Dakota students competitive with those
in other states. That's as some residents take issue with the proposed changes. One Sioux Falls woman says the
proposed South Dakota standards closely resemble those of the 'Next Generation Science Standards.'

Teacher Resources:
RIDE provides update on the RI Interim Assessments
RIDE is working on phase 2 of the Instructional Support System which includes decoupling of the RI Interim
Assessments from the previous Instructional Management System and making reports available through the new
Instructional Support System. RIDE is planning a soft launch of the revamped Interim Assessments in October with the
goal of making the system fully available to all LEAs in November. The Interim Assessments will continue to offer two
options: fixed form assessments that can be administered any time during the year and a test construction tool that
allows educators to create their own tests. While the fixed forms assess mathematics and English language arts
content, the test construction tool contain items for mathematics, English language arts, science and social
studies. Both assessment options will be available for grades 3-11. Please contact Ana Karantonis at
ana.karantonis@ride.ri.gov with any questions.
COSEE Ocean Education Resources - http://www.cosee.net/
The mission of the Centers for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence (COSEE) Network is to spark and nurture
collaborations among research scientists and educators to advance ocean discovery and make known the vital role of
the ocean in our lives. The mission reflects the three-fold partnership, which composes each COSEE Center-
partnerships between formal and informal education institutes and research institutes.
RI Native Plant Guide - http://web.uri.edu/rinativeplants/about/
This online tool is a simple way to find the perfect native plant for your property. The RI Native Plant Guide comes to
you after three years of research and development by the URI Outreach Center, the RI Natural History Survey and
a team of reviewers including professionals in the horticulture industry, URI faculty and staff, landscape ecologists,
propagators and botanists.
SEARCH for over 400 species of plants native to Rhode Island!
PLUG in your info (i.e., shade tolerant, perennial, attracts pollinators, etc.) to narrow the list. Now you've
found the right plant for the right place for the right function!
CLICK on the result for photos of the plant and a listing of local retailers who carry it in stock!
As our region becomes more developed, it is important to consider the impact of our yards on the
environment. Native plants are the foundation of a healthy ecosystem, providing food and shelter for wildlife and
beneficial insects. This fall - one of the best times of year for planting - consider including native plants in your
garden!
Have questions or comments? Please contact us at outreach@uri.edu

Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers



NEW!!! NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer's expedition, Our Deepwater Backyard: Exploring
Atlantic Canyons and Seamounts 2014 Begins Live Video Feeds September 19
th

The NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer's current expedition, Our Deepwater Backyard: Exploring Atlantic Canyons and
Seamounts 2014, is under way and runs through Oct. 7.

Live video feeds of our remotely operated vehicle (ROV) dives began on Sept. 19, and can be viewed at
http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/media/exstream/exstream.html.
All ROV dives will be streamed live to our website.

And be sure to check out the associated education resources available at
http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/explorations/ex1404/background/edu/edu.html to help bring the expedition
alive in the classroom!

About the Expedition
On this expedition, we will visit several Atlantic Canyons and New England Seamounts that are largely unexplored.
That means that scientists and online viewers will be the first humans to ever set eyes on much of what the ROV is
showing us!

The Atlantic Canyons, just off the Eastern Seaboard, are home to a diversity of fish, deep-sea corals, and other
interesting life. These canyons, numbering in the hundred, link the continental shelf to the deep sea, acting as
conduits that funnel pollutants, food for marine life, and sediments from shallow to deeper waters.

The New England Seamount Chain is made up of dozens of extinct underwater volcanoes that extend from the edge
of the U.S. continental shelf off the coast of the Northeast U.S. about 700 miles eastward across the Atlantic basin.
These features are geologically diverse and are often biological hotspots, only two of the many reasons scientists are
interested in them.

Check out the image and video gallery and watch as we update it throughout the expedition:
http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/explorations/ex1404/logs/photolog/welcome.html.
Watch live: oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/media/exstream/exstream.html
Rhode Island Envirothon Information Session September 24
th
from 4:00 6:00 PM
Rhode Island Envirothon is holding an informational session/open house for potential coaches, advisors, teachers and
leaders who have an interest in helping to work with a team of middle or high school students. The information
session will be held at:
Greggs Restaurant 4120 Quaker Lane (Route 2) in North Kingston, RI
Wednesday September 24, 2014 from 4 to 6 pm.

Rhode Island Envirothon is a hands-on, team competition for RI middle and high school students, held in May.
The competition covers the following environmental topics:
Forestry, Wildlife, Aquatic Ecology, Soils and Land Use, and this years Environmental Issue Urban and
Community Forestry.
The mission of Rhode Island Envirothon is to develop knowledgeable, skilled and dedicated citizens who are
willing and prepared to work towards achieving and maintaining a natural balance between the quality of life and
the quality of the environment.
Our motto is to teach students how to think, not what to think.
We provide a National Envirothon Curriculum, which is 87% aligned to the National Science Standards.
We offer hands-on workshops for your students and teachers, given by local professionals.
We offer partnerships with various RI Environmental Agencies.
We provide a soil start-up kit, video library and maintain on-line resources.
We sponsor the RI winning team at the North American Envirothon competition in July.
How can your school start an Envirothon Team?
Obtain administrative approval for the Program.



Recruit an advisor.
Register your school with RI Envirothon, Inc.
Visit our RI Envirothon website for resource information and calendar of meetings and workshops.
Incorporate the Envirothon program into classroom curriculum or after school club, and begin recruiting students
for your Envirothon team.

Please RSVP to President@rienvirothon.org. If you cant make it but would like further information please contact RI
Envirothon at Tel. (401) 500-0399 or Fax: (401) 934-0843
NSTA Teacher Awards Programs
NSTA is offering 19 different award programs that are administered by the Association and funded by various
corporations and organizations. Many of the awards recognize teachers for their development and implementation of
unique science programs and curricula, while others honor individuals who show outstanding leadership and
dedication to the profession. Check them out at http://www.nsta.org/about/awards.aspx, along with all other details!
NOAA Teacher at Sea Program: Deadline September 30
th

NOAA Teacher at Sea Program: Deadline September 30
th

Have you ever thought about learning while at sea? The mission of NOAAs Teacher at Sea program is to provide
teachers a hands-on, research experience at sea, giving them unique insight into oceanographic, hydrographic, and
fisheries research by facilitating partnerships between educators and world-renowned NOAA scientists. Kindergarten
through college teachers, K12 administrators, and museum and aquarium educators board NOAA research and
survey ships to work under the tutelage of scientists and crew. Then, armed with new understanding and experience,
teachers bring this knowledge back to their classrooms. For more information go to http://teacheratsea.noaa.gov/
Captain Planet Foundation Grants - Deadline September 30
th

Captain Planet Foundation Grants: Deadline September 30
The Captain Planet Foundation provides grants to school and community groups to support hands-on environmental
projects for youth in grades K-12. The objective of the foundation is to encourage innovative programs that
empower youth to work individually and collectively to solve environmental problems in their neighborhoods and
communities. For more information go to: http://captainplanetfoundation.org/apply-for-grants/
Target Field Trip Grants Apply by September 30
th

Target will be awarding more than 5,000 grants of $700 each to schools for this school year. Teachers can use grants
to fund school field trips to connect their curricula to out-of-school experiences, including trips to museums, cultural
events, civic experiences and environmental sites. Please visit https://corporate.target.com/corporate-
responsibility/grants/field-trip-grants to apply by September 30, 2014.
Announcing the Fall 2014 Understanding Language MOOC Lineup at Stanford Register
by October 1
st

Welcome to the new school year! We are excited to be launching two massive open online courses (MOOCs) on
October 1, both designed to help teachers support students' language use and content learning within the context of
the new standards.

Our new MOOC, Supporting English Language Learners under New Standards, is a collaboration between
Understanding Language, Oregon State University, and the Oregon Department of Education. This eight-week course
will focus on a key practice within both the Common Core State Standards and new English Language Proficiency
Standards: argumentation. Participants will analyze language samples gathered from students to explore how they are
constructing claims supported by evidence and reasoning. Educators will be able to use their understanding of their
students language capacities to design curriculum aligned to the new standards. This course is open to teachers and
administrators in all states, and is especially relevant to educators in Oregon and other states in the ELPA21
consortium. Please follow the link below to register.
Register for Supporting English Language Learners

The CCC MOOCs are Back!



Building on the success of the Constructive Classroom Conversations MOOCs last year, we are offering two updated
versions of Constructive Classroom Conversations: Mastering Language for College and Career Readiness (one
for elementary and one for secondary teachers) starting on October 1.

In this four-session course (spanning 14 weeks), educators will work individually and within teams to collect samples
of student conversations, analyze language samples using the Conversation Analysis Tool (CAT), and plan instruction
to foster students conversation skills. Participants will join a growing online community to discuss, implement, and
reflect on constructive student-to-student conversations as powerful ways to develop language, thinking, and
understanding.

There is no cost to take the course and receive a Statement of Accomplishment from NovoEd. However, we are
excited to offer a paid option ($200) for participants to receive a Record of Completion with Narrative Evaluation
from the Stanford Graduate School of Education. With this option, participants will receive written feedback form
course instructors throughout the course and as a summative statement. They will also receive documentation that
they completed 30 hours of professional development. Many districts have offered continuing education credit for
this option, and past participants have found the detailed and explicit feedback very useful for their ongoing growth
and reflection.

Please follow the links below for more information or to register. We invite you to join this expanding network of
educators working together to foster language use in the classroom!
Register for Elementary CCC Course

Register for Secondary CCC Course

Toshiba America Foundation Grant Apply by October 1
st
(Grades K-5)
This grant contributes to science & math education by investing in teacher designed projects for students in Grades
K-5. Teachers are invited to apply for a $1,000 Toshiba America Foundation grant to help bring an innovative hands-
on project into their classrooms. Please visit http://www.toshiba.com/taf/k5.jsp and apply by October 1, 2014. Do you
have an innovative idea for improving math or science instruction in your classroom? Good luck!
Association of American Educators Classroom Grants Apply by October 1
st

These grants (average amount: $500) can be used for a variety of projects and materials, including but not limited to
books, software, calculators, math manipulatives, art supplies, audiovisual equipment, and lab materials. Classroom
grants are available to all educators who have not received a scholarship or grant from the association in the last 18
months. Application deadlines are October 1 and March 1. Click here for more information.
NEW!!! 2014 RI Manufacturing Educational Awareness Experience October 1
st

Please join in this exciting Manufacturing Week event for high school teachers, counselors, parents and students. Join
us for the 2014 RI Manufacturing Educational Awareness on Oct 1 at the Quidnessett Country Club from 3:30
7. Over 30 advanced manufacturers will be there to explain what advanced manufacturing is and to meet guidance
counselors, parents and students in all career pathways who might be inclined to pursue their career interest in the
manufacturing setting. A few educational institutions, including New England Tech, have been invited to showcase
themselves as well, to make sure that students know where they can turn for excellent training.
RI Manufacturers are hiring! Don't miss this chance to meet a variety of Rhode Island's advanced manufacturers, and
learn the high-paying, exciting careers that could be in your future.
Workforce Performance Solutions Training career specialists will be on hand to help map out student career options
in manufacturing. For information about the open house and the free WPS Career Match call: 401-232-0077 or email:
Jobs@WPSTraining.com.
The manufacturers will be offering a few sponsorships to robotics teams who are at the event and can demonstrate
enthusiasm, a strong program, and commitment. We cant guarantee each school that attends will receive a



sponsorship but they do have to be there for consideration. As noted on the flyer, if robotic teams want to attend
they can respond by email to Bots@WPSTraining.com or they can go to www.MfgDay.WPSTraining.com where they
can request more info.
Admission is FREE. Looking for more information call 401-232-0077

Sponsored by the RI Manufacturers Association, makeRI, and Workforce Performance Solutions
Verizon Innovate Learning Grant Program Apply by October 6
th

The Verizon Foundation is looking to partner with K-12 public schools to improve student engagement and
achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Through the Verizon Innovate Learning Grant
program, schools will be eligible for $20,000 grants to:
Engage students in STEM in new, innovative ways
Help teachers more effectively use technology
Create more personalized learning environments to help students succeed

Would your school love to launch a robotics program, or an app development class? Are you in need of a technology
coach, or training for a teacher to get the program off the ground? Would your teachers like to begin leveraging new
technology in the classroom, or learn how to better use the tools they have like smart-phones and tablets?

Who Should Apply? Public elementary, middle or high schools where 70 percent of the students qualify for free or
reduced lunch are eligible to apply for a chance to win a Verizon Innovate Learning Grant. This grant helps schools in
significantly underserved areas to expand or build new STEM initiatives that leverage technology for their students.

Who Is Eligible? Teachers and faculty members representing any public elementary, middle or high school in the
United States (50 states plus U.S. territories) in which at least 70% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch are
eligible to apply for a chance to win a Verizon Innovate Learning Grant. In addition, schools that have received grants
from the Verizon Foundation in 2013 and 2014 are not eligible.

How Can The Verizon Innovate Learning Grant Be Used?
The grant can be used to
Launch a new and/or support an existing program focused on:
App or video game development
Robotics
Design Thinking
Citizen Science
Computer science, coding or programming
Purchase new technology, equipment or materials for students or teachers, including:
3D printers
Mobile device accessories for academic use (e.g., probes, adaptive technologies)
Robotics kits
Support professional development for teachers on the integration of technology, including:
Securing a Technology Coach / Instructional Technology Coach
Professional Development on the use of technology, individualized learning environments, STEM
Curricula and resources to support new STEM subjects or projects

We encourage schools in your districts to submit an original idea to bring new learning to students in your
community. The deadline for applications is Monday, October 6, 2014. For more information on the Verizon Innovate
Learning Grant and to apply, go to: www.verizon.com/innovateaward.
NEW!!! 2015 Rhode Island Science Olympiad Fall Coaches Meeting October 6
th

The 2015 Rhode Island Science Olympiad is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2015, at Rhode Island College. The fall
meeting for coaches will take place on Monday, October 6, at 4 PM in Clarke Science 115 at Rhode Island College.
Information and a registration form are available at http://www.ric.edu/faculty/organic/ScienceOlympiad/




Registration is now open, using the form at the link above. If you intend to participate, please send us the form as
soon as possible. You do not need to wait for the payment to be sent in order to register, but payment must be
received by December 1 to retain your spot.

Coaches should plan to attend the October 6 meeting to pick up manuals for which they have registered, learn more
about plans for the event, or learn more about Science Olympiad in general. If the coach is unable to attend, please
send a representative (not a student).

If you have any questions, please call or send an email.

James G. Magyar
Physical Sciences Department
Rhode Island College
Jmagyar@ric.edu
456-9697
FAX: 456-8396
NEW!!! Project Lead The Way Conference, October 17
th
Register by October 9
th

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
Salisbury Laboratories
WPI Parking Garage at 151 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA
Friday, October 17, 2014
8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Conference Details, Registration & More Info on PLTW
http://www.wpi.edu/academics/stem/guidance.html
Online Registration Deadline -Thursday, October 9

Our conference will offer three options during each of six sessions. There will be sessions of interest to everyone,
whether you've been involved with PLTW for ten years, one year, or this is the first you've heard of the Project Lead
The Way K-12 STEM curriculum.

PLTW schools are required to send a minimum of one advisor/counselor to this annual conference. PLTW
recommends that schools send all of their advisors/counselors to at least one conference during their tenure with the
school.

Please share this invite with your PLTW Partnership Team and interested colleagues, especially those at your feeder
schools and in your guidance department, since we have very few counselor email addresses. Over 6,000 schools in
all 50 states offer PLTW programs, including 2 (Middletown and Ponagansett) schools in Rhode Island. PLTW teachers
are facilitators and their students apply STEM to define and solve open-ended problems in a real-world context. The
PLTW curriculum, combined with high-quality teacher professional development and an engaged network, helps
students develop the skills to succeed in our global economy. The PLTW curriculum is aligned with the Common Core
and Next Generation Science Standards.
Raytheon EiE Teacher Scholarships Applications For K-5 Teachers Apply by October
10
th

Want to bring Engineering is Elementarys award-winning curriculum to YOUR classroom AND attend an outstanding
PD workshop that prepares you to teach your best? Applications for the next round of Raytheon - EiE Teacher
Scholarships open THIS MONTH on August 27th.

Bookmark this link:
http://www.eie.org/eie-curriculum/scholarships-elementary-teachers



and be ready to submit your application.

Scholarship recipients travel to Boston to attend an EiE professional development workshop and receive a complete
set of classroom materials. The value of the scholarship is approximately $2,500.
Get Graduate Credit With Online Courses From the American Museum of Natural History:
Register by October 13
th
for Fall Session 2
Earn graduate credit and CEU credit while learning about the climate, space, and evolution. Get access to cutting-
edge research, world-class scientists, and powerful classroom resources with Seminars on Science, American Museum
of Natural History's online professional development program. Online courses include Climate Change; Earth: Inside
and Out; Space, Time, and Motion; The Brain; and many more. For more information, visit http://www.amnh.org/learn.

AMNH is looking for 100 science teachers to participate in a course on climate change. Receive a $500 stipend. Click
here for more information, or e-mail learn@amnh.org.

Fall Session 2: October 27December 7; Registration deadline: October 13
Get $50 off when you register by September 29. Sign up now. Registration: http://www.amnh.org/learn/Register;
Phone: 800-649-6715; e-mail: seminfo@amnh.org.
NEW!!! Global Exploration for Educators Organization Offers International Travel for
Educators Discounted Rate until October 13
th

Global Exploration for Educators Organization (GEEO) is a 501c3 non-profit organization that runs professional
development travel programs designed for teachers.

GEEO is offering the following travel programs for 2015: India/Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bali/Lombok, Italy, Eastern Europe,
Greece, Uzbekistan, Vietnam/Cambodia, Thailand/Laos, Belize/Guatemala, Morocco (Winter, Spring and Summer)
China, Eastern Turkey, Western Turkey, Zambia/Botswana/Namibia/South Africa, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Peruvian
Andes (Summer and Spring), Peruvian Amazon, and The Galapagos Islands. The registration deadline is June 1st, but
space is limited and many programs will be full well before the deadline. From now until October 13th, GEEO's
spring and summer programs will be discounted an additional 5%.

Educators have the option to earn graduate school credit and professional development credit while seeing the
world. The trips are 8 to 19 days in length and are designed and discounted to be interesting and affordable for
teachers. GEEO provides teachers educational materials and the structure to help them bring their experiences into
the classroom. The trips are open to all nationalities of K-12 and university educators and administrators, as well as
retired educators. Educators are also permitted to bring along a non-educator guest.

Detailed information about each trip, including itineraries, costs, travel dates, and more can be found
at www.geeo.org. GEEO can be reached 7 days a week, toll free at 1-877-600-0105 between 9AM-9PM EST
Lowe's Toolbox for Education Grants: Deadline October 15
th

Lowe's Toolbox for Education Grants: Deadline October 15
Increase parent involvement? Build stronger community spirit? Create a new school tradition? The ideas are endless.
Whatever goals and dreams you have for your school, Lowe's Toolbox for Education Grant Program can help fulfill
them with grants of $2,000 to $5,000. K-12 public schools as well as school parent-teacher groups are eligible.
Preference is given to funding requests that have a permanent impact such as facility enhancement (both indoor and
outdoor) and landscaping or clean-up projects. For more information go to: http://bit.ly/195qDKm
2015 Conrad Spirit of Innovation Challenge Teams Register by October 16
th

The Conrad spirit of innovation challenge (Conrad challenge) was founded by Nancy Conrad in honor of her late
husband, astronaut, innovator, and entrepreneur, c h a r l e s p e t e c o n r a d j r . The Conrad challenge is an
annual, multi-phase innovation and entrepreneurial competition that brings together a dynamic community of
innovators and entrepreneurs driving a collaborative movement to develop extraordinary and viable solutions to
benefit our world in one of four areas: aerospace & aviation, cyber technology & security, energy & environment, and
health & nutrition. For more information go to : http://www.conradchallenge.org/



NEW!!! Teaching NGSS in First Grade Is Topic of October 22
nd
Webinar
On October 22nd NSTA continues its series of webinars for K5 teachers focused on teaching the Next Generation
Science Standards (NGSS) in elementary school. The October 22
nd
webinar will focus on first grade. Join presenters
Carla Zembal-Saul, Mary Starr, and Kathy Renfrew as they review the general architecture of the NGSS and the specific
expectations for first grade students, then explore how to use the standards to plan curriculum and instruction. Join
one or all of these great learning experiences offered FREE for teachers. Find more information and/or register.

K5 teachers will not want to miss NSTA's upcoming series of web seminars focused on teaching the Next Generation
Science Standards (NGSS) in elementary school. Each month from September through February, NSTA will focus on a
particular grade level, kindergarten through 5th grade. Presenters will review the general architecture of the NGSS and
the specific expectations for each grade level then explore how to use the standards to plan curriculum and
instruction.
Teaching NGSS in Elementary SchoolFirst Grade, Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Teaching NGSS in Elementary SchoolSecond Grade, Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Teaching NGSS in Elementary SchoolThird Grade, Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Teaching NGSS in Elementary SchoolFourth Grade, Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Teaching NGSS in Elementary SchoolFifth Grade, Wednesday, February 18, 2015
The Better Together Summit Sponsored by the NE Environmental Educators Association
October 24
th
26
th

Pineland Farms, New Gloucester, Maine
October 24
th
- 26
th

The Summit features:
Over 45 workshops on topics such as collaborative strategies, community partnerships, engaging new
audiences, environmental psychology, climate change education, advocacy, organizational development, and
many more.
The Better Together Innovation Lab - an intensive, all day session for leaders, program innovators, and
everyone who wants to take part in developing new ways to strengthen our impact through collaborations,
alliances, and networks.
Keynotes and other plenary activities, as well as eye-opening and provocative ideas from all Summit
participants.
The Better Together Summit is for you if:
You want to learn how to create a better world through teamwork, partnerships, and collaboration
You want to hear ideas about how education and learning can help us reach a healthy, prosperous,
and sustainable future for all
You teach children, adults, and families about environmental knowledge and skills to help create and
sustain healthy communities and the environment
You use science to promote learning about the natural world, its systems, and all its inhabitants.
You support learning that enhances innovative thinking, academic achievement, and skill development
for the 21st century
You want to join an open dialogue with practitioners, innovators, administrators, researchers, and
funders in exploring collaborative strategies to increase environmental literacy and its impact on
attaining healthy, vibrant communities
Questions? Email: summit@neeea.org
www.neeea.org -- www.meeassociation.org
Every Day Capacity Building Grants: Deadline October 30
th

Every Day Grants from the National Environmental Education Foundation, with support from Toyota Motor Sales
USA, Inc., help strengthen nonprofit public lands support groups, enabling them to do more to connect their
communities to the land. Capacity Building Grants will be awarded to groups who make the best case for how the
funds will build their capacity to better serve the lands they love. http://publiclandseveryday.org/grants/capacity-
building-grants



Farmers Insurance Thanks a Million Teachers Grants Apply by October 31
st

Farmers Insurance Thanks A Million Teachers Grants of $2,500 are available to any educator who has been thanked on
ThankAMillionTeachers.com . The winners must use the money to purchase school supplies through
AdoptAClassroom.org or have the funds applied toward a professional certification through the National Board for
Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). Applications accepted through October 2014. For more information, click
https://www.thankamillionteachers.com/submit-a-proposal/ .
Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy Deadline is October 31
st

This Academy is a one-week, all-expenses-paid professional development program for teachers of Grades 3-5.
Participants will learn interactive ways to inspire their students in math and science. Now, you have the chance to let
your 3-5 grade teachers know how special they are by choosing them for a chance to go to a cool math and science
camp next summer. You can nominate any deserving teacher you know by visiting http://www.sendmyteacher.com/.
NEW!!! Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Video Contest Apply by October 31
st

Solve for Tomorrow is a video contest for public middle and high schools that awards over $2 million in technology,
plus other additional prizes, to winning schools throughout the United States.

From now until October 31st, we are accepting applications from teachers in all disciplines representing grades 6-12,
and theres no limit to the number of teachers that can enter from each school. Prizes will be awarded at each stage
of the competition, from the 255 State Finalists to the final Five National Winners. Entrants must answer a few, simple
questions about their school and STEM education at www.samsung.com/solve. One school per state will win a
technology kit to produce a video addressing the challenge, Show how STEM can be applied to help improve your
local community. National Winners will receive $140,000 in technology and prizes, and a trip to Washington, D.C. for
a celebratory event.

In appreciation for submitting your ideas to Solve for Tomorrow, we will be awarding the first 5,000 teachers who
apply a select self-paced teacher development course from PBS TeacherLine. At Samsung, we know how much
work educators put into motivating and leading their students and we want to say thank you.
In addition to the above mentioned, we will be awarding five teachers in every state including D.C., two Galaxy
tabs. There will also be one winner from each state that will receive $20,000 technology package for their school.
Fifteen National Finalists will receive a trip to attend our first ever pitch event, where they will present their video to a
panel of judges. Finally, the selected five National Winners will also be invited to attend a celebratory event in
Washington D.C. in addition to winning $120,000 technology package for their school.
Weve also added three additional chances to win with the Environmental Innovation Award, Math Makes-it-Work
Award and the Civic Engagement Award.
APPLY HERE: http://www.samsung.com/us/solvefortomorrow/contest/#apply

The full contest rules and additional information are posted at: www.samsung.com/solve. Youll also be able to see
examples of videos from previous winning schools.
James Bryant Conant Award in High School Chemistry Teaching Apply by November 1
st

The award recognizes, encourages, and stimulates outstanding teachers of high school chemistry in the United States,
its possessions or territories, at the national level. Any individual, except a member of the award selection committee
or currently enrolled student of the nominee, may submit one nomination or support form in any given year. The
nominee must be actively engaged in the teaching of chemistry in a high school (grades 912).
The award consists of $5,000, a certificate, and up to $2,500 for travel expenses to the meeting. A certificate will also
be provided to the recipient's institution for display. Click here for more information.
Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program Apply by November 5
th

Announcing the launch of the 2015-2016 Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching (DA) Program Online



Application for K-12 teachers!
Are you a U.S.:
Primary and/or secondary classroom teacher?
Guidance counselor?
Curriculum specialist?
Curriculum head?
Talented and Gifted coordinator?
Special Education coordinator?
Media specialist/librarian?
You may be eligible to participate in a unique international professional development opportunity for 3-6 months
through the Fulbright Program!

By conducting educational research abroad, U.S. teachers gain new skills, learn new instructional methods and
assessment methodologies and share best practices with international colleagues and students. Teachers also have
the opportunity to expand their understanding of other cultures and international education systems that will enrich
their U.S. schools and local communities with global perspectives.

Teachers may travel to: Botswana, Finland, India, Israel, Mexico, Palestinian Territories, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan
and Vietnam.
*Additional countries are still pending and will be added to the website in the coming weeks.
START YOUR APPLICATION TODAY: https://dafulbrightteachers.org/

Application deadline: November 5, 2014.
Eligibility Requirements: www.fulbrightteacherexchange.org.
Application Info: http://www.fulbrightteacherexchange.org/application-tp2.
This program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and is
administered by the Institute of International Education
N-Visioning a Brighter Future Grant Program Applications Due November 14
th

Sponsored by Westinghouse, the program awards grants to U.S. K12 schools that want their students to learn more
about science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) through a hands-on project. Three schools will be
awarded grants of $3,000$1,000 to complete their projects and $2,000 for the schools' science department needs
for any creative project dealing with STEM. Preference will go to projects that involve students directly, incorporate
community resources, or use interdisciplinary or team-teaching strategies. Click here for more information about the
program.

Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program Now Accepting Applications
for 2015-16 Fellowship Year Apply by November 20
th

The Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship (AEF) Program provides a unique opportunity for accomplished
K-12 educators in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to serve in the national
education arena. Fellows spend 11 months working in a Federal agency or U.S. Congressional office, bringing their
extensive classroom knowledge and experience to STEM education program and/or education policy efforts. Program
applications are due November 20, 2014, and must be submitted through an online application system.

To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens, be a current employed full-time in a U.S. public or private elementary
or secondary school or school district, and must have taught full-time in a public or private elementary or secondary
school for at least five of the last seven years in a STEM discipline.

Federal sponsors have included the Department of Energy (DOE), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
The DOE sponsors up to four placements in U.S. Congressional offices.

The AEF Program is managed by the DOE Office of Science, Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and



Scientists, in collaboration with the Triangle Coalition for STEM Education and the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and
Education.

Information about the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program, including eligibility requirements,
program benefits, application requirements, and access to the online application system can be found at
http://science.energy.gov/wdts/einstein/.

For any questions, please contact the AEF Program at sc.einstein@science.doe.gov.
U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science
PASCO STEM Educator Awards Apply by November 30
th

The PASCO STEM Educator awards, sponsored by PASCO scientific, in partnership with the National Science Teachers
Association, recognize excellence and innovation in the field of STEM education at middle school and high school
levels.

Eligibility: The applicant must be a 612 STEM educator. Individuals must have a minimum of 3 years teaching
experience in the STEM fields, who implement innovative inquiry-based, technology infused STEM programs. One
middle level and two high school level recipients will be awarded annually.
Award: A total of 3 awardees will be selected annually. Each awardee will receive up to $1000 to cover travel expenses
to attend the NSTA national conference and be part of a STEM share-a-thon workshop, a $500 monetary gift, and a
$5000 certificate for PASCO scientific products. The recipient of the award will be honored during the Awards Banquet
at the NSTA national conference.

To apply click on the link below:
http://www.nsta.org/docs/awards/STEMEducator.pdf
The deadline to apply is November 30, 2014.
Enter Now for a Chance to Win the 20142015 Shell Science Lab Challenge Apply by
December 19
th

Are you a science teacher succeeding in providing exemplary lab instruction with minimal equipment and resources?
The Shell Science Lab Challenge offers you a chance to compete to win a school science lab makeover, valued at
$20,000, by sharing your creative approach.

Middle and high school science teachers (grades 612) in the United States and Canada who have found innovative
ways to deliver quality lab experiences with limited school and laboratory resources are encouraged to apply! The
deadline for submissions is December 19, 2014.

All winners will receive science lab equipment, Shell cash grants, NSTA membership, and support to attend NSTA
Conferences on Science Education. The grand-prize winner and four national finalists will be honored at a special
banquet and ceremony at NSTA's National Conference on Science Education in Chicago in March 2015. For more
information about the Challenge or to download an application, click here.
NASA Goddard Spaceflight Center History of Winter Workshop Apply by December 31
st

Climbing an ice fall, drilling an ice core from a frozen lake or standing inside a pit to study layers of snow are not
usually part of the normal work week of a science teacher. But the annual History of Winter program, an initiative of
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, provides these and many other first-hand experiences for elementary and
secondary science teachers to familiarize themselves with the world of cryospheric science research. Guided by
professional glaciologists, the participants spend a week in February in Lake Placid, New York learning about common
field research techniques that are often used as ground validation for NASA satellite missions.

Registration for 2015 HOW Workshop Now Open.
The NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Office of Education and Cryospheric Sciences Laboratory invite you to
participate in the upcoming 2015 History of Winter professional development teacher-as-scientist workshop. This
week of training, to be held February 15-21, 2015 in Lake Placid, NY, places teachers in the role of scientists, working



side-by-side with professional scientists and technologists from NASA, the Cold Regions Research and Engineering
Laboratory, and partner universities.
Click here to learn more about the workshop and download the registration form. Interested
applicants should apply no later than December 31, 2014
Nominate an Educator for the National Teachers Hall of Fame Applications Due January
10, 2015
Located in Emporia, Kansas, the National Teachers Hall of Fame (NTHF) has brought attention to the profession
through an annual recognition program that honors five of the nation's most outstanding teachers. Nominees must
have a minimum of 20 years of full-time preK12 teaching experience.
Ceremonies take place in June of each year. All expenses are paid by the NTHF. Following the induction, members
continue in their current endeavors and serve students and the field of education by becoming lifelong ambassadors.
Being an ambassador of the NTHF includes participating in webinars, workshops, and in a speaker's bureau, as well as
representing and marketing the NTHF through public appearances and educational endeavors. For more information,
click here.
Vernier Engineering Contest Applications Due by January 15, 2015
Vernier Software & Technology is accepting applications for its Engineering Contest, which recognizes STEM
educators for introducing students to engineering concepts and practices through innovative uses of Vernier sensors.
Each award will consist of $1,000 in cash, $3,000 in Vernier technology, and $1,500 toward expenses to attend either
the 2015 NSTA STEM conference or the 2015 ASEE conference. Three awards will be given: one for middle school, one
for high school, and one for college.

Educators who apply must submit a video showcasing the use of Vernier sensors in a project or experiment. The
sensors may be used in conjunction with Vernier's Logger Pro software, NI LabVIEW software, LEGO NXT or EV3, VEX,
or any other system incorporating Vernier sensors. Applications will be judged on innovation, engineering objectives,
and the ease by which others can replicate the project. Middle school and high school applicants are asked to
specifically explain how the project addresses the engineering practices called for in the Next Generation Science
Standards. More information about the competition can be found here.

Student Competitions and Grant Opportunities
You Be The Chemist Challenge Grades 5-8
Get your students excited about chemistry with the You Be The Chemist Challengea free, national academic
competition for grade 5-8 students. The Challenge tests students knowledge of chemistry concepts, scientific
theories, and laboratory safety in an engaging, interactive format. Local and state competitions occur in the spring
and the top student from each state (together with one educator!) receives an expenses-paid trip to the national
competition in June. To find out how your school can get involved, go to http://www.chemed.org/ybtc/challenge/
please complete the Educator Inquiry form in the Im an educator section and e-mail it to challenge@chemed.org,
or call 703/ 527-6223
Siemens Student Competition in Math, Science & Technology Submissions due
September 30
th

Students can compete as individuals or as a member of a team. Individual projects promote independent research.
Team projects foster collaborative research efforts, as well as individual contributions to the cooperative endeavor.
Scholarships for winning projects range from $1,000 to $100,000. Submissions are due by September 30, 2014. Please
visit https://siemenscompetition.discoveryeducation.com/application/start for all details. Good luck!
Captain Planet Foundation Grants Apply By September 30
th

The Captain Planet Foundation funds and supports hands-on environmental projects for students. Its objective is to
encourage innovative programs that empower students around the world to work individually and collectively to
solve environmental problems in their local communities. Grant amounts range from $250 to $2,500. Deadlines for
submitting grant applications are September 30 and January 31. For more information, click here.
Earth Science Contests for Grades K-5 and Grade 6-9 Enter by October 17
th




The American Geosciences Institute is sponsoring a series of contests to celebrate Earth Science Week 2014. This
year's celebration takes place Oct. 12-18, 2014.
Photography Contest: Open to All Ages: http://www.earthsciweek.org/contests/photography/index.html.
Visual Arts Contest: Open to Students in Grades K-5:
http://www.earthsciweek.org/contests/visualarts/index.html
Essay Contest: Open to Students in Grades 6-9: http://www.earthsciweek.org/contests/essay/index.html
The entry deadline for all three contests is Oct. 17, 2014. Visit the contest websites for full details
eCYBERMISSION for Grades 6-9 Enter by December 17
th

Science teachers and the U.S. Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) are on a mission to increase student
interest in STEM education through the eCYBERMISSION program. Students in grades 6 - 9 are challenged to think
about real-world applications of STEM by working in teams to identify a problem in their community and using
scientific practices or the engineering design process to find a solution. Students can win on a state, regional, and
national level, with national winning teams receiving up to $9,000 in U.S. EE Savings Bonds, valued at maturity.
Students registered by November 5 will receive a FREE STEM Research Kit, which includes a notebook, flash drive, and
pencil. For more information, visit http://www.ecybermission.com/

Registration is now open for the 20142015 program year.

For more information, visit the competition website or contact eCYBERMISSION Mission Control at 1-866-GO-CYBER
(462-9237) or via email at missioncontrol@ecybermission.com. The deadline for registration is December 17, 2014.
NEW!!! Registration Now Open for Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Program Deadline for
projects s January 30
th

Year 23 of the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision programthe world's largest K12 student science competitionofficially
kicks off today with registration now open. The deadline for all projects is January 30, 2015.

ExploraVision, which is sponsored by Toshiba and administered by NSTA, was created to help motivate young
students to excel in science and technology. Working in teams of two to four to design innovative technologies that
could exist in 20 years, students have the opportunity to win a $10,000 U.S. Savings Bond (at maturity). Canadian
winners receive Canada bonds purchased for the equivalent issue price in Canadian dollars. The program is also
offering great prize packages for the teachers and the school with the largest number of qualified teams. New this
year, to celebrate ExploraVision's 23rd anniversary, the top 23 teachers who submit more than 23 eligible online
entries will win a Toshiba Tablet.

Teachers can learn more about the 20142015 competition by watching ExploraVision's new video, hosted by Bill Nye
the Science Guy, or visiting the competition website. Follow ExploraVision on Twitter at @ToshibaInnovate or like
ExploraVision on Facebook.
STEM Youth Rover Challenge sponsored by The Mars Society Deadline for Submission is
January 31
st

The Youth Rover Challenge is a multi-tier robotics education development program that is hosted, sponsored and
operated by The Mars Society. The program commenced on August 6th, 2013 to commemorate the one year
anniversary of the landing of NASAs Curiosity Rover. YRC is a STEM related educational effort that is designed for
schools and organizations with students or members in grades 5-12 to have the chance to build and compete at a
global level with a LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0 based robotic rover and competition arena intended to simulate the
surface of Mars. The sandbox where the robotic rover operates is intended to be replicated so participants can
operate the competition locally at your school, home or club. Winners of the best place times will be invited to one of
4 events held in each region.
The Rover built for the competition is pre-designed to accomplish specific experiments (tasks) similar to what Mars
Rovers accomplish on the surface of Mars and other harsh environments on remote places on Earth. The competition
is operated on-site at your self-built sandbox and the final operation of the field tasks are then videotaped and sent
to YRC for submission. Teams that have submitted videos that show the final operation of the rover completing the



tasks under a time limit are then ranked against other teams.
The challenge and its operation is designed to prepare students for the The Mars Society University Rover
Challenge that has operated successfully for the last 8 years directed by The Mars Society.
More information can be found at http://youthrover.com/ or by emailing Nicole Willett at Nicole.Willett@bcsav.net

Please note: attachments will not be sent. Most information will be posted online or included here to
reduce the size of this message.
Thank you.
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If you know of something that you feel is a quality resource, event, or opportunity (e.g., grant), please
send a newsletter-ready blurb to peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov containing the following information by
3:00pm on Thursday to be included in the Friday newsletter (subject to RIDE review and approval):
1. Type (e.g., grant, event, resource)
2. Name / Title of Event / Opportunity
3. Source or Event Sponsor
4. Web site, and/or contact name(s) and email address(es)
5. Description
6. Grade level(s) and/or intended audience
7. Deadline (if applicable) for time-sensitive submissions or event RSVPs

THIS NOTICE IS DISTRIBUTED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. R.I Department of Education does
not have any affiliation or responsibility to promote this information.

Peter J. McLaren
Science-Technology Specialist
Office of Instruction
Rhode Island Department of Education
255 Westminster Street
Providence, Rhode Island 02903
401-222-8454
peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov