Angela Gospodarek, a science teacher at Gorham Middle School (GMS), is being recognized this week as a Five-Year Member of the National STEM Scholar Program, a prestigious professional development program designed specifically for middle school science teachers inspiring the next generation of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) pioneers.
In 2017, Gospodarek was one of only 10 teachers selected nationwide for program participation. All National STEM Scholars participate in a week of advanced STEM training and national networking — and are provided with funding to implement a “big idea” Challenge Project at home and a Chromebook to facilitate ongoing collaboration. They also receive sponsored attendance at the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) National Conference the following spring.
The National STEM Scholar Program hosted its first National STEM Scholar reunion from March 30 to April 3 at the 2022 NSTA National Conference in Houston, a premier professional development opportunity for science teachers worldwide.
Gospodarek re-engaged with her class, met another 50 National STEM Scholars representing middle schools from across the U.S. and interacted with science teachers from all over the world for idea exchange and potential collaboration.
She was presented with a National STEM Scholar Five-Year Member certificate and invited to film a description of her Challenge Project for inclusion in the digital STEM Scholar Library, www.stemscholarlibrary.org, a new online digital resource available free of charge for teachers, students and parents in virtual and traditional classrooms worldwide.
Dr. Paula Grisanti, CEO of the National Stem Cell Foundation, said, “Educators like Angela make a difference in the academic choices students make that will open or close the door to STEM careers. Studies show that middle school students who become excited about science are the ones who will pursue STEM courses in high school and major in them at the technical and college level. Unfortunately, nearly 50%
of 8th graders in America lose interest in pursuing the STEM-related subjects increasingly required for 21st Century jobs. We believe our investment in teachers who inspire and motivate middle school students at this critical decision-making age will directly impact the development of a new generation of scientists in academic research, advanced technology and infrastructure engineering.”
Created in partnership between the National Stem Cell Foundation and The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University (WKU), the National STEM Scholar Program selects ten teachers each year from a national pool of applicants based solely on the description of a “big idea” Challenge Project the applicant would implement if funds were available.
Selected projects are chosen for maximum impact in middle school classrooms where research shows lifelong STEM career decisions are being made. STEM Scholars convene on WKU’s campus for a week of advanced STEM training and finalize their projects with input from their STEM Scholar class colleagues.