May 15th, 2013 Bob
This week: (1) Greetings (2) #OKSci Leadership (3) Vision 2020 Conference (4) Professional Development Opportunities (5) Student Opportunities
“In teaching you cannot see the fruit of a day’s work. It is invisible and remains so, maybe for twenty years.” – Unknown
This is one of my favorite quotes as an educator and so true! Many of my former students are graduating, some from high school and some from college, and I am thrilled to see them wear their caps and gowns. I wonder what paths their lives will take in the coming years and how they will grow as individuals. As your school year comes to a close, I hope you have time to reflect on the many lives you have impacted this year. You may not be able to see the fruit yet, because some fruit takes many years to develop, but I hope you know that the long hours you’ve put in planning, grading, and mentoring will certainly produce an abundance of it!
I am so proud to be a part of this profession and even prouder to be a member of the science education community in Oklahoma! I’ve had numerous opportunities this year to meet so many of you and I have had the great honor of working with the outstanding members of the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Writing Team this spring. We are so fortunate to have such expertise in our state!
With that in mind, we have an exciting opportunity for those who might be interested in a science leadership opportunity in our state.
#OKSci Leadership:
Recognizing the extreme need around recruiting and retaining highly effective mathematics and science teachers, the OSDE seeks to create a cadre of highly motivated and innovative educators who will actively contribute to the statewide effort to improve mathematics and science education. Recognizing lack of opportunities for leadership, innovation, and autonomy as key factors leading to the low retention rates of our best educators, the OSDE will bring together 30 math and 30 science educators to be empowered leaders within a highly competitive and prestigious professional learning network called #OKMath Leadership and #OKSci Leadership. Each class will last for one year, consist of quarterly meetings, and culminate with a Class Project.
At the 2013 Vision 2020 Conference, 60 educators will join together as Class 0, the pilot classes of the #OKMath and #OKSci Leadership effort. It is imperative that members of this first class are highly motivated, invested in mathematics education, desire to refine their educational leadership perspective and capacity, and committed to helping shape the future structure and vision for leadership classes to come.
Selection for Class 0
The pilot class, Class 0, will be hand selected from each of 30 REAC3H Coach Regions and must be currently teaching mathematics or science students at a PK through 12 level.
Selection for Subsequent Classes
Membership for subsequent classes will be the result of an application and blind review process. Further communication around the official selection procedures will be determined to a greater degree by members of Class 0.
Responsibilities
· Attend each quarterly meeting (all meetings are 2 days):
o Alpha Meeting – Vision 2020, July 9-10, 2013
o Beta Meeting – TBA (Sept-Oct)
o Gamma Meeting – TBA (Jan)
o Delta Meeting – TBA (May)
· Contribute a Class Project to Oklahoma Education based on Class expertise and experiences over the course of the four meetings.
· Class 0 Members will contribute to the vision and procedures to guide future #OKMath and #OKSci Leadership Classes.
Requirements
· Must teach math or science during application process and during membership.
Inquiries?
· #OKMath – Levi Patrick (levi.patrick@sde.ok.gov)
· #OKMath – Sara Snodgrass (sara.snodgrass@sde.ok.gov)
· #OKSci – Tiffany Neill (tiffany.neill@sde.ok.gov)
Applications will be going out later this week through the science and math listservs and on the #OKSci and #OKMath Facebook pages.
If you would like to have an applications mailed to your summer e-mail account please e-mail me with that information.
Vision 2020 Conference:
Registration is now open for the 2013 OSDE VISION 2020 Summer Conference!
The Oklahoma State Department of Education’s VISION 2020 conference will be held July 9-11, 2013 at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City. Online registration for attendees and exhibitors, and proposals to present are now available on our website along with other conference information such as hotel accommodations.
Science Sessions: Tuesday July 9th
The science sessions scheduled for July 9th at Vision 2020 will provide participants with a wide variety of opportunities to engage in interactive professional development in science! Topics of focus include: exploring scientific practices, literacy in science, lesson designing. Several members of the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Writing Team will be presenting at the conference and I will also be giving an update on the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards. I hope to see all of you there!
For general conference information and to register, please visit: http://ok.gov/sde/vision2020
Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers:
NASA Eclipse Professional Development Institute:
The ECLIPSE project is a STEM Education grant awarded by NASA to Seminole Public Schools and Oklahoma State University. It promotes problem-based learning in science and mathematics education and provides an online learning environment that helps students develop individual and collaborative problem solving skills. ECLIPSE (Environment for Cyber Learning Integrating Problem Solving Experiences) provides instructional design and assessment tools for the teacher to create an authentic problem solving activity and implement it effectively in the classroom, together with providing scaffolding for students to engage in real-life problem solving.
When: June 26-28, 2013
Where: Seminole State College, Seminole OK
Contacts: Pasha Antonenko (p.antonenko@coe.ufl.edu) Ronda Townsend (rtownsend@sps.k12.ok.us)document
See attached document for more details.
Oklahoma State & Haliburton Geosciences Ambassador Program:
Enrich your geosciences classroom and link with OSU scientists. The OSHGA-GAP includes workshops, labs, field trips and accommodations.
When: June 9th-15th
Where: Oklahoma State University in Stillwater
See attached flyer for more details
Environmental Blast:
Please see the attached document for details on free programs, awards, and grant opportunities related to environmental education.
Oklahoma Environmental Education Guide:
Link to download: http://www.deq.state.ok.us/pubs/lpd/EnvResourceGuide_Web.pdf
First Robotics:
Interested in starting a FIRST Robotics team [First Lego League (FLL), FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) in your school? Sign up to attend a FIRST Robotics training.
See attached memo for details.
Opportunities for Students:
Cyber Patriot:
A high school level computer network skills competition. Teams may register now but won’t start the learning and competition until next fall’s semester. We have teamed with Rose State College to offer free classes to teams on Saturdays if they wish to learn more and successfully complete.
http://www.uscyberpatriot.org/Pages/default.aspx
Summer Academy for Chemistry:
The UCO Department of Chemistry is holding a summer academy for 8th-10th graders. Students will participate in lab activities that show the many ways chemistry impacts human health. If you would like more information please contact Dr. Dana Rundle at drundle@uco.edu.
See attached document for details.
Stay Connected:
Follow me on Twitter: @tiffanyneill
Facebook: #OKSci
Hashtags: #oksde #OKSci #OKSTEM
Sign Up for a Twitter account: https://twitter.com/
OKSci Recources:
Classroom Strategies: http://www.scoop.it/t/oksci-classroom-strategies
Website Resources Elementary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SciElemLinks
Website Resources Secondary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SecScienceLinks
Accessing Archived Science Messages:
You can access Archived Science Messages I’ve sent out since March via the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) website. Scroll down to see previous posts.
Science Listserv:
Please encourage others to register for the science listserv and pass along the following registration link:
Register for Science Listserv
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
-Tiffany
Tiffany Neill, M.Ed.
Director of Science Education
Office of Instruction
Oklahoma State Department of Education
P: 405.522.3524
Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
@tiffanyneill
Science Webpage
PE & Health Webpage
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February 26th, 2013 Bob
Greetings Fellow Science Educators!
Next week I will be attending the PARCC Educator Leader Cadre (Chicago). As you know, our students are scheduled to take the PARCC assessments for mathematics and English Language Arts in 2014-2015. While these assessments will not serve as our science assessments, the PARCC English Language Arts test will assess student literacy skills and abilities.
As such, students may be asked to analyze an informational piece of text over a topic in science. With that in mind I would love the opportunity to answer any questions you may have pertaining to the PARCC assessments.
We’ve set up a survey so we can collect some of the questions you might have. Please see the link below.
PARCC Survey
The Teaching Channel:
I often watch videos on The Teaching Channel to see what strategies teachers are using in their classrooms and I stumbled upon the video below. The video showcases a science teacher’s use of the 5E instructional model in a 5th grade classroom.
If you have an opportunity to meet with fellow science teachers in your school/district I encourage you to utilize the video as a discussion topic for your professional learning communities (PLC).
Physical Change Lesson
Reflection Questions for Science PLC:
1. How does this instructional model encourage student engagement?
2. How does this instructional model align to effective teaching practices?
3. How would you utilize strategies from this lesson in your own classroom?
Educator Opportunities:
REAC3H Summit: March 26th
Free Professional Development! Join me as we explore Common Core Literacy in Science with model lessons and teaching strategies that align to Oklahoma C3 Science Standards and Literacy. This session will be different than the regional trainings I’ve been conducting around the state. There are only 100 spots for science teachers that are saved just for you! Register soon! Visit http://reac3hnetwork.eventbrite.com/ to register. See attached flyer.
Vision 2020 Conference and Proposal Requests
This is going to be a great conference for us. Science and STEM will have a great block of sessions. Save the data for JULY 9-11. Read more at http://www.ok.gov/sde/vision2020.
Also, if you are doing good things, we need great presenters. Proposals are due April 1 Proposal Requests
Oklahoma State Department of Education Common Core Regional Meetings:
- Weatherford for Elementary Teachers (March 29) 12:30-4:00 pm
- Weatherford for Secondary Teachers (March 29) 8:00-11:30 am
- Woodward for Elementary Teachers (April 5) 12:30-4:00 pm
- Woodward for Secondary Teachers (April 5) 8:00-11:30 am
Register for all Regional Meetings at: http://osde-regionalmeetings.eventbrite.com/
Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
Read about it here .
Nominations period is open! Nomination Deadline is April 1, 2013.
Start considering great 7-12 science teachers now!
University of Oklahoma College of Engineering Research Experience for Teacher (RET) Program: June 17th – July 26th
The RET provides high school math and science teachers the opportunity to actively work with OU engineering faculty on engineering research. You will use this hands-on experience to develop authentic inquiry-based math and/or science curriculum that you will implement during the 2013-2014 academic year. The RET provides a total stipend of $4000 for participation in the year-long program. Nominal travel funds are available to those with demonstrated need.
For more information on the RET program, including possible engineering research topics, summer workshops, lesson plans previously developed, etc., please visit our RET website at
http://www.ou.edu/content/coe/centers/Researchteachers/home.html.
Attached is the program flyer and application form. Please email your completed application form along with the required documents to chenling@ou.edu. If you have any questions, please contact Chen Ling at chenling@ou.edu or 405.996.8453 (phone), 405.325.7555(fax).
Environmental Education Week Webinar: Thursday February 28th 7:00 pm
Using Technology to Investigate the Outdoors
See more
Ag in the Classroom Garden Grants Available: Deadline March 15th
Ag in the Classroom is offering $500 garden grants to Oklahoma educators. For more information including an application go to www.agclassroom.org/ok
The Environmentor: 3rd Issue
http://www.okcu.edu/environmentor/
Accountability & Assessment Resources:
Accountability & Assessment Resources page for the SDE website has been updated.
Science Teachers will find the resources listed below on the SDE website by clicking on this link.
http://www.ok.gov/sde/accountability-assessment-resources
- Science Standard Flip Charts | Grade 5 (pdf) | Grade 8 (pdf)| EOI Biology I Content and Process (pdf)
- Science Depth-of-Knowledge Transition Chart, 2010-2013 (pdf)
- Science Formula pages | Grade 8 (pdf) |
Next Generation Science Standards Resources:
- Take a look at the short video developed by Matt Krehbiel, Science Education Program Consultant for the Kansas State Department of Education, that will help you to navigate the Next Generation Science Standards website and the Achieve survey.
- Learn more and sign up for one of these upcoming NSTA webinars on Engineering Practices in NGSS (1/15); Using the NGSS Practices in the Elementary Grades (1/29); or Making Connections Between NGSS and Common Core Math and ELA (2/12).
- Watch Montana teacher of the year Paul Anderson’s comprehensive video series on NGSS.
- Take a peek at one of the eight webinars presented earlier this fall that focused on the Scientific and Engineering Practices described in A Framework for K–12 Science Education.
- Read and download NSTA’s growing collection of monthly journal articles exploring the Framework. Articles examine the practices, crosscutting concepts, connections to common core, and more. Watch for upcoming articles on the core ideas by Rodger Bybee, Joe Krajcik, and Michael Wysession.
Stay Connected:
Follow me on Twitter: @tiffanyneill
Facebook: #OKSci
Hashtags: #oksde #OKSci #OKSTEM
Sign Up for a Twitter account: https://twitter.com/
OKSci Recources:
Classroom Strategies: http://www.scoop.it/t/oksci-classroom-strategies
Website Resources Elementary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SciElemLinks
Website Resources Secondary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SecScienceLinks
Accessing Archived Science Messages:
You can access Archived Science Messages I’ve sent out since March via the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) website. Scroll down to see previous posts.
Science Listserv:
Please encourage others to register for the science listserv and pass along the following registration link:
Register for Science Listserv
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
-Tiffany
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January 31st, 2013 Bob
Application Deadline Extended to February 4th, 2013
The deadline for applications for the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Review Committee is fast approaching! Thank you to everyone who has already submitted an application, I have received several to date.
Applications can be downloaded from the Science Webpage.
The Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Review Committee will consist of two teams:
(1) Writing Team: As a participant of the Writing Team, individuals will be required to attend on-site meetings and will participate in the writing of the revised Oklahoma C3 Science Standards.
(2) Draft Team: As a member of the Draft Team, participants will be asked to review drafts of the standards developed by the Writing Team and provide feedback. Reviews will be conducted electronically and will not require on-site meetings.
You will find a copy of the application attached to this message. You may complete the application digitally and submit it to me by e-mail by clicking on the submit button on page 4 of the application.
You will need to attach the application as a document to the e-mail as the submit button just provides a direct link to my e-mail.
The committee will be composed of science educators, scientists and engineers, and business, industry, and community members.
If you have any questions about the process, please feel free to contact me.
Teaching Current Events in Science: Strategies and Resources
Bringing current events into the science classroom can be an engaging way to expand upon students’ interests in science. Current events can also be utilized to reinforce concepts students gain through explorations in the science classroom.
I often watch videos on The Teaching Channel to see what strategies teachers are using in their classrooms and I stumbled upon the video below. The video showcases a science teacher’s use of current events in science in his classroom.
The Teaching Channel: Making Science Relevant with Current Events
· Documents utilized in the video can be accessed on the sidebar of the webpage under supporting materials.
- Current Science Events-Science Events Lesson Plan (includes a document that can be utilized for citations and document analysis)
- Science Tweets Worksheet
Websites for Current Events in Science:
· http://www.sciencenewsforkids.org/
· http://www.sciencenews.org/
· http://www.sciencedaily.com/
· http://news.discovery.com/
· http://www.nationalgeographic.com/
· http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/
· http://www.sciencenewsforkids.org/2013/01/cool-jobs-delving-into-dung/
Accountability & Assessment Resources:
Accountability & Assessment Resources page for the SDE website has been updated.
Science Teachers will find the resources listed below on the SDE website by clicking on this link.
· http://www.ok.gov/sde/accountability-assessment-resources
- Science Standard Flip Charts | Grade 5 (pdf) | Grade 8 (pdf)| EOI Biology I Content and Process (pdf)
- Science Depth-of-Knowledge Transition Chart, 2010-2013 (pdf)
- Science Formula pages | Grade 8 (pdf) |
Educator Opportunities:
Oklahoma State Department of Education Common Core Regional Meetings:
· Union for Elementary Teachers (February 20) 12:30-4:00 pm
· Union for Secondary Teachers (February 20) 8:00-11:30 am
· Hugo for Elementary Teachers (February 22) 12:30-4:00 pm
· Hugo for Secondary Teachers (February 22) 8:00-11:30 am
· Weatherford for Elementary Teachers (March 29) 12:30-4:00 pm
· Weatherford for Secondary Teachers (March 29) 8:00-11:30 am
Register for all Regional Meetings at: http://osde-regionalmeetings.eventbrite.com/
Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
Read about it here .
Nominations period is open! Nomination Deadline is April 1, 2013.
Start considering great 7-12 science teachers now!
Oklahoma Environmental Education Expo: February 1st
The Oklahoma Environmental Education Expo is being held at Rosser Conservation Education Center, at the Oklahoma City Zoological Park from 8:00 am -4:00 pm.
Mammals from Head to Toe: A Skins, Skulls, and Tracks Workshop February 12th, 2013
Join the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Oklahoma Conservation Commission and the Rogers County Conservation District for a one-day workshop to learn how to identify some of Oklahoma’s most common mammals from clues they leave behind.
Registration Deadline: Friday February 8th, 2013 Location: Hackberry Flat Center, Frederick, OK Time: 9:00 am to 3:30 pm See attached flyer here for details.
Deadline for Reviewing the Next Generation Science Standards: January 31st
Last week Achieve released the second (and final) public draft of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). All science educators, administrators, and other stakeholders are strongly encouraged to review the draft and provide feedback online to Achieve during the comment period, which ends January 29. Review the draft here.
NSTA has a vast collection of materials organized by topic and disciplinary core ideas to help you study the second public draft of NGSS. Find them here.
Take a look at the short video developed by Matt Krehbiel, Science Education Program Consultant for the Kansas State Department of Education, that will help you to navigate the Next Generation Science Standards website and the Achieve survey.
Learn more and sign up for one of these upcoming NSTA webinars on Engineering Practices in NGSS (1/15); Using the NGSS Practices in the Elementary Grades (1/29); or Making Connections Between NGSS and Common Core Math and ELA (2/12).
Watch Montana teacher of the year Paul Anderson’s comprehensive video series on NGSS.
Take a peek at one of the eight webinars presented earlier this fall that focused on the Scientific and Engineering Practices described in A Framework for K–12 Science Education.
Read and download NSTA’s growing collection of monthly journal articles exploring the Framework. Articles examine the practices, crosscutting concepts, connections to common core, and more. Watch for upcoming articles on the core ideas by Rodger Bybee, Joe Krajcik, and Michael Wysession.
Stay Connected:
Follow me on Twitter: @tiffanyneill
Facebook: #OKSci
Hashtags: #oksde #OKSci #OKSTEM
Sign Up for a Twitter account: https://twitter.com/
OKSci Recources:
Classroom Strategies: http://www.scoop.it/t/oksci-classroom-strategies
Website Resources Elementary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SciElemLinks
Website Resources Secondary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SecScienceLinks
Accessing Archived Science Messages:
You can access Archived Science Messages I’ve sent out since March via the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) website. Scroll down to see previous posts.
Science Listserv:
Please encourage others to register for the science listserv and pass along the following registration link:
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
Tiffany Neill, M.Ed.
Director of Science Education
Office of Instruction
Oklahoma State Department of Education
P: 405.522.3524
Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
@tiffanyneill
Science Webpage
PE & Health Webpage
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January 15th, 2013 Bob
Greetings Fellow Science Educators!
I hope you all enjoyed your time with friends and family over the holidays! With the start of a new year I have numerous exciting opportunities to share with you, including the kick off to our process for revising the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards.
We are now accepting applications for those that are interested in serving on the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Revision Committee.
The Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Review Committee will consist of two teams:
(1) Writing Team: As a participant of the Writing Team, individuals will be required to attend on-site meetings and will participate in the writing of the revised Oklahoma C3 Science Standards.
(2) Draft Team: As a member of the Draft Team, participants will be asked to review drafts of the standards developed by the Writing Team and provide feedback. Reviews will be conducted electronically and will not require on-site meetings.
You will find a copy of the application HERE. You may complete the application digitally and submit it to me by e-mail by clicking on the submit button on page 4 of the application.
You will need to attach the application as a document to the e-mail as the submit button just provides a direct link to my e-mail.
The committee will be composed of science educators, scientists and engineers, and business, industry, and community members.
If you have any questions about the process or if you have issues with the pdf document, please feel free to contact me.
Tiffany Neill at 405-522-3524 or Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
2nd Draft of the Next Generation Science Standards Just Released:
Last week Achieve released the second (and final) public draft of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). All science educators, administrators, and other stakeholders are strongly encouraged to review the draft and provide feedback online to Achieve during the comment period, which ends January 29. Review the draft here.
NSTA has a vast collection of materials organized by topic and disciplinary core ideas to help you study the second public draft of NGSS. Find them here.
Take a look at the short video developed by Matt Krehbiel, Science Education Program Consultant for the Kansas State Department of Education, that will help you to navigate the Next Generation Science Standards website and the Achieve survey.
Learn more and sign up for one of these upcoming NSTA webinars on Engineering Practices in NGSS (1/15); Using the NGSS Practices in the Elementary Grades (1/29); or Making Connections Between NGSS and Common Core Math and ELA (2/12).
Watch Montana teacher of the year Paul Anderson’s comprehensive video series on NGSS.
Take a peek at one of the eight webinars presented earlier this fall that focused on the Scientific and Engineering Practices described in A Framework for K–12 Science Education.
Read and download NSTA’s growing collection of monthly journal articles exploring the Framework. Articles examine the practices, crosscutting concepts, connections to common core, and more. Watch for upcoming articles on the core ideas by Rodger Bybee, Joe Krajcik, and Michael Wysession.
Resources:
Lesson Idea using Virtual Lab for Measuring the Rate of Photosynthesis in Elodea
If I still had students I think I would do the following 5e lesson with this resource:
Engage: If you increase the light intensity for elodea will the rate of photosynthesis increase? Let students answer this question on a sheet of paper and commit and toss their responses making sure they explain the reasoning behind their response.
Explore: Then let students decide in small groups how they want to plan the investigation, collect data, and report out data.
Explain: Lead a class discussion around the class findings and assist in explaining why they got the results they got.
Evaluate: Return to the engagement question and let students redo their responses or back up their original response with evidence from data they collected or information gained from the lesson.
Elaborate: Have students predict which areas of the world would have the greatest plant biomass, and explain the impacts that destruction of those areas could have. (Thanks Brandi Parson Williams for the elaborate idea from the #OKSci Facebook page). There also might be some great articles for students to explore in this elaboration.
NAE, AFT Partner to Build Common Core Tools:
The two national teachers’ unions have won $11 million to build an online warehouse of instructional tools for the Common Core State Standards. Student Achievement Partners, whose founders led the writing of the standards, is also a grantee. It will work with the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association and their teachers to build the tools and post them on Student Achievement Partners’ website. Read more about it!
Educator Opportunities:
Oklahoma State Department of Education Common Core Regional Meetings:
· Bartlesville for Elementary Teachers (January 18) 12:30-4:00 pm
· Bartlesville for Secondary Teachers (January 18) 8:00-11:30 am
· Hugo for Elementary Teachers (February 22) 12:30-4:00 pm
· Hugo for Secondary Teachers (February 22) 8:00-11:30 am
· Weatherford for Elementary Teachers (March 29) 12:30-4:00 pm
· Weatherford for Secondary Teachers (March 29) 8:00-11:30 am
Register for all Regional Meetings at: http://osde-regionalmeetings.eventbrite.com/
Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
Read about it here .
Nominations period is open! Nomination Deadline is April 1, 2013.
Start considering great 7-12 science teachers now!
Geoscience Education Teachers’ Retreat: February 8th (evening – February 10th (morning)
The geosciences are the most underrepresented area of all science fields! Come work with geologist, Dr. Jim Puckette, and science educators Drs. Toni Ivey and Julie Thomas to learn more about geology and how it connects to your biology, chemistry, and physics classroom!
The retreat will take place at Roman Nose State Park. Participants will receive a $50 travel stipend, $150 participant stipend, and room and board while at Roman Nose State Park.
Space is limited! Please CLICK HERE TO REGISTER! Register by January 31, 2013.
Earth and Space Science Education in Oklahoma Stakeholder’s Summit: February 15th
On February 15, 2013, I Toni Ivey will chair an Earth and Space Science Education Stakeholder’s Summit on the Oklahoma State University campus. This event will focus on three main questions with regard to Earth and space science education in Oklahoma: Where are we? Where do we need to be? and How do we get there? Please see below for more information on how to register.
Also, If you have colleagues that you fell would be interested in taking place in the conversation, please forward this message to them. The summit hopes to have representation from across business, industry, and education in Oklahoma.
Register at: http://education.okstate.edu/stakeholders-summit
Student Opportunities:
OSU-National Lab Day (NLD): May 7th
High School teachers are eligible to bring up to 7 students(sophomores and/or juniors)to NLD. Teacher/student teams will visit labs of three OSU STEM Labs and engage in activities related to faculty research.
Space is limited so register today! Teachers can register at:
http://osu-crstl.org/national-lab-day/teacher_registration/
Oklahoma Environmental Education Expo: February 1st
The Oklahoma Environmental Education Expo is being held at Rosser Conservation Education Center, at the Oklahoma City Zoological Park from 8:00 am -4:00 pm. Register at http://oklahomaenvironmentaleducationexpo.com/
11th Annual Regional JSHA Competition: March 1st-2nd
Oklahoma State University is hosting the 11th Annual Regional JSHA Competition. High School students present original research and compete for cash scholarships (up to $200, regionally and $12,000 nationally).
OSU covers travel and lodging expenses and there is a $500 award for the teacher who brings the most high school (10th-12th grade) student presenters. See this Flier for details!
Fleming Scholar Program: Application Deadline February 1st
The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation is now accepting applications for the Fleming Scholar Program. If you know any scientifically passionate students, will you please encourage them to apply?
This program grants selected students an opportunity to work side-by-side with real life, biomedical research scientists for eight weeks during the summer. Scholars also get paid and housing is provided for those who qualify. Applicants do NOT need to have any prior science or research experience. We seek students with passion, curiosity, diligence and enthusiasm.
Requirements:
- Submit online application by February 1
- Send (or have sent) up to three recommendation letters by (or postmarked by) February 1 deadline
- Possess strong enthusiasm for science
- Be a high school senior or college freshman, sophomore or junior
- Be a graduate or soon-to-be graduate from an Oklahoma high school
The application deadline is February 1, and more information is available at http://omrf.org/fleming.
If you have any questions, please contact Courtney Stevens at 405-271-7434 or courtney-stevens@omrf.org
Stay Connected:
Follow me on Twitter: @tiffanyneill
Facebook:#OKSci
Hashtags: #oksde #OKSci #OKSTEM
Sign Up for a Twitter account: https://twitter.com/
OKSci Recources:
Classroom Strategies: http://www.scoop.it/t/oksci-classroom-strategies
Website Resources Elementary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SciElemLinks
Website Resources Secondary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SecScienceLinks
Accessing Archived Science Messages:
You can access Archived Science Messages I’ve sent out since March via the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) website. Scroll down to see previous posts.
Science Listserv:
Please encourage others to register for the science listserv and pass along the following registration link:
Register for Science Listserv
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
-Tiffany
Tiffany Neill, M.Ed.
Director of Science Education
Office of Instruction
Oklahoma State Department of Education
P: 405.522.3524
Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
@tiffanyneill
Science Webpage
PE & Health Webpage
Posted in TiffanyGram | No Comments »
December 7th, 2012 Bob
Greetings Fellow Science Educators!
I have an exciting networking opportunity to share with you this month! In an effort to provide opportunities for science educators to connect, we’ve set up a Facebook page for Oklahoma Science Teachers called #OKSCi.
Link: http://on.fb.me/VoIoIx
#OKSci is the Oklahoma Science Education Professional Learning Network. You can be part of the conversation on Facebook or on Twitter. It is a place to grow, to explore, to share, to learn, to mentor, and to be mentored. Although all posts are welcome, we ask that members help to moderate the discussions to keep them positive, fact-based when appropriate, and never vulgar.
Conversations and resources are already being shared by science teachers around the state! I also post the science messages, resources and events on the page as well as answer questions.
I hope you will take the time to join today and become a contributing member to this exciting Professional Learning Network
Standards Update:
Oklahoma C3 Standards Revision Update:
I’ve created an Oklahoma C3 Science Standards FAQ & Timeline to provide educators with the most recent information related to the upcoming Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Revision. See attached flyer
Applications for the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Committees are still being finalized. Applications out via the science listserv when they are completed.
Next Generation Science Standards Draft to Be Released in January:
The second draft of the Next Generation Science Standards are scheduled to be released the first week of January. The draft can be accessed via the following website:
http://www.nextgenscience.org/next-generation-science-standards
Exemplar Lesson:
Math and Science Integrated Lesson:
Wingn’ It: In this lesson, students will experiment with paper helicopters to explore the concept that organisms have a variety of internal and external structures that enable them to survive in a specific habitat. Students analyze data by creating a class scatter plot graph. Students also utilize a line of best fit to develop a Wing length to weight ratio to predict the optimum wing length for any given body weight. Students will then apply this concept to various bird species.
You can access the lesson on K20alt: http://k20alt.ou.edu/groups/wingin-it
Upcoming Events:
Oklahoma State Department of Education Regional Meetings
We are currently scheduling Regional Meetings in the Tulsa, Bartlesville, Weatherford, and Hugo areas. I will send registration information out as soon as the events are finalized.
Educator Award Opportunities:
Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching
Application Due: 12/15/12
http://www.fulbrightteacherexchange.org/distinguished-fulbright-awards-in-teaching-program/application
Stay Connected:
Follow me on Twitter: @tiffanyneill
Facebook: #OKSci
Hashtags: #oksde #OKSci #KnowC3 #OKSTEM
Sign Up for a Twitter account: https://twitter.com/
OKSci Recources:
Classroom Strategies: http://www.scoop.it/t/oksci-classroom-strategies
Website Resources Elementary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SciElemLinks
Website Resources Secondary: http://bit.ly/OSDE-SecScienceLinks
Accessing Archived Science Messages:
You can access Archived Science Messages I’ve sent out since March via the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) website. Scroll down to see previous posts.
Science Listserv:
Please encourage others to register for the science listserv and pass along the following registration link:
Register for Science Listserv
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
-Tiffany
Tiffany Neill, M.Ed.
Director of Science Education
Office of Instruction
Oklahoma State Department of Education
P: 405.522.3524
Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
@tiffanyneill
Science Webpage
PE & Health Webpage
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November 19th, 2012 Bob
Greetings Fellow Science Educators!
As I traveled to Tahlequah last Monday for a regional meeting, I couldn’t help but notice nature’s beautiful foliage. The trees were a myriad of bright fall colors, which reminded me of a question my students used to ask, “Why do leaves change color in the fall?”
This question exemplifies the scientific practice of Asking Questions, introduced by the National Research Council (NRC) in A Framework for K-12 Science Education. According to the NRC, science begins with a question about a phenomenon such as, “Why do leaves change color in the fall?
A basic practice of the scientist is to make observations about a phenomenon, ask questions about it, determine what is already known about the phenomenon and determine what questions have to yet to be satisfactorily answered.
With this in mind, I’ve provided a couple of options for your own “Changing Leaves” investigations. The key to both activities is giving students an opportunity to ask the question, “Why do leaves change colors in the fall?” Once they have asked the question, then they can begin to explore what is already known about the phenomenon and they might even end up with questions that are yet unanswered.
Elementary:
- Have students collect leaves and bring them into the classroom
- Ask students (3-4 students in a group) to group leaves based on similarities and differences.
- Ask student groups to share the ways in which they choose to group their leaves.
- Explore the concept that objects have properties that can be observed described and measured.
Leaves (shape, size, texture, color)
- One group will probably group the leaves based on color.
- Then ask all students, “Why do you think leaves change color in the fall?”
- Explain with a Book: Why Do Leaves Change Color? http://bit.ly/WhyDoLeavesChangeColor (This can be purchased via Google books and displayed on a SmartBoard)
- Check out a non-fiction book from the school or local library to explain the concept of leaves changing color.
- Explain with a Video found on the Internet
Secondary:
- Conduct the “Chemistry of Changing Leaves” Lesson Plan from NBC
See attached document
- Once students have completed the chromatography activity, provide them with non-fiction text that will explain the phenomenon of leaves changing color.
A few links to non-fiction text website about the topic are provided in the lesson.
Good luck with the practice of asking questions and please feel free to send me pictures and comments about the investigations you conduct!
A New Way to Share Resources:
Scoop It: OKSci Classroom Strategies
http://www.scoop.it/t/oksci-classroom-strategies
- In an effort to share classroom strategies, I’ve developed a “Scoop It” page where I will add videos, articles, and much more as I run across them.
- I would be happy to add any resources you find as well.
Feel free to e-mail me links as you find them.
Upcoming Events:
Oklahoma State Department of Education Regional Meetings
· Ardmore for Elementary (K-5) Teachers (Dec 6) – http://ardmore-elementary2012.eventbrite.com
· Ardmore for Secondary (6-12) Teachers (Dec 6)– http://ardmore-secondary2012.eventbrite.com
· Stillwater for Elementary (K-5) Teachers (Dec 10) – http://stillwaterk5-2012.eventbrite.com
· Stillwater for Secondary (6-12) Teachers (Dec 10) – http://stillwater612-2012.eventbrite.com
- Follow our discussions on Twitter by searching #KnowC3
Register for ScienceFest:
Registration for ScienceFest Oklahoma, Oklahoma’s one-of-a-kind science education event http://www.sciencefestok.com/ .
ScienceFest is a free event for Oklahoma fourth and fifth graders to attend, and is set to take place on Thursday, April 18, 2013 at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Registration is first-come, first-serve.
Outdoor Classroom Inventory
Join a statewide project to gather information about outdoor classrooms in Oklahoma! We are building a clickable website resource for teachers – mapping outdoor classroom resources to enhance science learning.
Access the outdoor classroom survey at: http://www.quia.com/sv/594590.html
Email questions to: Luke Weinbrecht weinbre@okstate.edu or Julie Thomas julie.thomas@okstate.edu
BotBall Grants:
The Oklahoma State Department of Education in partnership with Botball will provide grants up to $2,200 per school to facilitate recent start-up and existing Botball team opportunities. Click the application link to get to the grant application form.
http://www.oklahomascienceteachersassociation.org/?p=4553
The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality is currently accepting applications for the 2012 Environmental License Tag Grant.
The deadline is December 1, 2012
http://www.deq.state.ok.us/pubs/lpd/eegrant2012.pdf
For questions or more information, contact:
Sara Ivey, (405) 702-7122
sara.ivey@deq.ok.gov
Northeastern State University (NSU) Chemistry and Physics Academy:
The NSU Chemistry and Physics Academy (NSU-CAPA) will provide research-based professional development for certified science teachers who want to become certified to teach Chemistry and Physics. The two-year program will focus on teacher knowledge, teacher practice, and student achievement in Chemistry and Physics.
See attached flyer
Educator Award Opportunities:
Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
Read about it here .
Nominations open in November…start considering great 7-12 science teachers now!
Einstein Educator Fellow
Application Due: 12/5/12
http://science.energy.gov/wdts/einstein/
Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching
Application Due: 12/15/12
http://www.fulbrightteacherexchange.org/distinguished-fulbright-awards-in-teaching-program/application
Opportunities for Students:
Space Camp
Scholarships for summer 2013 are now open! Trainees ages 9-18 can apply here for a weeklong adventure training to be an astronaut at Space Camp®, a fighter pilot at Aviation Challenge® or design robotics on land, in the air and underwater in the ALL NEW Robotics Camp.
Applications are being accepted now through December 14, 2012. Apply today at www.spacecamp.com/scholarships.
Stay Connected:
Follow me on Twitter: @tiffanyneill
Hashtags: #oksde #OKSci #KnowC3 #OKSTEM
Sign Up for a Twitter account: https://twitter.com/
Accessing Archived Science Messages:
You can access Archived Science Messages I’ve sent out since March via the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) website. Scroll down to see previous posts.
Science Listserv:
Please encourage others to register for the science listserv and pass along the following registration link:
Register for Science Listserv
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday! And as always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
-Tiffany
Tiffany Neill, M.Ed.
Director of Science Education
Office of Instruction
Oklahoma State Department of Education
P: 405.522.3524
Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
@tiffanyneill
Science Webpage
PE & Health Webpage
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October 31st, 2012 Bob
Greetings Fellow Science Educators!
The day after Halloween is always a challenging one when working with students (and maybe teachers) who have eaten WAY too much sugar. Why not use that to your advantage? Here are a couple of ideas for science activities the day-after Halloween.
Elementary or Middle School: Use Halloween Candy for Classification and Measurement
- Sort and group Halloween candy based on like characteristics. Have students represent their groups in graphs (bar or pie work well).
- Compute the amount of sugar in candy, convert grams to milligrams or even kilograms.
(This idea came from Sara Snodgrass our Elementary Mathematics Director)
Middle School or High School: Use Pumpkins for Claims and Evidence
- Use various tools (hammer, screwdriver,ect.) to puncture pumpkins. Ask students to make claims about which tools made which marks on each of the pumpkins.
- Have students make a claims/evidence T-chart (Example below)
| Claim |
Evidence |
| I claim that Pumpkin A was punctured with the blunt end of the hammer. |
I claim this because the blunt end of the hammer is 3.4 cm in width and 9 out of 10 of the marks on pumpkin A are approximately 3.4 cm in width. |
Tips for conducting:
- Ask local grocery stores or pumpkin patches to donate left over pumpkins.
- Gather unusual tool and place them all in a tool box for students to check out for analysis.
- Name pumpkins: Use historical figures in science
- Allow students to practice making tool marks on pumpkins that you haven’t punctured.
- They can measure tools mark impressions on practice pumpkins and use comparison data for claims and evidence.
Common Core Literacy for Science Connection: Having students focus on making claims and supporting claims with evidence helps students practice argumentative writing skills.
§ WHST. 6-12. 1.b “Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant, accurate data and evidence that demonstrates and understanding of the topic or text, using credible sources.”
- The source is the evidence they collect through scientific processes.
Oklahoma State Department of Education Regional Meetings
Fredrick – (November 7th)- Great Plains Technology Center, 2001 East Gladstone Avenue
· Elementary Teachers (Nov 7) – http://frederick-elementary2012.eventbrite.com
· Secondary Teachers (Nov 7) – http://frederick-secondary2012.eventbrite.com
Tahlequah – (November 12th)- Northeastern State University, 612 N. Grand Ave
· Elementary Teachers – http://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080C4CAEA72BA46-what
· Secondary Teachers -http://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080C4CAEA72BA46-osde
Ardmore – (December 6th)- Southern Oklahoma Technology Center, 2610 Sam Noble Parkway
· Elementary Teachers – http://ardmore-elementary2012.eventbrite.com
· Secondary Teachers – http://ardmore-secondary2012.eventbrite.com
- Follow our discussions on Twitter by searching #KnowC3
Resources for Teachers:
Strategies for Common Core Literacy in Science 6-12: Reading in Science/Technology (RST Standard 2)
http://www.biologycorner.com/2011/11/08/common-core-tips-literacy-in-science/
NSTA’s Scientific and Engineering Practices Series:
The archive recording of the Developing and Using Models web seminar is available here: http://learningcenter.nsta.org/products/symposia_seminars/NGSS/webseminar6.aspx
Upcoming Events:
Register for the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association’s Fall Conference November 10th.
· http://bit.ly/OklahomaScienceTeachersAssociation
Science Fest Registration Opens November 1st:
Registration for ScienceFest Oklahoma, Oklahoma’s one-of-a-kind science education event, opens Thursday, November 1, 2012. ScienceFest is a free event for Oklahoma fourth and fifth graders to attend, and is set to take place on Thursday, April 18, 2013 at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Registration is first-come, first-serve.
Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
- Read about it here .
- Nominations open in November…start considering great 7-12 science teachers now!
Stay Connected:
Follow me on Twitter: @tiffanyneill
Hashtags: #oksde #OKSci #KnowC3 #OKSTEM
Sign Up for a Twitter account: https://twitter.com/
Accessing Archived Science Messages:
You can access Archived Science Messages I’ve sent out since March via the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) website. Scroll down to see previous posts.
Science Listserv:
Please encourage others to register for the science listserv and pass along the following registration link:
Register for Science Listserv
Have a wonderful week! And as always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
-Tiffany
_________________________________________________________________
Tiffany Neill, M.Ed.
Director of Science Education
Office of Instruction
Oklahoma State Department of Education
P: 405.522.3524
Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
@tiffanyneill
Science Webpage
PE & Health Webpage
Posted in TiffanyGram | No Comments »
September 24th, 2012 Bob
This week: (1) Updates on Oklahoma Science Assessments (2) Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers (3) Grant for Teachers (4) Student Opportunities
Greetings Science Educators!
I have received many questions of late about the scientific and engineering practices associated with the Next Generation Science Standards. The scientific and engineering practices were developed to clarify the meaning and application of “Inquiry in the Classroom.”
NSTA is presenting a series of free web seminars explaining the practices and the practical use of them in the classroom. The first web seminar was held on September 11th on “Asking Questions and Defining Problems.”
“Asking Questions and Defining Problems” is a practice that supports Common Core Literacy Standards for Science.
Questioning occurs throughout scientific investigations and drive science. Scientists ask:
· What exists and what happens?
· Why does it happen?
· How does one know?
· How does one communicate phenomena, evidence and explanations?
The webinar provides information pertaining to the practice of Asking Question and Defining Problems (at time point 35:40) and examples of questioning in classroom practice (at time point 44:18 in the web seminar).
You can access the web seminar via the following link: NSTA Webinars on Scientific and Engineering Practices
One of the classroom examples provided in the web seminar focuses on the following lesson outline:
· Start with a driving question: “What is going on inside our bodies that helps us get energy to do the things we do?
- Driving question should be linked to students’ past experiences so…
- students can generate their own questions from the driving question
Are there different types of energy?
- Let the driving question drive the investigation and the activities developed for student exploration of the question.
- During the investigation secondary questions will arise that will continue to drive the investigation or lead to a secondary investigation
- Informational text can be brought in for students to analyze as a means to answer secondary questions that arise from their investigations.
- The investigation as well as any informational text brought in should lead to an explanation for the driving question
The web seminar further explores the application of “Asking Questions and Defining Problems” in a science classroom through additional examples and research. I believe many of you will find that you utilize this structure in your classroom already. However, I hope you will find the information valuable as you begin to explore this practice further.
1. Science Assessment Memo: Latest Updates on Oklahoma Science Assessments
· Please see the Attached memo regarding the most recent information pertaining to science assessments School Year 2012-2013
2. Free Earth Science Workshop for Educators: More! Rock in Your Head
· October 16th, 2012, OKC, OK
· The application and details can be accessed via: Rock in Your Head
3. Project Learning Tree & Project Wet-Claremore OK
· See attached flyer
4. Monarch Migration and Butterfly Festival
· See attached flyer
5. Environmental License Tag Grant:
6. Application for 2013 NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing
- The award honors young women who are active and interested in computing and technology
- The application and details can be accessed via: NCWIT Award
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have.
Have a great day!
-Tiffany
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September 12th, 2012 Bob
Greetings Science Educators!
I hope your week is going well! We have many exciting things going on in our state! First, I would like to welcome our new Directors of Mathematics Education at the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Levi Patrick will serve as our Director of Secondary Mathematics and Sara Snodgrass will serve as our Director of Elementary Mathematics. You can read more about Sara and Levi here.
I will be working very closely with both Levi and Sara on our STEM team here at OSDE as we begin to think about the connections between mathematics and science. Please feel free to contact either one with questions you might have concerning mathematics.
1. State Textbook Committee Review of Science Materials
- The State Textbook Committee begins their review of science materials in 2013.
- They are approved in November, 2013 for purchase in the spring of 2014.
- More information is available at: www.oktextbooks.state.ok.us
2. OSTA Fall Conference
3. Oklahoma BioBlitz October 5th and 6th
4. Blue Thumb Volunteers Training Opportunity September 29th and 30th
- Oxley Nature Center, Sunfish Room, 6700 Mohawk Boulevard, Tulsa, OK 74115
- 8:30-4:30
- To learn more, go to: www.conservation.ok.gov and click Blue Thumb in the upper left corner.
- For more information or to register, contact Cheryl Cheadle, 918-398-1804
5. Air Force Association Classroom Grants for Teachers Due October 17th
6. Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
- Read about it here.
- Nominations open in November…start considering great 7-12 math teachers now!
7. We’re Revising the Science Website
- If you have ideas about what you’d like to be able to do/find/see/link to/download, please let me know!
Have a great week!
-Tiffany
Tiffany Neill, M.Ed.
Director of Science Education
Office of Instruction
Oklahoma State Department of Education
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August 23rd, 2012 Bob
Welcome back science educators!
I hope you enjoyed the summer and found opportunities to both relax and become rejuvenated! I had the great pleasure of meeting several amazing educators through the Math Science Partnership Grants this summer. I participated in the “Math Amazing Races” in downtown Tulsa and took a tour of an amazing small aircraft facility in Ada.
I know many of you found opportunities to learn this summer and I thank you for your willingness to do so and take back to your students!
I also spent the summer gaining information and experiences that I look forward to sharing with science educators in the state this year!
Here are just a few of the things I’d like to share:
Science Matters Online:
Science Matters Online provides several short videos showcasing 5E lessons from Picture Perfect Science. The videos allow educators to see other educators conducting lessons with students and reflecting on the power of those lessons in the classroom. The lessons also focus on the integration of literacy in science.
The lessons are geared towards elementary. However, the videos can serve as a powerful tool for educators K-12.
Click the following link to access the videos: http://sciencemattersonline.com/videos-2
The Teaching Channel:
The Teaching Channel currently provides 120 videos pertaining to the implementation of Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Some of the videos provide an overview of CCSS. However, the majority of the videos provide exemplar strategies for classroom practice.
I strongly encourage you to check out a few of the videos! I have utilized many of the strategies showcased in the videos for professional development and teacher discussion this summer!
You can access the videos by clicking on the following link: https://www.teachingchannel.org/
Once on the webpage, scroll down to Common Core on the left side.
Oklahoma Science Teachers Association:
I also had the pleasure of working with several members of the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA). OSTA shares valuable resources through their OSTA listserv and they serve as a support system to science educators around the state! OSTA has many exciting opportunities for educators in the upcoming year that you won’t want to miss out on!
Find out more and join through: http://www.oklahomascienceteachersassociation.org/
I will continue to share resources throughout the year and I would welcome any resources you might have for me to share on the science listserv.
Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Review Update:
Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Committees will meet in the spring of 2013
We wanted to update you on the proposed timeline for adoption of the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards. The Oklahoma State Department of Education has decided to begin the process of Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Revision in the spring of 2013. This will not impact the schedule for science textbook adoption this year. Committees will still be selected through an application process. Applications for the Oklahoma C3 Science Standards Committees will be distributed through the science listserv and on the OSDE website.
If you have any questions regarding the process, please feel free to contact me at 405-522-3524 or Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov .
Resources for Teachers:
New Teacher Tips from the National Science Teachers Association
NSTA shared several helpful tips for new teachers in their free newsletter this month bit.ly/NXi8T3. I encourage you to share this resource with new science teachers in your district. Many of the tips provided are great for veteran teachers as well.
Oklahoma Science Teachers Association (OSTA) Fall Conference:
November 10th
The OSTA Fall Conference, “Saving the World Through Science “will take place Saturday, November 10th at the University of Central Oklahoma.
· Submit your proposal to present. This year all proposals will be submitted using our convenient on-line form. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE DEADLINE! Space is limited.
o All program presenters must register for the conference.
· Register for the Conference at the following link: Register Securely Online
Free Admission for Educators to 5 OKC Attractions:
September 15th 9:00 a.m -1:00 p.m.
Calling all teachers and principals! You’re invited to get a Sneak Peek in Oklahoma City’s Adventure District. For one day only, visit five Adventure District locations to learn about educational programs and speak with representatives about educational resources. Oklahoma City’s Adventure District, located at the crossroads of I-35 and I-44, has it all for you – all in one
Visit all five attractions and receive Free Admission for you and your family for the remainder of the day to the location of your choice (total of four free admissions including teacher).
Participating locations:
- Remington Park
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Oklahoma City Zoo
- ASA National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum
- Science Museum Oklahoma
Visit http://www.okcadventure.com/teachers-sneak-peek for pre-registration and complete details.
Grant Opportunities for Teachers:
Environmental Education Grant Opportunity
The Oklahoma Association of Environmental Educators (OKAEE) is partnering with the Environmental Education Association (EEANM) in the Small Grants Program. Members of OKAEE have been involved with the design and implementation of this program and will be assisting with the review process for any applications from Oklahoma.
Attached you will find the RFP for Region 6 and the application form if you are interested in the program. If you have questions, feel free to contact:
Karla Beatty I 405-521-6788 I karla.beatty@conservation.ok.gov
First Robotics Team Information Sessions and OSDE Grants
First Robotics is hosting information sessions in Edmond and Tulsa (see attached memo) for anyone interested in starting a First Robotics Team at their school. The information session is also designed to provide information to mentors of First Robotics Teams.
Also, the Oklahoma State Board of Education will provide grants up to $5,000 per school to facilitate recent start-up and existing team opportunities. Grant applications and further details can be found at http://ok.gov/sde/node/4024
Opportunities for Students:
Air Force Association Cyber Patriot Competition
CyberPatriot is the premier national high school cyber defense competition designed to excite, educate, and motivate the next generation of cyber defenders critical to our nation’s future security. The competition has a tournament-style tiered structure with a series of web-based competition rounds and culminating in the national championship in Washington, D.C. in March 2013.
Interested students can attend “free” classes on Saturdays at Rose State College during the fall semester. This is truly a remarkable opportunity for students! You can find out more about the competition and its benefits through the links provided below:
· The home page: http://www.uscyberpatriot.org/Pages/default.aspx
· Benefits for Schools: http://www.uscyberpatriot.org/HowYouFit/schools.aspx
· Information for Parents: http://www.uscyberpatriot.org/HowYouFit/parents.aspx
· Information for Teachers: http://www.uscyberpatriot.org/HowYouFit/coaches.aspx
· Registration Link: http://www.uscyberpatriot.org/Register/default.aspx
· Important dates: https://www.uscyberpatriot.org/CP5/dates.aspx
If you have questions, please feel free to contact:
Dr. Dave Wagie 405-815-5258 I Dave_Wagie@odoc.state.ok.us
STEM Competition for High School Students
Siemens Foundation, in partnership with the College Board, is sponsoring the Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology, which recognizes remarkable talent early on, fostering individual growth for high school students who are willing to challenge themselves through science research. Through this competition, students have an opportunity to achieve national recognition for science research projects that they complete in high school. Students or teams of students can enter to win scholarships of up to $100,000 for their work. Registration is open. Visit the College Board website for more information. The deadline for project submission is Monday, October 1, 2012, at 5:00 pm EST.
Again, I welcome you back to the start of another school year! Your efforts will certainly have long-lasting impacts on the students who pass through your doors! I look forward to working with you this year and sharing in your successes!
As, always please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.
-Tiffany
Tiffany Neill
Director of Science
Oklahoma State Department of Education
Office of Instruction
Tiffany.Neill@sde.ok.gov
Phone: 405-522-3524
Fax: 405-521-2971
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