STEM Opportunities Open to Educators This Summer

Several STEM-related opportunities are open to educators this summer and fall. See below for details:

• Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences: The MCPS Office of Outdoor Environmental Education Programs (OEEP) at the Smith Center is partnering with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) to offer several courses for teachers of all levels and subjects. Courses are focused on the local environment, the greater Chesapeake Bay watershed, and actions to have a more positive impact on these ecosystems. Special focus areas will include climate change and environmental justice. Courses run for five days, with some based in Montgomery County and some at one of CBF’s residential centers. More information, including how to register, is here.
  
• Chesapeake Bay Trust's Youth Environmental Education Grant Program: The Youth Environmental Education Grant Program provides accessible funds to schools, organizations and agencies for youth environmental education opportunities and educator support.
  • This program funds projects that involve youth and students investigating a local environmental issue, problem or phenomenon through research culminating in developing solutions and taking action in their school or community. Funds can cover a multitude of items, including costs for field trips, fieldwork, transportation, substitute fees and project supplies. This grant program also aims to build educator capacity and comfort in leading environmental education programs by funding the attendance to or development of professional development trainings. Applicants can request funds from one of four tracks that offer up to $5,000 or up to $10,000 in funding. More information is available on the CBT's Environmental Education Grant Program webpage or by emailing Jaren Baluyot. Applications are open until Thursday, June 27.
• The S. Geological Survey (USGS) is offering in-person opportunity for educators in Grades 5-12, to be held at the USGS headquarters in Reston, Va. on July 1-2. Through digital explorations, such as simulations, mapping and graphing, as well as direct data collection, educators will work with USGS staff, scientists and fellows to engage students in authentic environmental investigations. Learn more and submit an application here.
  
  
• The Gains in the Education of Mathematics and Science (GEMS) program at Fort Detrick brings local students to the cutting-edge world of science for the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command. Teachers are needed to work within the program. Applicants should be licensed with a master’s degree, preferably in a STEM field. Ideally, candidates would have experience in a supervisory role. Applications close Friday, June 7. Apply here.