Ten middle school science teachers from eight states across the country recently participated in the prestigious National STEM Scholar Program, a unique professional development and networking program to provide advanced training for the teachers of aspiring middle school scientists nationwide.
In 2016, the National Stem Cell Foundation partnered with The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science in Kentucky at Western Kentucky University to fund competitive scholarships for science teachers motivating students at the tipping point of life-long science interest: middle school.
Photo courtesy of Angela GospodarekGorham Middle School teacher Angela Gospodarek was one of 10 middle school science teachers in the nation who participated in a unique professional development program recently.
By “training the trainers,” the program seeks to inspire the next generation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) innovators and pioneers.
The 2017 National STEM Scholar class was hosted by The Gatton Academy in June at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This year’s National STEM Scholars were selected from applicants in 25 states and included Gorham Middle School science teacher Angela Gospodarek, the only representative from Maine.
According to Dr. Paula Grisanti, National Stem Cell Foundation Chairman, “The STEM Scholar program directly influences middle school science teachers who will interact with students and colleagues for many years to come. Building excitement and opportunity insight for children in this age group has been shown to significantly impact ongoing STEM interest and engagement.”
“Research shows that children in middle school who become excited about science are the ones who will pursue STEM courses in high school and major in STEM subjects at the college level,” said Grisanti. “Focusing our efforts and resources on reaching this influential group of teachers will bear fruit now and into the future.”
During the week-long program, National STEM Scholars engage in hands-on, minds-on science activities, connect with speakers and thought leaders in STEM education, train with skilled science educators and develop a creative Challenge Project for classroom implementation. Each Scholar receives a Chromebook to facilitate ongoing collaboration and a generous stipend for Challenge Project supplies and materials.
“In Kentucky, I met some amazing educators and participated in a lot of hands-on activities,” said Gospodarek. “I think everyone in any profession should be able to spend a week like this…so much excitement and activity that I can’t wait to bring back to my classroom.”
Mentoring is provided throughout the year by Gatton Academy faculty. In addition, National STEM Scholars will share midpoint progress with their colleagues while attending the National Science Teacher Association (NSTA) annual March conference.
All expenses, including travel costs, materials, mentoring and Challenge Project supplies are covered by a grant from the National Stem Cell Foundation. The National STEM Scholars Program is in its second year of a five-year grant provided by the National Stem Cell Foundation.
“I had an amazing week of learning and brought back lots of great ideas for my classroom,” said Gospodarek. “The project I will be getting funded through this opportunity is an aquaponics system that will engage students in sustainable farming in my classroom. My goal is to excite and engage students in their local environment and explore current issues in today’s changing world.”