Schoolyard Ecology Summer Institute for Educators 2024

 Have you been looking for ways to engage your students in authentic science practices that also brings them outside and engages them with climate science? Come join us this summer to train up on a Harvard Forest Schoolyard project. Our Schoolyard Ecology program is currently in its 20th year of helping teachers get their students outside and seeing how climate change is effecting their schoolyards.

Through our citizen science projects, we empower students and the adults who support them to use Science as a tool for building a relationship with the natural world, and to ultimately join the community of climate change problem solvers.

We support educators in building their student’s data literacy skills through free year-round professional development and coaching support.

Open to teachers of grades 2-12.

Register here: https://forms.gle/wdAbu2bF489U6CBJ7

Monday, August 12th: Project Training deep dives (choose 1)

• Hemlock Wooley Adelgid Invasive Species Monitoring Study
• Our Changing Forests Study
• Buds, Leaves, and Global Warming Phenology Study

To learn more about each project, please visit our website: https://harvardforest.fas.harvard.edu/schoolyard-lter-program

Tuesday, August 13th: Dedrochronology!

Come learn from two educators in our Schoolyard Community what they learned this summer embedded in the Tree Ring Lab at Harvard Forest and get trained on their tool kit that they created to tell the stories of climate that our Northeast trees tell.

Cost: Free--if you are considering becoming a new educator collaborator sign up here and contact Katharine Hinkle to set up a time to talk about what is involved in being a Schoolyard Collaborator (katharinehinkle@fas.harvard.edu)

All workshops at the Fisher Museum, 324 N. Main Street, Petersham, MA

9 am-3:30 pm 

Bring your own bagged lunch

Optional additional trail walks each day

Dress for spending time outside

Overnight accommodations available for folks traveling long distances

Reach out with questions to Katharine Hinkle (katharinehinkle@fas.harvard.edu)

Workshop title: Imagination Toolbox Summer Workshop 2024

Host: MIT Scheller Teacher Education Program

When: August 5-9, 9am-3:30pm

Where: In-person at MIT (recommended) or remote via Zoom

Cost: Free, but space is limited.

PDPs: 30 PDPs or 3 CEUs for full participation

Imagination Toolbox is a fun, creative week of professional development for teachers looking for ways to incorporate the power of computational modeling into their classes. Computational modeling is a foundational practice of modern science, but many high school students graduate without ever having experienced it. We're trying to change that with our modeling platform, StarLogo Nova. StarLogo Nova is a free, online, blocks-based, 3D, agent-based programming environment designed specifically for creating computational models and games in classroom contexts. Imagine animals in a complex ecosystem, molecules in a chemical reaction, or even swarms of invading aliens in sci-fi snowball fight--all of these can be brought to life through simple, blocks-based code.

We've developed many ideas and sample activities in biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and more over the years that you can adapt or extend to suit your students and subject area. Or, you are welcome to design your own idea from the ground up, supported by insightful peers, talented MIT/Wellesley student assistants, and our experienced staff. Either way, you'll leave the workshop having learned a lot and planned a new activity specifically designed for your students--and you'll probably have a lot of fun, too.

We hope you'll consider joining us, or, better yet, inviting a colleague or two and joining as a team! For more information, see: https://education.mit.edu/project/imagination-toolbox/

Or, to go straight to the registration form: https://forms.gle/7wDeZA2oRmKTM8XZ9 

Feel free to contact workshop coordinator Daniel Wendel (djwendel@mit.edu) directly with any questions. We hope to see you this summer!

• Apply Now - https://needorg.my.salesforce-sites.com/event/home/ma072924

  Where & When
  Emerald Resort
  35 Scudder Avenue
  Hyannis, MA 02601
  July 29 – 31, 2024

   

  About the Conference

  Educators from across Massachusetts will come together for three days of engaging and fun energy education training with the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project. The conference is fully sponsored, including lodging, and offered at no cost to educators. The conference provides you with the most up-to-date information on all aspects of energy. You will receive the training and materials to implement innovative hands-on energy units in your classrooms, multi-disciplinary teams, and after-school programs. We will provide extra night for those driving more than 90 miles to the conference.

   

  Who Should Attend?

  •          Educators interested in energy!

  •          K-12 Teachers

  •          Science and STEM Teachers

  •          AP Environmental Science Teachers

  •          CTE Teachers

  •          Out of School Time Program Leaders

  •          Student Advocacy Organization Leaders

   

  What Do Participants Receive?

  •          Massachusetts standards aligned curriculum

  •          Choice of NEED Kit

  •          Stipend

  •          PDP Certificate

  •          PRIZES

  •          Graduate Credit

  •          A great opportunity to learn with fellow    educators in an engaging and fun way

• ·                  The chance to network with energy professionals to learn more about energy careers and the energy landscape in Massachusetts.

 

 

Questions

If you have questions or need assistance, please email Wendi Moss at wmoss@need.org  or call 1-800-875-5029.

 

AGENDA
July 29, 2024

11:00 a.m.       Registration and Energy Challenge Activities

11:30 a.m.       Lunch and Welcome

12:30 p.m.       Introductions and MA Energy Efficiency Bingo

1:15 p.m.         Science of Energy

2:45 p.m.         Energy Roundup

3:15 p.m.         Energy Source Break Out Sessions

·        Onshore and Offshore Wind

·        Exploring Solar

4:15 p.m.         Energy Source Breakout Sessions (Swap)

5:15 p.m.         Q&A and NEED Internet Resources

5:45 p.m.         Dinner and Presentation

 

July 30, 2024

7:30 a.m.         Breakfast

8:30 a.m.         Science of Electricity

9:30 a.m.         The Electric Grid – Reliably Smart

10:00 a.m.       Massachusetts Electric Connections

10:30 a.m.       Baseload Balance

11:15 a.m.       Electric Vehicles

12:00 p.m.      Lunch

12:45 p.m.      Energy Storage – Expanding Capacity

1:15 p.m.         Gather up and get ready to roll

1:30 p.m.         Let’s Take a Field

4:45 p.m.         Reception and Energy Carnival

5:30 p.m.         Dinner

 

July 31, 2024

7:30 a.m.         Breakfast

8:15 a.m.         Exploring Energy Efficiency and Conservation

·        Energy systems in a building

·        New technologies

8:45 a.m.         The Energy House Challenge

10:15 a.m.       Greenhouse gases, climate & energy

11:15 a.m.       Energy Efficiency Career Round Up

11:45 a.m.       Lunch and Speaker

1:00 p.m.         Creating & Facilitating School Energy Teams

1:20 p.m.         Synthesizing the Conference

1:45 p.m.         What’s Next?   Q&A, Post-Assessment, Final Evaluation

2:15 p.m.         Adjourn

MME (Massachusetts Marine Educators) is excited to host the NMEA 2024 annual conference—a special event that will bring together hundreds of professional educators dedicated to teaching about our marine, coastal and aquatic environments.

NMEA members are a group of inspired, passionate people who promote the conservation, enjoyment, and wise use of our aquatic resources by teaching others. We look forward to showcasing our beautiful region through inspirational speakers, field adventures and excursions, engaging presentations, institutional collaborations, and community partnerships.

The NMEA 2024 Conference committee is busily working on all the logistics! As soon as we know - we'll let you know! Please contact us at nmea2024@marine-ed.org with any questions.

Register here! 

If you are an organization, business, or individual that aligns with the NMEA mission and values, we cordially invite you to join us as an exhibitor at the 2024 National Marine Educators Association conference, which will be held at Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts from July 28 - July 30, 2024. 

NMEA is a national, member-based organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and protection of our freshwater and marine ecosystems. During the conference, you will be joined by hundreds of formal and informal educators, research scientists, and state and federal agency representatives to exchange information and build connections that may inspire new ideas.

The exhibit space will be in the Sherman Union, ​​Ziskind Lounge.  Exhibit hours are listed below, and the conference schedule is available here. Please note that while the exhibit space will be open all day, traffic will be lighter during plenary and concurrent sessions. We will have a dedicated exhibitor session on Monday and make every effort to encourage conference attendees to visit the exhibits whenever they can.

EXHIBIT HOURS AND SET-UP/BREAKDOWN TIMES

• Sunday July 28th:

• • 1pm - 4pm - Vendor Set up

• Monday July 29th: 

• • 8am - 10am - Vendor Set-up (continued); Vendors should be set up by 10am

  • 10:15am - Exhibits open

  • 2:30pm-3:30pm - Exhibit and Poster Session

  • 5pm - Exhibits Close

• Tuesday July 30th: 

• • 8am - 5pm - Exhibit Hours

  • Breakdown 5-5:30pm

EXHIBITOR FEES

Options for registration

1. Exhibit Table - Add-on to Full Conference Registration (includes only the registered staff member):

   1. Regular: $100

   2. This option is for the conference registrant to staff the table

2. Exhibitor - Table Only, No Conference Access - not registered for full conference (includes lunch, coffee, and snacks on Monday & Tuesday for two staff):

   1. Regular: $250

Includes:

• Table, 2 chairs, tablecloth

• Wi-fi is included; power access may be available

NMEA 2024 Auction

July 28 - Aug 1

Donations support scholarships for Marine Educators

The NMEA 2024 Conference, Boston: Wicked Good Marine Education, will bring together hundreds of professional educators dedicated to teaching about our marine, coastal and aquatic environments. NMEA members are inspired, passionate people who promote the conservation, enjoyment, and wise use of our aquatic resources by teaching others. Our local chapter, Massachusetts Marine Educators (MME), is thrilled to co-host this year!

Each year's conference hosts an auction to raise funds to provide scholarships for the following year's conference, directly supporting marine and aquatic educators. Please consider donating to the auction to support educators and NMEA’s mission! The 2024 NMEA auction will be held Tuesday evening, July 30, 2024 at Boston University’s George Sherman Union.

To donate an item for our 2024 auction,

please submit this form: https://tinyurl.com/25wvjxak

or contact nmea2024@marine-ed.org

NMEA is a member-driven organization whose mission is to make known the world of water, both fresh and salt. With an active membership of educators, researchers, and government agency staff, NMEA provides the on- the-ground efforts that support and promote national initiatives in marine education and conservation. Through our shared endeavors, we have promoted ocean and science literacy and conservation in schools, aquariums, museums, parks, and programs throughout the world. NMEA is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, Tax ID 05-0413784.

Teacher Summer Institute

JULY 22, 2024 | 12:00 AM - JULY 26, 2024 | 11:59 PM

Northeastern Innovation Campus-Burlington MA, Burlington, MA, 01803

Register for Event

MassBioEd’s Teacher Summer Institute is a one week, 40 hour, lab-based course designed to enhance high school teachers skills and content knowledge in Biotechnology. Use this registration form to express your interest but please note that completion of this form does not ensure your spot in the course.

The Teacher Summer Institute  includes a 10 hour pre-workshop assignment  and a 10 – 15 hour post-workshop assignment.  The lab hours are Monday – Friday from 8:30 am  – 4:30 pm.

Applicants for this program should be high school life science educators that will teach at least two courses during the 2024/2025 academic year.

Successfully completion of all components of this program will qualify for 3 graduate credits from Westfield State University or 67.5 PDPs from MassBioEd.

A $200 fully refundable deposit will be collected from all participants.

Once you complete this form, a MassBioEd staff member will be in contact with next steps.

INVESTIGATIONS OF THE ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY

SC 534 IMMERSION IN GLOBAL ENERGY DISTRIBUTION (4 GRADUATE CREDITS)

Offered by Wheelock College of Education and Human Development at Boston University

ABOUT THE COURSE

Immersion in Global Energy Distribution focuses on introducing K-12 teachers to local and global environmental investigations that they can facilitate in a grade appropriate way with their students. A principal objective is for participants to recognize potential areas for investigations around their school (e.g., an outdoor classroom, a garden area) and in the school’s community that their students will find engaging out of curiosity or environmental justice.

In the spirit of “we teach the way we have been taught”, immersion in this course is participants engaging in an environmental investigation in which they will define research questions relevant to their school and community, collect data, analyze it, and prepare a poster presentation. During the course, instructors will visit each teacher’s school to advise on grade appropriate and school appropriate local investigations.

GLOBE (globe.gov) and My NASA Data will be primary resources for methods of investigation, lesson plans, and global environmental data. GLOBE and NASA resources map onto the major content areas of AP Environmental Science.

Initial sessions will be held at the Blue Hills Observatory Science Center to practice investigation methods for the four spheres (atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and pedosphere).

This course will be run as a seminar. We invite teachers from all grades to participate. Through discussion, participants will see how Earth systems science concepts are vertically integrated across grades in the Massachusetts Science and Engineering/Technology Standards.

L O GI S T I C S

Introduction to Methods of Investigation

Dates: Tuesdays from 4:30PM - 7:30PM on May 28, June 4, June 11, and June 18.

Location: Blue Hills Observatory (BHO), 1 Observatory Service Rd, Milton, MA 02186

Immersion/Investigation Seminar Schedule

Dates: July 8 – 11 & July 15 - 18 9AM – 1PM

Location: Science Materials Center. Campbell Resource Center, 1216 Dorchester Avenue; Blue Hills Reservation; and, teachers’ schools.

Tuition: $1992 (BPS teachers receive discount)

Contacts: garik@bu.edu, sfeit@bu.edu

For registration, please contact Peter Garik at garik@bu.edu

Applications for the Massachusetts Policy Fellowship are Open!

 

Applications for the Massachusetts Policy Fellowship are now open! Are you interested in growing as an educator and professional? Do you want to have a voice in the decisions impacting your profession? Consider applying today for this year long, paid teacher leadership opportunity! Feel free to share this opportunity and nominate educators you think might be interested! What is the Massachusetts Policy Fellowship? The Massachusetts Policy Fellowship is a highly selective leadership opportunity for outstanding teachers looking to deepen your knowledge of education policy and gain a voice in decisions that affect your students and the teaching profession. The fellowship is open to teachers in the Greater Boston area and to teachers across Massachusetts. ·        Fellows receive training through expert-led modules and direct engagement with experts in education policy and key decision makers. No prior policy experience required.  ·        Fellows expand their influence without leaving the classroom. ·        Fellows stay focused on their classroom and minimize disruptions to their instruction by using a blended learning approach with a combination of monthly virtual and live meetings held after school, or during the weekend.  ·        Fellows receive a $1,500 stipend for their commitment. Qualifications: Teach Plus seeks a cohort of teachers who reflect the cultural and geographic diversity of Massachusetts. Apply to the policy fellowship if you:​ ·        Are a current teacher of record (ECE-Grade 12) with at least two full years of teaching experience by August 2024. ·        Have a track record of success teaching students in traditional public or charter schools in Massachusetts. ·        Are ready to dedicate your time and energy to learning about policy and advocating on behalf of changes that impact your students — while continuing to teach full time. ·        Have a passion for sharing the diverse perspectives and experiences of students and teachers with policy makers.   Applications are due on May 27, 2024.         For more information, please contact Kimberly Nguyen at knguyen@teachplus.org.

Miami University’s Project Dragonfly is accepting applications for 2024 Earth Expeditions graduate courses that offer extraordinary experiences at global field sites in 15 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. http://EarthExpeditions.MiamiOH.edu

Earth Expeditions can build toward the Global Field Program (GFP), a master's degree that combines summer field courses worldwide with web learning communities so that students can complete the GFP master's part-time from anywhere in the United States or abroad. Applications are now being accepted until January 28. Courses begin in May 2024. http://GFP.MiamiOH.edu

Project Dragonfly also offers the Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) master's degree that combines web instruction from Miami University with face-to-face experiential learning and field study through several AIP sites in the U.S. Applications for Miami's 2024 cohorts are being now being accepted until February 28, with place-based experiences provided at zoos and botanical gardens in Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Detroit, Jacksonville, New York, San Diego, and St. Louis. http://AIP.MiamiOH.edu

Graduate tuition for all programs is greatly reduced because of support from Miami University. NEW for 2024 Applicants: To help make a Miami education more accessible and affordable, the Miami University Graduate School will waive the $50 application fee for those who attend an Information Session preceding the fee payment step of the application process. https://miamioh.edu/cas/graduate-studies/project-dragonfly/highlights-and-digital-media/informational-webinars.html

Project Dragonfly reaches millions of people each year through inquiry-driven learning media, public exhibits, and graduate programs worldwide. Project Dragonfly is based in the biology department at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Established as a state university in 1809, Miami is one of the eight original Public Ivies and has a distinguished record of excellence in research and teaching in science and science education.