RI Science Professional Development and Student Opportunity

Bulletin
May 8, 2015
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News

NGSS News

Reminders:
Massachusetts Society for Medical Research (MSMR) 24th
Annual Student Essay, Poster or Webpage Competition
Enter by May 9th (Grades 7-8 & Grades 9-12)
Sailing School Vessel Oliver Hazard Perry Moves to Fort
Adams for Public Tours May 9th 12th
Audubons Science Inquiry in your Schoolyard Teacher
Workshop - Saturday, May 9, 2015; 9:30 am 1:00 pm
(Grades 2 8)
The Future is Now: Building a STEAM Infrastructure in
Rhode Island, the RI STEM Centers annual Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Conference - Monday, May 11th
American Museum of Natural History Seminars in Science
Online Courses Register by May 11th
May 15th is Endangered Species Day
Brown University to Host "GirlsGetMath" Math Day-Camp For 20 Providence-Area High School
Girls Students Must Apply by May 15th
New In This Bulletin
Evolution 2015: A Workshop for Educators at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Apply by May 11th
NASA Webinar: Hayabusa 2 Asteroid Sample Return Mission to Asteroid 1999 JU3 Register by
May 11th
Computer Science Education Summit Register by Friday, May 29th
Educators Apply to the Rhode Island Teacher-At-Sea (RITAS) Program Applications Due
May 31st
Young Mind Awards Enter by May 31st
Taterthon 2015: First Annual Potato Growing Contest - Opportunity for RI Elementary Schools
Learning from Whale Snot: Beluga Whales and the Arctic A Presentation By Justin
Richard, PhD Candidate, University of Rhode Island June 7th
Students Sought for Summer 2015 Newport Boatbuilding Program July 6th August 14th
Job Opportunities:
FT Physics Position Lincoln School, Providence
Lincoln School in Providence RI seeks a high school Science teacher with at least 5 years of classroom experience to
teach Physics at an introductory and advanced level. Lincoln School follows a Physics first curricular progression.
Candidates should be prepared to support the 9th Grade Physics curriculum by teaching algebraic topics (specifically

trigonometric functions). Experience teaching AP Physics is also desired. Candidates may possibly be asked to teach
one section of general Chemistry.
Qualified candidates should have a passion for helping students to explore the physical sciences and for
contextualizing scientific theories through hands on learning activities that have real world applications. A
willingness to engage in a critical dialogue about instructional practice with peers and a desire to be involved in a
wide range of school activities in and outside of the classroom are also essential. Interested candidates should
submit a cover letter, resume, and statement of educational philosophy, to Kim Lawrence at
klawrence@lincolnschool.org

FT Physics Position LaSalle Academy, Providence, Rhode Island

La Salle Academy is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory school, sponsored by the Brothers of the Christian
Schools (the De La Salle Christian Brothers) offering a comprehensive curriculum. Founded in 1871 and located in the
heart of Providence, La Salle Academy serves a student body of 1467 students in grades 6 through 12. La Salle
Academy has as its mission the education of young men and women of diverse backgrounds, with a special concern
for the working class and the poor, in the tradition of St. John Baptist De La Salles ideals of faith, service, and
community.
The physics teacher will join a department that offers a full range of courses in science. The teacher will instruct five
high school classes for the year; Essential duties for faculty members at La Salle Academy include 1) classroom
instruction; 2) conferences with students, parents and colleagues; 3) active participation in the work of the
department on curriculum development and pedagogy.
The successful applicant will have at least a bachelors degree in Math. Candidates having academic preparation in or
experience teaching are preferred. Experience in teaching high school aged students is desired. Familiarity with
computers and an interest in technology integration in the science curriculum is essential. This is a full time position
for teaching college preparatory Physics. Candidates must have full knowledge of the scope and sequence of Algebra
II based Physics. Competence with a Smart Board, Vernier probe-ware and other technologies is important. Lab
work is an essential segment of the course. References should speak to the candidates ability to be a dynamic
educator with leadership potential; he/her eagerness and enthusiasm in working effectively with capable young
people at this level; and to his or her ability to work collaboratively with adult colleagues.
Qualified candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, resume and transcripts along with completed teacher
application forms found at:
https://www.lasalle-academy.org//ftpimages/156/download/lsa_employment_form_june10.pdf
to:
Donald Kavanagh, Principal
La Salle Academy
612 Academy Ave.
Providence, RI 02908
Or email: dcarosi@lasalle-academy.org
No phone inquiries, please.

Staff Needed for STEM Day Camps RI

STEM Day Camps is looking for staff for two one-week sessions in July, from the 6th through the 17th at Bryant
University in Smithfield.
STEM Day Camps RI is a co-ed Day Camp program for children in grades 3 through 5. STEM Day Camps is part of a
national pilot program being offered in 10 cities across the country this summer with a curriculum developed by Drs.
Trent Nichols and April McMillan from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Staff should be able to:

Serve both weeks 7/6 through 7/17, M-F, 8:30AM 4:30PM

Complete an application and background check

Attend a training session in June, Date TBD

Be comfortable working with children in grades 3 through 5

Have a passion for Science and hands-on learning

Teachers will receive compensation of $650 per week

Interested? Send a resume to Marc Cardin at marc.cardin@scouting.org or visit www.stemdaycamps.org

STEM News:
How should schools serve "accelerated" students? (National Public Radio)
There may be benefits to allowing advanced students to enter kindergarten early, to skip a grade or take a course
above their grade level, according to two recent reports. However, 20 states have policies that prohibit early
enrollment in kindergarten, one study found. View Full Article in: National Public Radio

Study: Top educators incorporate music, art in math, science (Quartz)

Current finalists and past winners of the U.S. Teacher of the Year Award use unique techniques to teach subjects
such as math and science, suggest researchers at Michigan State University who recently studied eight such
methods. Some incorporate rap music and drama to illustrate math concepts, while others have used art to help
students learn science. Quartz (5/6)

National Science Board Issues Report on the STEM-Capable Workforce

A new report from the National Science Board, the policymaking body for the National Science Foundation, provides
a "data-driven portrait" and " inclusive vision of a STEM-capable U.S. workforce." Revisiting the STEM Workforce
examines questions such as: Is there a glut or shortage of STEM workers? Are there skills mismatches? Are we
adequately preparing workers with STEM skills? Read the NSF article about the report and access the report here.

Report: Non-STEM Fields Increasingly Require STEM Skills

Its becoming increasingly difficult to define who is and is not included in Americas modern STEM workforce, simply
because technical proficiency is becoming mandatory in a diverse body of occupations. STEM worker shortages have
garnered plenty of headlines in recent years as an increasingly technical and automated job market demands more
out of its workers. Innovation has blurred the line between what does and does not constitute a STEM employee, and
its hard to measure a shortage without a precise definition. The reports take-home message is that STEM
knowledge and skills enable both individual opportunity and national competitiveness. Ensuring access to highquality education and training experiences for all students at all levels and for all workers at all career stages is
absolutely essential. Click here to learn more.

NGSS News:
Study: Few STEM Educators View Next Generation Science Standards Negatively (Education Week)
A recent survey of 5,000 K-12 science, technology, engineering, and math teachers and supervisors found that 80
percent of respondents were familiar with the Next Generation Science Standards, and of those, 60 percent held a
favorable view of them.
Just 6 percent of all respondents had a negative impression of the standards. (Others had a neutral impression.)
The 2015 Business Report: National Survey STEM Education, was conducted online in November and December
2014 by Interactive Educational Systems Design, Inc., along with STEM Market Impact, LLC, and MCH Strategic
Data. The study asked about schools' STEM courses and programs, teacher professional development, and the
availability of digital materials. Read more

Districts Out Ahead of States in Adopting Science Standards (Education Week)

While statewide adoptions of the Next Generation Science Standards continue to prove slow and steady, some
districts are jumping the gun on their states and starting to bring the new standards to classrooms as soon as
possible.
In many cases, science teachers themselves have led this charge.
"I think what you're seeing really is grassroots support among science teachers everywhere regardless of what's
happening at their state level," said David L. Evans, the executive director of the Arlington, Va.-based National
Science Teachers Association, which provided guidance during the standards' development. Read More

Teacher Resources:
Original Web Series from MIT Showcases Real Science and Real Scientists
MIT+K12 Videos is an educational outreach media program in the Office of Digital Learning. It produces original
digital media and live programming that seeks to spark curiosity and a love of learning, open the door to the science /
technology / engineering / math (STEM) world, and promote STEM-literacy among the general public. Read more.

BLOSSOMS Web Site Has Lesson on Probability

Lessons include introductory to more advanced approaches to the topic of probability. Read more.

NSTA Provides Links to Free Science Resources

Looking for teaching resources? Check out a page called "Freebies for Science Teachers" on the National Science
Teachers Association website. Updated periodically, this searchable "array of free resources for you and your
classroom" frequently features online links to publications, CD-ROMs, DVDs, videos, kits, and other materials for
Earth science education. For more, go to http://www.nsta.org/publications/freebies.aspx?lid=tnavhp

.Connect to the NSTA Learning Center - http://learningcenter.nsta.org/

At the NSTA Learning Center you can create your own personalized learning journey based on your own unique
learning needs and preferences where you can plan, track, and assess your progress over time. You can start at
"Explore Learning Resources and Opportunities" or by creating your game plan with the PD Plan and Portfolio tool.
Get started at the Learning Center at http://learningcenter.nsta.org/

Climate Change and the Anthropocene This past winter was extraordinary for many parts of the United States. Severe droughts, floods, frequent tornadoes,
polar vortices, strong monsoons, and record snowfalls are all hallmarks of extreme weather. Read this blog post from
science writer Becky Stewart for ideas on developing a STEM unit around climate change and the Anthropocene (the
designation of a new geologic era advocated for by some scientists to indicate the effect that human activities have
had on Earth's environment).

Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers

RI-DEM To Sponsor FREE Forest Pest Outreach and Survey Program for Grades 3-5, Middle, and High
Schools
The Forest Pest Outreach and Survey Program hopes to be an exciting addition to your spring science program! We
have multiple programs available for grades 3-5, middle school, and high school Biology classes. The Forest Pest
Outreach and Survey Program is part of Rhode Islands effort to keep invasive pests out of our state through
outreach and education. Earlier detection of these pests should lead to more effective control. We are extending our
effort to educate students about the importance of invasive pests and the current issues they present.
This is also a great program to highlight Earth Day, Arbor Day and the importance of trees.
Each program includes:

A 20 minute PowerPoint about invasive forest insects (each geared towards the grade level),
discussion and an optional walk around the school yard to survey trees

Materials for the classroom and students

Resources to integrate activities and lessons into your science curriculum (K-12)
This Program is a free public service and runs about an hour per class. Scheduling is limited.
To schedule a presentation please contact Cynthia Kwolek 401-949-1770 or Cynthia.Kwolek@dem.ri.gov

K-12 Teachers Wanted to Participate in Responding to Ebola Study From Horizon Research
Responding to Ebola
Although the spread of Ebola in the United States is unlikely, a quick review of recent news headlines suggests an
epidemic of misinformation. A substantial proportion of the population holds beliefs about Ebola that are not based
on scientific evidence. With over 100,000 schools, 3 million teachers (over 1 million of whom teach science), and 50
million students, the U.S. has a potentially effective and efficient means for conveying accurate information about
Ebolawhat the disease is, how it spreads, and how to prevent it from spreading. The concern over Ebola in the U.S.
will almost certainly pass, but similar events are inevitable. We have a narrow window of opportunity to study a
critically important phenomenonhow teachers, in particular science teachers, respond when urgent, sciencerelated issues emerge.
Study Participation
All K12 teachers of science are strongly encouraged to participate, whether they have taught about Ebola or
not. District and state supervisors of science are also strongly encouraged to participate. Participants will initially
complete a brief online registration. They will later be asked to complete a brief, online questionnaire addressing the
study research questions (see below). All respondents will be entered into a drawing for 1 of 10, $100 cash
prizes. Study registration will begin in April; survey administration will begin in May.
Focus of the Study
Horizon Research, Inc., in partnership with the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), the National Science
Education Leadership Association (NSELA), and the Council of State Science Supervisors (CSSS), is conducting the
study to address the following questions:
1. How do teachers adapt their teaching when science-related issues like Ebola emerge, whether the issue is
part of their curriculum or not?

2.
3.
4.

What factors shape teachers response when such issues emerge?

What do K12 science teachers know about Ebola?
Where do K12 science teachers get their information about Ebola, and what types of resources do they
find most useful?
Importance of the Responding to Ebola Study
Public response to Ebola in the U.S. has been vastly out of proportion to the risk it poses. Urgent science-related
issues like Ebola will continue to emerge, and teachers of science are uniquely positioned stop the spread of
misinformation. The Responding to Ebola study will generate important knowledge about how teachers respond in
such situations. This knowledge can change how a nation responds, mobilizing a force of over one million science
teachers to ensure that the response is based on scientific evidence.
To register for the Responding to Ebola study click here

TI Professional Development Sessions Westwood & Worcester, MA, Manchester, NH, & Higganum,
CT
Professional Development | PD in Your Area
Enhance teaching skills and gain expertise to increase student achievement
Up to 18 hours of hands-on, standards-aligned professional development
Learn from experienced T instructors with track records of classroom success, who will share insights, proven
strategies and new ideas for implementing TIs exam-accepted technology and standards-aligned activities in middle
grades and high school math and science.
Youll receive up to 18 hours of high-quality, hands-on professional development that will increase your
understanding and application of:

Instructional practices that promote students depth of knowledge and balance conceptual
understanding, procedural fluency and application.

Content knowledge that challenges math and science students to reason, justify and explain their
thinking.

TI technology to facilitate students progression from conceptual understanding to strategic, extended

thinking.
T Summer Workshops are provide an exceptional value, with TI technology and instructional materials included.
Workshop pricing is $350 with technology or $300 without. The T Northeast Professional Development Summit is
$250 with technology or $200 without. Team discounts and pre-service teacher pricing are also available.
*Workshop registration will close two weeks prior to the event.
Go to http://education.ti.com/en/us/professional-development/summer-workshops to register for the sessions

Northrop Grumman Launches Middle School Contest to Promote STEM Innovation Entry Window
from May 4th through June 12th
Northrop Grumman Foundation recently announced an online contest to encourage todays students to become
tomorrows innovators by creating classrooms and science labs that inspire. The Fab School Labs contest is open to
public middle schools and will make five grants of up to $100,000 available to five winning schools to fund a school
lab makeover. Beginning May 4 and continuing through June 12, 2015, teachers, principals, and school
administrators can enter an eligible school, where they can learn about the contest and submit their application,
along with photos and video to help tell their story. Semifinalist schools will be chosen, and their videos will receive
online votes of support to assist with the final selection process. The winning schools will team up with Fab School
Labs contest partner Flinn Scientific Inc. to design a state-of-the-art lab complete with all of the tools, resources, and
furnishings needed.

Ocean Sampling Day (OSD) and My Ocean Sampling Day (MyOSD) & Transatlantic Ocean Science
and Ocean Literacy Online Workshop - May 4 22, 2015
NOAAs Office of Ocean Exploration and Research announces new online professional development for educators,
scientists, policy makers and the interested public.
Hosted by
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Ocean Exploration and Research
In partnership with the European Union Micro B3 Project and the College of Exploration with support from
the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation
This offering is free for all participants and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In support of Ocean Sampling Day June 21, 2015 we are offering a series of online professional development
programs. Join scientists and citizen scientists from around the world who will sample the ocean using a variety of
methods. You can join this program by participating in MyOSD. Join the online workshop to learn more about the
Ocean Sampling Day project, and learn how to participate in the Citizen Science project MyOSD. Meet the scientists
involved in the project, and learn about the importance of marine microbial biodiversity, how scientists gather and
analyze river and ocean water samples, and how you as a citizen scientist can be a part of this years OSD event. Join
conversations with colleagues from around the world.
Keynote Speakers:
Dr. Anna Kopf
Ms. Julia Schnetzer
Dr. Renzo Kottman
Ocean Sampling Day, Jacobs University, Bremen, Germany
Dr. Kelly Goodwin
Dr. Maribeth Gidley
Dr. Christopher Sinigalliano
NOAA AOML Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, Miami, Florida, USA
Dr. Katja Lehmann
River Sampling Day, Oxford, England
Dr. Jennifer Tolman
Marine Microbial Genomics & Biogeochemistry, Dalhousie University, Canada
Dr. Linda Amarel Zettler
Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA

Participants will have the option to earn one graduate credit from Ashland University during the first 3 weeks of the
workshop.
To register, please visit: http://www.coexploration.org/oe2015/
Phase 2 of this online workshop (June17-June 26) is optional and will extend the conversation to document the
actions of citizen scientists participating in MyOSD and to continue to develop the network.

Sailing School Vessel Oliver Hazard Perry Moves to Fort Adams for Public Tours May 9th 12th
WHAT: SSV Oliver Hazard Perry Public Showing and Tours
th
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WHEN: Public Showing May 5 (afternoon) May 12
Public Tours:
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Saturday, May 9 Mon, May 11 (9 a.m. 5 p.m.)
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Tues, May 12 (9 a.m. 3 p.m.)
WHERE: Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI
Sailing School Vessel (SSV) Oliver Hazard Perry will make the first-ever visit to her permanent berth at Fort Adams
State Park in Newport. She is the first ocean-going full-rigged ship built in America in over a century, and she sails
as the Ocean States Official Sailing Education Vessel.
The impressive silhouette of SSV Oliver Hazard Perry includes a towering rig, the tallest part of which reaches 13
stories high; a total of 19 spars that have been turned from massive Douglas fir trees on the largest spar lathe in
North America; seven miles of rope and wire that have been made integral to the ships operation by tradesmen
trained in both modern and traditional rigging techniques; and 20 sails, both square and fore-and-aft that total
14,000 square feet.
As a Sailing School Vessel, the Tall Ship will carry not passengers but students of all ages participating in academic
and experiential learning programs aboard while engaging in all aspects of shipboard life.

Audubons Science Inquiry in your Schoolyard Teacher Workshop - Saturday, May 9, 2015; 9:30 am
1:00 pm (Grades 2 8)
Audubon Environmental Education Center, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol
FEE: $25.00/person
There are rich lessons waiting for your students just outside your school door. Let Audubon help you utilize the
schoolyard as an extension of your classroom. This workshop will give you the tools to confidently engage students
in outdoor science inquiry. By incorporating the schoolyard into your lesson, you add real world applications and help
students to develop scientific and critical thinking skills. Recommended for teachers in grades 2-8.
To register go to
http://asri.doubleknot.com/event/science-inquiry-in-your-schoolyard-teacher-workshop/1645358

The Future is Now: Building a STEAM Infrastructure in Rhode Island, the RI STEM Centers annual
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Conference - Monday, May 11, 2015
The Rhode Island STEM Center at Rhode Island College invites you to attend The Future is Now: Building a STEAM
Infrastructure in Rhode Island, the STEM Centers annual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
(STEM) Conference on Monday, May 11, 2015 at Rhode Island College in the Student Union Ballroom from 8:30am1:30pm. Lunch and a light breakfast will be provided.
This year we are continuing the momentum that has been building during the past year when a broad alliance of
nearly 200 participants from education, industry, and government representing PK-12, higher education, informal
education, business and industry, afterschool programs, community groups, non-profit organizations, funders, and
government agencies came together to form the Rhode Island STEAM Now Coalition. We will share our
progress including our proposal for the creation of a non-partisan state-level STEAM Council. This Governors
STEAM Advisory Council will include representatives from education, business, and government and will have the
leadership, support, coordination, and funding to develop a statewide STEAM Plan for Rhode Island.
Following last years success, we will again have a roll up your sleeves conference with attendees working in
breakout sessions to review our plans, share ideas and concerns, and make recommendations so we can build on the
feedback and input as we move forward.
Please click on the following link to register: https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/1829910/RI-STEM-Center
th

I hope you will be able to join us on May 11 . Questions may be sent to ristem@ric.edu.

American Museum of Natural History Seminars in Science Online Courses Register by May 11th
Sign up for an online course this summer with Seminars on Science, the American Museum of Natural History's online
professional learning program for educators. Get access to cutting-edge research, rich content, and powerful
classroom resources. Earn graduate credit and save $50 when you register with code SCIENCEMATTERS. Enroll now
at learn.amnh.org.
The six-week online courses co-taught by experienced scientists and educators include Earth: Inside and Out; Climate
Change; The Diversity of Fishes; Evolution; Genetics, Genomics, Genethics; The Solar System, Water and many more.
For more information about the program, check out Seminars on Science at http://www.amnh.org/learn/ or send us
an email at learn@amnh.org or call 800-649-6715.

NEW!!! Evolution 2015: A Workshop for Educators at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Apply by May 11th
Date: June 18-19, 2015 Location: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC This workshop is designed
for high school teachers, to provide an overview of key evolutionary concepts, mechanisms, and cutting-edge
research. Participants will be exposed to hands-on, inquiry-based activities, demonstrations, and discussions using
evolution as a unifying theme for the biological sciences. Lessons will be aligned to the NC Essential Standards for
Biology, the new AP Biology Frameworks and Next Generation Science Standards. This year's workshop is organized
jointly by the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent) and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
(NCMNS). Scientists and educators from both NESCent and NCMNS will present topics with an emphasis on current
research, practical applications and hands-on, engaging classroom activities that illustrate and enhance concepts.
Participants will receive continuing education units (CEUs), a $25/day stipend and a collection of resources and
materials for teaching evolution. Travel awards are available for participants from outside of the Triangle (Raleigh-

Durham-Chapel Hill) area. For more information and to apply, visit the NESCent website. The application deadline is
May 11, 2015. Questions? Please contact Dr. Jory Weintraub (jory@nescent.org ).

NEW!!! NASA Webinar: Hayabusa 2 Asteroid Sample Return Mission to Asteroid 1999 JU3 Register
by May 11th
The NASA ARES Expedition Earth and Beyond (EEAB) Program is planning to schedule its next Classroom
Connection Webinar. This event will feature an interactive presentation, led by NASA Scientist Paul Abell at the
NASA Johnson Space Center. It will engage your students (especially geared for grades 4-10) as they learn about an
amazing sample return mission to an asteroid. The presentation, and the mission itself will astound you and your
students! You wont want to miss this presentation! [Note: Other grade levels more than welcome to attend!]
The title of this event will be called, Hayabusa 2 Asteroid Sample Return Mission to Asteroid 1999 JU3 The
presentation will last approximately 40 minutes followed by an optional 10-20 minutes of Q & A from you/your
students.
To participate in this event, all you would need is 1) an internet connected computer and 2) a speaker phone to hear
the speaker. (Note: If you want to have sound through your computer, you can call in using Skye or Google Voice (if
you have account with either of these and know how to use them).
BEFORE we officially schedule the event, we would like to get your input on which dates/times would fit best with
your schedule. Based on our presenters availability and your input, we will host the event on one of the following
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days: May 19 or 20 . The event will be scheduled for 1 hour). To provide your input to help us decide on the final
scheduling of this event, do the following:
1. Go to this doodle link: http://doodle.com/g5qw92aw7s45n36p
2. Type in your name
3. Put a check mark next to all times you would be able to participate (Note: Times on the poll are listed as
Eastern Times so please convert based on your time zone. FYI - AZ time is currently -2 hours.)
4. Add a comment (located towards the bottom of the page) or give us your email address if you are not
already on our distribution list (i.e if you were forwarded this email).
5. Click Save
The availability of this presenter is very limited so we hope you and your students can be available when the event is
scheduled. I will aim to schedule this event according to the availability of the majority of those of you
interested. Please provide your feedback by Monday, May 11. If you are not interested, please disregard this
email. If you would like to be removed from this distribution list, please let me know.
AFTER we receive your feedback I will send out a follow-up email with the date(s) the event has been officially
scheduled. That follow-up email will include information on how to officially register. Registration will be available
at https://eeabstudents.wikispaces.com/Webinar+Registration
Thanks! I look forward to possibly connecting with you and your students!
Paige
Paige Valderrama Graff
ARES Education, Expedition Earth and Beyond Project Lead
Jacobs @ NASA Johnson Space Center
paige.v.graff@nasa.gov

May 15th is Endangered Species Day

May 15, 2015 is the 10th annual, national Endangered Species Day, offering teachers an ideal opportunity to
educate students about the importance of protecting threatened and endangered species. To find out more and
participate, go to http://www.endangered.org/campaigns/endangered-species-day/

Brown University to Host "GirlsGetMath" Math Day-Camp For 20 Providence-Area High School Girls
Students Must Apply by May 15th
Brown University's Institute for Computational and Experimental Research in Mathematics (ICERM) is hosting
"GirlsGetMath", a math day-camp for 20 Providence-area high school girls. The program will run August 17-21, 2015.

This five-day non-residential mathematics program is open girls who will have just completed either grade 9 or grade
10 by July 2015.
GirlsGetMath will encourage these young women to explore, and invite them to excel in, the mathematical sciences.
Accomplished professional women, enthusiastic about serving as career models as well as scientific mentors, will
lead the program. Potential topics include: cryptography, the mathematics of voting, image processing, prime
numbers and factoring, and fractals.
The goals of the program are:
to show high school girls that the study of mathematics can be exciting, beautiful, and useful
to build confidence in students' mathematical knowledge through engaging and expert mathematical
instruction
to introduce high school students to a variety of career opportunities in which sophisticated mathematical
ability plays a key role
to emphasize the strategic role mathematics plays for success in STEM careers
to provide the participants with a support group and expert mentors who are successful undergraduate,
graduate students and professionals from the STEM workforce
to have a positive influence on the way students view their mathematical interest and ability
Tuition is $100 (lunch included). Very generous financial aid is available.
The program website and application details can be found here:
http://icerm.brown.edu/girlsgetmath/2015/
APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 15, 2015
The selection committee will review all applications after the May 15th deadline. Accepted students without 100%
financial aid will receive information on how to pay the tuition in their acceptance letter.
If you have any questions, contact:
Ruth Crane, Assistant Director
ICERM at Brown University
(p) 401-863-6900 (email) Ruth_Crane@icerm.brown.edu

You Be The Chemist Essential Elements With the Chemical Educational Foundation Saturday, May
16th (Grades K-8)
Please join RI Science Teachers Association for You Be The Chemist Essential Elements with CEF at:
Classical High School, 770 Westminster Street, Providence
Date: 16 May 2015 8:00 AM until 04:00 PM
Check out this great NO COST event for K thru 8 teachers! Great for teachers who need to refresh chemistry content
knowledge as we implement NGSS. Also, an opportunity to see the 5E learning sequence.
You Be The Chemist Essential Elements is a professional development workshop created by the Chemical

Educational Foundation (CEF). Essential Elements is designed to assist K8 educators-our essential elements in
educationin teaching chemistry concepts through hands-on learning and connecting those concepts to students
everyday lives.
Essential Elements is based on the 5E constructivist learning cycle approach to teaching. This cycle allows students
to build their own understanding of new concepts from both old ideas and their own experiences. During an Essential
Elements workshop, an instructor will lead educators through a full 5E learning cycle, utilizing lessons from CEFs
YBTC Activity Guides. All educators will receive a flash drive containing all of CEFs Activity Guides. Also,
breakfast will be provided!
More information and online registration: Essential Elements with CEF

Hurricanes: Science and Society To Offer Hurricane Preparedness Webinar for 5th grade classes
Must Pre-Register by Tuesday, May 26th
The Hurricanes: Science and Society (HSS; www.hurricanescience.org) is excited to announce that it has again
partnered with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) to

offer hurricane preparedness webinars for 5th grade classes. We hope your 5th grade classes can join us for this
engaging and informative experience!
The purpose of the webinars is to raise awareness about hurricanes in advance of the 2015 North Atlantic
hurricane season. During each free, 1-hour webinar, students will hear from NHC scientists, as well as NOAA
AOC personnel that fly into hurricanes. A presentation on region-specific hurricane science and preparedness will be
given with interactive questions prompting student responses. Classroom questions will also be collected in advance
of the webinar; as many of these questions as possible will be answered by the hurricane scientists. Many videos,
visualizations, graphics, and other media will be included to engage students. Introductory materials and helpful
links will also be supplied to all participating educators.
Schools/classes wanting to participate MUST REGISTER in advance. To register, please go
to: www.hurricanescience.org/webinar
The webinars will be presented by region: Gulf Coast, Southeast, and Northeast Atlantic. Dates for each
webinar are as follows:
Northeast Coast: Tuesday, May 26, 2015, 10:00 am ET
Northeast Coast states include: NJ, PA, NY, CT, RI, MA, VT, NH, ME.
Problems/questions? Please contact Holly Morin (holly_morin@uri.edu; 401-874-6414)

RIDE Seeks Educators to Participate in NECAP Science Item Review and Bias and Sensitivity Committees
Applications Due May 29th
Each year the Office of Instruction, Assessment and Curriculum offers two opportunities for classroom educators to
participate in the development of the NECAP Science Test for grades 4, 8 and 11. The Item Review and Bias and
Sensitivity committees are essential to the work of creating a valid and reliable assessment. Many Rhode Island
educators have participated in these committees and have learned a lot not only from the process but also from
educators representing all three NECAP Science States (New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont). Below are
answers to common questions about participation:
Application: Educators must complete an application and meet minimum criteria in order to be considered for
participation on one of the committees. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Friday, May 29, 2015. Applications and
additional information can be found on the RIDE web page at:
http://www.ride.ri.gov/InstructionAssessment/Assessment/NECAPScienceAssessment.aspx#171129-test-development
NOTE: Even if you have applied and/or attended in the past you still must complete an application each year in order to
be considered for participation. Successful applicants will be notified by Friday, June 12, 2015
.
Location: The Item Review Committee (IRC) and Bias & Sensitivity Review Committee meetings will be held at the
th
th
Stoweflake Resort and Spa in Stowe, Vermont from August 6 & 7 , 2015. Hotel accommodations will be provided
for each participant. Additional details such as directions to the hotel and meeting times/places will be provided at a
later date for members of each committee.
Stipend: Committee participants are paid $100 per day (IRC meets two days Bias and Sensitivity meets one day)
Transportation: Once participants have been selected, it is their responsibility to arrange for transportation to and
from the meetings of the committee to which theyve been assigned.
Mileage: Participants who drive their own cars are reimbursed for mileage and tolls to and from the meetings
Meals: Participants are reimbursed $25.00/night for dinner. Breakfasts and lunches are provided as needed. Forms for
meal reimbursements are handed out at each meeting.
Committee Assignment: Because the IRC and Bias Committees meet concurrently, selected members can only serve
on one or the other. You may, however, submit your application to one or both committees for consideration.
If you have any questions about these sessions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Peter McLaren at
peter.mclaren@ride.ri.gov or by phone at 222-8454.

NEW!!! Computer Science Education Summit Register by Friday, May 29th

The Computer Science Teachers Association of RI & the Mathematics and Computer Science Department of Rhode
Island College are sponsoring the first annual Computer Science Education Summit
th

When: Thursday, June 4 : 4 8 pm

Where: Forman Center, Rhode Island College, Providence
th
Register at: http://tinyurl.com/CSSummit2015 by Friday, May 29
4:00 4:15: Registration
4:15 5:00: Breakout Session I
5:15 6:00: Breakout Session II
6:00 6:30: Break for Supper-finger foods
6:30 8:00: Keynote Speaker: Kelly Powers
Kelly Powers, who is Director of Computer Science Teacher Leadership at Education Development Center,
Waltham, MA , works with MassCAN (Massachusetts Computing Attainment Network), to bring rigorous Computer
Science curriculum to the classroom and districts. Through her work, teachers receive high quality professional
development so that they can teach Computer Science in their school; she is especially concerned that all students,
including females and under-represented minorities, are provided with the opportunity to learn computer science.
For directions and a map, please see https://www.ric.edu/campusmap/
For more information, please contact: Dr. Ann Moskol (amoskol@ric.edu), 456-9761

NEW!!! Taterthon 2015: First Annual Potato Growing Contest - Opportunity for RI Elementary
Schools
The students in the Scituate High School National Energy Education Development (NEED) Club are doing a new
project this year called Taterthon, our first annual potato growing contest. Presently the Scituate HS NEED Club is
working with classes from a number of RI elementary schools from four districts. The school whose students
produce the most potatoes as documented in their scientific notebooks will receive the grand prize, which will allow
the school to make improvements to their school garden or other outdoor learning spaces. If you are a teacher or a
principal in a RI elementary school (K-5) and would like to participate, please contact SHS Teacher Coordinator
Shannon Donovan by email at sciencepup@hotmail.com with your name, school address, grade level(s), and the
number of students who will be participating. The SHS NEED Club will deliver the participation kits (seed potato,
science notebook) to your school..
For more information go to http://www.taterthon.org/ to learn more.

Society of Wetland Scientists (SWS) 2015 Annual Meeting: May 31- June 4
We wanted to let you and your community of students and teachers know about this exciting opportunity for high
school students and teachers to participate in the Society of Wetland Scientists (SWS) 2015 Annual Meeting. Please
help spread the word!
Our own New England Chapter is hosting the SWS Annual Meeting at the RI Convention Center in Providence,
Rhode Island from May 31 June 4, 2015. The meeting is themed Changing Climate. Changing Wetlands.
We have a new, at cost, registration rate for high school teachers and students. High school teachers and students
will be able to register (on the meeting website) for a day pass to the SWS 2015 Annual Meeting for $40. Please note
that this discounted rate does not apply to the field trips due to limited availability of attendance and costs
associated with transportation and other related expenses.
The meeting website is: http://swsannualmeeting.org/
We hope to see you there!! This is a unique opportunity for our science community! For more information contact,
Antonio F. Federici, by phone at (860) 287-6725

NEW!!! Educators Apply to the Rhode Island Teacher-At-Sea (RITAS) Program Applications Due
May 31st
The University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography announces a rare opportunity for Rhode Island
educators to go to sea on the research vessel Endeavor.

Through funding provided by the Rhode Island legislature, the Rhode Island Teacher-At-Sea (RITAS) Program is
designed to establish sustainable partnerships between ocean scientists, researchers and educators, by arranging for
educators to partner with a research team aboard the research vessel Endeavor.
Educators will live and work aboard the Endeavor for three days from August 17 to 19, 2015. Under the instruction of
Graduate School of Oceanography researchers, the educators learn various research techniques for studying the
biology, physics, chemistry, and geology of the sea. The research cruise will depart from and return to Narragansett
RI.
The program is open to Rhode Island residents who teach in Rhode Island. Educators of all disciplines, both formal
and informal, are welcome; participants do not have to be science teachers.
URI Press release: http://www.uri.edu/news/releases/?id=7454
The deadline for applications is May 31, 2015. Further program details and an application form can be accessed at:
http://omp.gso.uri.edu/ompweb/content/rhode-island-teacher-at-sea

Teachers on the Estuary (TOTE) and Wonders of Wetlands (WOW!) Project WET Professional
Development Opportunity: July 10-12, 2015 Apply by June 1st
Participate in a combination of three workshops over three days.
th
When:
July 10 12
Where:
Narragansett Bay Research Reserve on Prudence Island, RI
Who:
Ideal for middle and high school teachers; others are welcome to register, including informal
educators.
Hosted by:
Educators from the Narragansett Bay Research Reserve and RIDEM Division of Fish and Wildlifes
Aquatics Resource Education program
Receive:
Project WET and WOW curriculum and NOAA educational materials
Learn:
How to integrate estuary science, climate change, and water resources into your classroom.
Free:
lodging, meals, and workshop materials.
st
Space is limited; email Maureen Dewire at Maureen@nbnerr.org to register by June 1 or visit
www.nbnerr.org/tote.htm for more details.

NEW!!! Taterthon 2015: First Annual Potato Growing Contest - Opportunity for RI Elementary
Schools
The students in the Scituate High School National Energy Education Development (NEED) Club are doing a new
project this year called Taterthon, our first annual potato growing contest. Presently the Scituate HS NEED Club is
working with classes from a number of RI elementary schools in four districts. The school whose students produce
the most potatoes as documented in their scientific notebooks will receive the grand prize, which will allow the
school to make improvements to their school garden or other outdoor learning spaces. If you are a teacher or a
principal in a RI elementary school (K-5) and would like to participate, please contact SHS Teacher Coordinator
Shannon Donovan by email at sciencepup@hotmail.com with your name, school address, grade level(s), and the
number of students who will be participating. The SHS NEED Club will deliver the participation kits (seed potato,
science notebook) to your school..
For more information go to http://www.taterthon.org/ to learn more.

NEW!!! Learning from Whale Snot: Beluga Whales and the Arctic A Presentation By Justin
Richard, PhD Candidate, University of Rhode Island June 4th
Southeastern New England Marine Educators Association (SENEME) Invites you to attend . . .

Learning from Whale Snot: Beluga Whales and the Arctic

Justin Richard, PhD Candidate, University of Rhode Island
Presentation followed by a Meet & Greet & refreshments!
Thursday, June 4, 7-8PM
Mystic Aquarium, Mystic, CT
Beluga whales live in one of the harshest environments on the planet-the Arctic. Faced with near freezing water
temperatures, hazardous sea ice, and long periods of darkness, these animals not only survive, but thrive; belugas
are the most numerous and widespread Arctic whale. One particularly important adaptation is their reproductive
seasonality, ensuring that calves are born at the most favorable time of year. Successful reproduction is intimately

tied to the growth of beluga populations, making an understanding of this aspect of beluga natural history critical to
the conservation of this species in a changing Arctic. This lecture will explore the ways scientists can monitor beluga
reproduction, including the ability to measure hormones in beluga "snot," and how their behavior and physiological
adaptations ensure success in an Arctic habitat. Participants will be able to take home a "beluga snot" hormone data
set to further explore these themes with their students.
REGISTER TODAY! (Visit seneme.org- Events - SENEME 2015 Lecture Series) $5.00 for students & members
$10.00 non-members
SAVE THE DATE! or REGISTER NOW for Sea-level Rise: Past, Present, and Future
Simon Engelhart, Assistant Professor, University of Rhode Island, Department of Geosciences. Thursday,
October 15, 7-8PM, URI, Narragansett Bay Campus
Learn how current research focused on how geological data can help inform our knowledge of coastal hazards. See
high-resolution reconstructions of sea-level rise during the past 2000 years along the U.S. east coast are used to.
Hear how the use of microfossils can improve our understanding of earthquake and tsunami risks along subduction
zone coastlines in northern California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska.

Educators Invited to First Global Ocean Science Education Workshop at URI-GSO Register by June
5th
We invite you to participate in the first Global Ocean Science Education Workshop, being held June 26 and 27 at the
University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography. Workshop goals include identifying opportunities and
setting a course for international collaborations and establishing a foundation for an international ocean science
education network.
Panelists and plenary speakers from over 15 nations will address international and national ocean science research
and education priorities. Other workshop topics include leveraging ocean research and advanced communication
technologies for ocean science education. The focus is on the ocean science education pipeline from elementary and
secondary education, through undergraduate and graduate education, to public education.
Workshop registration is now open and can be found here (www.regonline.com/gose). In addition, information on
accommodations and the preliminary agenda can be found on the
workshop website (http://www.coexploration.org/gose/). Registration will close on Friday, June 5, and a hotel block
of 50 rooms has been reserved at a reasonable rate. Please be sure to register early if you will need hotel
accommodations.

NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer Education Materials Collection Professional Development For Educators
Grades 5-12 Saturday, June 27th (Register by June 12th)
Are you attending the National Marine Educators Conference June 28 July 2, 2015? As a precursor to the
conference NOAAs Office of Ocean Exploration and Research is offering the following half day professional
development opportunity.
NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer Education Materials Collection
Half Day Professional Development for Educators of Grades 5-12
Saturday, June 27, 2015
1:00 - 5:00 pm
Newport Marriott Hotel
Newport, Rhode Island
All life on Earth relies on the oceanyet, the ocean is 95 percent unexplored, unknown and unseen by human eyes
Join NOAAs Office of Ocean Exploration and Research as you are introduced to the Okeanos Explorer Education
Materials Collection: Volume 1: Why Do We Explore? and Volume 2: How Do We Explore? As a precursor to the
National Marine Educators Conference, this workshop will highlight material from both volumes as a condensed
version of full day professional development workshops that are offered nationwide. Come learn how to use
standards-based lessons and online resources that guide classroom discovery into the innovative exploration
strategies, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and other ocean tools used onboard the NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer.
Topics include modern reasons for ocean exploration, underwater mapping, exploring the water column, deep ocean
exploration with remotely operated vehicles, and telepresence technology that enables participation from shore
during ocean exploration missions.

Registration is required and space is limited. Participants will receive the Okeanos Explorer Education Materials
Collection, Volume 1: Why Do We Explore? and Volume 2: How Do We Explore?, other education resources, and a
NOAA Ocean Exploration Certificate of Participation.
Registration Deadline is June 12, 2015
To register, please contact: Susan Haynes, 401-289-2810, susan.haynes@noaa.gov

2015 Annual Conference of the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) in Newport, RI: June
29 July 2, 2015 REGISTRATION IS OPEN Register by June 24th
Mr. Potato Head, coffee milk, Del's frozen lemonade, johnnycakes, pizza strips, and even Pell Grants are rooted in
Rhode Island. So is this year's National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) Conference. Won't you join other
formal and informal educators from across the U.S. and around the world in Newport, RI, June 28 - July 2, 2014, to
explore our world of water?
SouthEastern New England Marine Educators (SENEME; http://seneme.org) is proud to be the host of the 2015
Annual Conference of the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA). The conference will be held at the
Newport Marriott, located in the center of downtown, historic, Newport, Rhode Island.
REGISTER NOW for the 2015 NMEA Conference:
http://www.marine-ed.org/general/custom.asp?NMEA_2015_Reg
Online registration will be available through June 24, 2015.
Early Bird Registration will be available until May 22, 2015.
Registration Rates:
NMEA Member: $395 (Early Bird rate), $445 (regular rate, after May 22)
NMEA Non-member: $445 (Early Bird rate), $485 (regular, rate after May 22)
Single day registration: $125
This event will be filled with a variety of sessions and plenaries led by dynamic speakers versed in the latest trends in
marine science and education (including STEM education and the Next Generation Science Standards). Unique,
regional field trips will include explorations of local flora and fauna, tours of historic mansions, learning about the
sailing tradition of Newport, and much more!
The NMEA Annual Conference is attended by formal and informal educators, scientists, and students from across
the U.S. and around the globe. Conference participants include those from public and private institutions,
aquariums, for profit and nonprofit organizations, as well as local and federal government agencies. Attendees can
choose the days they would like to attend participate in the conference for one day to concentrate on one session
track, or attend the entire event and absorb the full scope of information presented during conference lectures,
workshops, and other experiential learning opportunities in the Newport area.
Evening event at the Mystic Aquarium (Wednesday, July 1) and all field trips (Sunday, June 28 and Thursday, July 2)
are an additional cost. These optional events can be selected during the online registration process.
Make your hotel reservations here: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pvdlw-newport-marriott/
**The deadline for all lodging reservations associated with NMEA 2015 is June 7, 2015**
The conference will be held at the Newport Marriott, situated in the heart of historic Newport, Rhode Island. The
hotel offers first-class accommodations with a luxury spa, an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, on-site
restaurant, and convenient harbor side location close to legendary attractions such as the Cliff Walk, Newport
Mansions, Castle Hill Lighthouse, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame. We encourage conference participants
to stay at our designated host hotel.
For more information about the conference, and how to sign-up to volunteer, visit:
http://www.marine-ed.org/general/custom.asp?page=NMEA_2015

Call for Presenters Massachusetts Association of Science Teachers (MAST) Conference Applications Due June
30th

MAST is looking for presenter applications for the fall conference November 5 - 6 , 2015 at the Holiday Inn
Boxborough. Please consider presenting a session and share this with your networks.
Conference Theme:
Enlightening Students, Empowering Teachers on 20 December 2013, the UN General Assembly 68th Session
proclaimed 2015 as the International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies (IYL 2015). In proclaiming an
International Year focusing on the topic of light science and its applications, the UN has recognized the importance
of raising global awareness about how light-based technologies promote sustainable development and provide
solutions to global challenges in energy, education, agriculture and health. Light plays a vital role in our daily lives
and is an imperative cross-cutting discipline of science in the 21st century.
Conference Themes:

Identifying innovative techniques that you are using to address the new standards

Light in Nature

Engaging diverse learners

Preparing your students for an evolving job market

Building Partnerships with informal education institutions

Sustaining STEM through Career and Technical Education Programs

Integrating technology into your classroom and lab

Incorporating engineering into the science classroom

Applications to present:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1XQy6sUrLqYcAWby1cE7BqIXNf1IjnmjOVsppbPj9lQY/viewform
Important Dates
Presenter Applications opens - April 14, 2015
Presenter Applications DUE- June 30, 2015
Conference registration opens - June 1, 2015
Conference - November 5-6, 2015 MAST is now on Twitter!
Connect with us @MAscienceteach to stay in touch with upcoming events, awards and grant opportunities!
We will be using #MAST15 for all 2015 conference-related news and updates!

Chemistry of Smell Institute at the Boston Museum of Science - July 29 -30, 2015
Join Museum educators for a two-day institute exploring the latest research related to our sense of smell and the
amazing ways it can help inform our understanding of the world around us.
During this workshop, we'll explore the interplay between chemistry and biology in our olfactory system: how
molecular properties of chemicals determine what we smell, and how odorants play a pivotal role in navigation at the
cellular and molecular levels. Experience several different activities at our new interactive Smell Bar to learn about
odorants and ourselves. Finally, we'll delve into current research that continues to refine our understanding of the
chemistry and biology of smell and holds important implications for our daily lives.
For more information about this workshop, and to apply, please visit http://www.mos.org/professionaldevelopment/chemistry-of-smell-two-day-institute

Student Competitions and Grant Opportunities

Massachusetts Society for Medical Research (MSMR) 24th Annual Student Essay,
Poster or Webpage Competition Enter by May 9th (Grades 7-8 & Grades 9-12)
Level 1 Competition Grades 7-8
Level 2 Competition Grades 9-12
Awards in Each Level

1st Place - $500

2nd Place - $250

3rd Place - $100

Honorable Mention - Certificate of Merit

Classroom Education Grants for the Teachers or Mentors/Advisors of the winning students

1st Place - $100


2nd Place - $50

3rd Place - $25

All winning and honorable mention students and their parents and teacher are invited to the MSMR Annual Meeting
in late June, where the winning entries will be highlighted.
This Year's Competition Challenge - "That's News!"
The competition reflects MSMRs popular What A Year! science discoverywebsite (www. whatayear.org), that
turns research advances into educational opportunities. Students will create and submit a Poster, Essay or
Webpage exploring a recent research advance at a New England research institution as if you were theWhat A
Year! reporter. Go to the What A Year! website (www.whatayear.org) and read some of the stories in order to
understand the goal of What A Year! to introduce breakthrough science to students.
To Enter
1. Find a research discovery/breakthrough from scientists during 2013 or 2014.
2. Then tell the story of the discovery via an Essay, Poster or Webpage, using a balance of text and graphics,
being sure to include all the required elements (see details in the Student Packet, below). Your specific
audience is teenage science students, so your presentation should be appropriate to them.
There are ideas in the Student Packet on how to find a good story.Topics should not be ones that are already
reported the WHAT A YEAR! website: you should uncover a topic of special interest to you -- an area of biology, a
disease or condition, a specific researcher or research institution, for example.
The Student Packet and Entry Form below will help you find discoveries, plan, create and submit your entry. Please
read them and follow their guidance carefully.
We accept entries only in electronic format. Essays and Posters are submitted as e-mail attachments in standalone
(not web-based) PDF format; webpages will be submitted as links in your submission e-mail. Please read through the
entire. Student Packet for detailed information. Essays and Posters must be individual work; Websites may be
created by individuals or teams of two.
Note: your entry itself must be completely anonymous ... all identifying information must be contained only in the
associated e-mail and Entry Form.

2015 Google Science Fair Submit by May 19th

Science is about observing and experimenting. It's about exploring unanswered questions, solving problems through
curiosity, learning as you go and always trying again. That's the spirit behind the fifth annual Google Science Fair.
Together with LEGO Education, National Geographic, Scientific American, and Virgin Galactic, they are calling on all
young researchers, explorers, builders, technologists, and inventors to try something ambitious. From now through
May 18, students around the world ages 1318 can submit projects online across all scientific fields, from biology to
computer science to anthropology and everything in between. Prizes include $100,000 in scholarships and classroom
grants from Scientific American and Google, a National Geographic Expedition to the Galapagos, an opportunity to
visit LEGO designers at their Denmark headquarters, and the chance to tour Virgin Galactic's new spaceship at their
Mojave Air and Spaceport. This year they're also introducing an award to recognize an Inspiring Educator, as well as a
Community Impact Award honoring a project that addresses an environmental or health challenge.

NEW!!! Young Mind Awards Enter by May 31st

The Young Mind Awards will recognize outstanding achievements and efforts of students who design and build a
project in one of five innovation categories: electronic, wireless, medical, electromechanical/mechanical, and
research and development. A panel of judges comprised of industry-recognized professionals will review the
submitted designs based on four principles: creativity, comprehensiveness, clarity of expression, and demonstration.
Advantage Business Media will be awarding winning students and teams up to $5,000, while teachers, professors,
and schools will receive up to $1,000. Click here to enter before the May 31, 2015 deadline.

Students Encouraged to Enter and Compete in the Rhode Island SANS Cyber Aces State
Championship
SANS Cyber Aces Online makes available, free and online, selected courses from the professional development
curriculum offered by The SANS Institute, the global leader in cyber security training. SANS goal in making these
courses available as open courseware is to help grow the talent pool and accelerate the rate at which skilled cyber
professionals can enter the information security industry filling mission critical jobs currently going unfilled.
The course covers the three foundation areas of information security.

Networking

Operating Systems

Systems Administration

Top performers in the SANS Cyber Aces Online will be invited to an online Rhode Island SANS Cyber Aces State
Championship on June 27, 2015, to compete for top honors and scholarships. Qualified participants will compete in
SANS NetWars. SANS NetWars is a suite of hands-on, interactive learning scenarios that enable information security
professionals to develop and master the real-world, in-depth skills they need to excel in their field.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Take the three free tutorial modules and online quizzes in SANS Cyber Aces Online before June 4, 2015, for an
opportunity to be invited to the online championship.
QUALIFYING ENDS: June 4, 2015
AWARDS: New England Institute of Technology will award scholarships to the top three finalists.
The Rhode Island SANS Cyber Aces State Championship is hosted in partnership with the New England Institute of
Technology.
Visit www.cyberaces.org for more information.

Students Sought for Summer 2015 Newport Boatbuilding Program July 6th August 14th
The Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA) in partnership with Newport Area Career and Tech High School
(NACTC) hosts a Marine Trades Summer Work and Learn program incorporating work experiences, career
exploration, leadership development, adult mentoring, basic skills development and job readiness services to 12
youth. This program serves youth between 14-16 years old who have expressed an interest in the marine trades
industry. For the past several years, the industry has offered successful Marine Trades summer programming in the
East Bay to over 100 youth. This project helps youth gain basic, academic and employment skills, earn their diploma
and gain paid work experience. Participants get a certificate of completion from RIMTA for their training.
Participants also earn $180 Visa/MasterCard gift card every 2 weeks. The program is 6 weeks, Monday through
Thursday, 8am-1pm and will be located at Newport Area Career and Tech High School.
Students must be:

ages 14-16

resident of Newport, Jamestown, Middletown, Portsmouth, or Tiverton

available all 6 weeks

If you know of anyone who might be interested they can apply through the link below or complete the attached
application. Also attached is the program flyer.
https://secure.jotform.us/jen7670/summer_boatbuilding_application
Feel free to call or email me with any questions.
Jen Cornwell, Director of Programs, RIMTA
401-241-1588 cell
401-396-9619 office
99 Poppasquash Rd
Bristol RI 02809

--------------------------------------------------

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.