Advanced STEM Service Learning Workshop 2/13/14 in Palmdale

MEEC, with generous grant funding from Boeing, will be offering an Advanced STEM Service Learning Workshop for teachers of grades 3-12 in the High Desert on Thursday, 13 February 2014, from 4:30 to 7:30pm, at the AVUHSD Palmdale Conference Center in Palmdale.  The workshop will show how to integrate CCSS and NGSS into STEM service learning projects, using hands-on activities.  Attendees will receive a free copy of the resource book Integrating Scientific Practices and Service Learning: Engaging Students in STEM ($35 value), and dinner will be provided. 

Register by 6 February 2014 by contacting Samantha Murray, MEEC Program Specialist, at (760) 245-1661 x 6717 or e-mail at smurray@mdaqmd.ca.gov .

Other sessions will be available on 29 January in Victorville, and on 5 February in Yucca Valley.  See Advanced STEM Service Learning Workshop for further details.

AHORA STEM Day Held at Eastside High School

Co-sponsored by the Antelope Valley Union High School District and LATINO Magazine, approximately 150 students of under-represented populations in STEM from AV, Eastside, Knight, and Palmdale High Schools attended the AHORA Student Day at Eastside High School on 16 December 2013.  Students heard from two panels, the first on careers and majors in STEM, including Lupe Delgado, manufacturing engineer from Northrop Grumman, Katya Guevara, a UC Davis freshman and recent grad from KHS, Manny Sanchez, a 40-year veteran engineer from Lockheed Martin, and Mike Huggins, Chief of Propulsions Division at AFRL/EAFB.  The second panel, "The Table of Brotherhood," addressing diversity issues, was comprised of  Eric Peterson, General Motors VP, Joseph Velasquez an attorney and founder of OjoOido, Sandra Johnson of the Lancaster City Council and UAV, and Hernando Marroquin, a prominent local businessman.  The MC for the event was Alfredo J. Estrada, Editor of LATINO Magazine, with additional addresses by Lou Gonzales of AV Chevy, and Dr. David Vierra, AVUHSD Superintendent.  Students interacted during Q&A sessions with the panelists and by speaking with local STEM professionals during breaks.

Eric Peterson, Joseph Velasquez, Sandra Johnson, Hernando Marroquin
address students from the "Table of Brotherhood"



Lupe Delgado, Katya Guevara, Manny Sanchez, and Mike Huggins
explain the benefits of STEM education and take student questions.

 

Upcoming LA County Office of Education STEM Trainings

Thanks to Anthony  Quan of the STEM Unit at LACOE for the following info:

STEM in the Elementary Classroom (http://lacoe.k12oms.org/1542-76698)

Jan 8, 2014 | LACOE EC 107 | $75 | 8:00am-3:30pm

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Mathematics and Next Generation Science Standards were designed to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn in mathematics and science. This calls to attention the need for students to begin working toward 21st Century skills to become better prepared for STEM related careers and experiences. This workshop is a blend between the use of technology for learning and face-to-face experiences.

This one-day training is designed to provide participants with the following knowledge, skills, and resources:

• A brief overview of the STEM Initiative;
• An understanding of the depth of knowledge required of students;
• An overview of the Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards;
• Lessons infused with the Standards focused on modeling;
• Effective instructional strategies to increase student proficiency with the standards.

Implications of Common Core State Standards on Next Generation Science Standards (http://lacoe.k12oms.org/1542-78444)

Jan 22 & 23, 2014 | Castaic Union School District | $175| 8:00am-3:30pm

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Next Generation Science Standards were designed to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn in mathematics. The Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects calls attention to the importance of informational text, expository writing, and text complexity in preparing students for college, career, and citizenship in the 21st Century.

This two-day training is designed to provide participants with the following knowledge, skills, and resources:

• A brief overview of the Common Core State Standards for Math and English Language Arts;
• An understanding of the depth of knowledge required of students;
• An overview of the Next Generation Science Standards;
• Lessons infused with the Standards focused on modeling; and
• Effective instructional strategies to increase student proficiency with the standards.

 Implementing Common Core State Standards Math in the K-2 Classroom (http://lacoe.k12oms.org/1542-76617)

Jan 13, 14 & 24, 2014 | San Jose Charter Academy, West Covina | $250| 8:00am-3:30pm

8:00am-8:30am Networking and Continental Breakfast
8:30am-3:30pm Workshop

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Mathematics were designed to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn in mathematics. It is considered robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need in preparation for college, career and citizenship in the 21st Century. Implementation of the Mathematics Standards requires a shift in classroom instruction and assessment practices.

This three-day training is designed to provide participants with the following knowledge, skills, and resources:

• An understanding of the Standards of Mathematical Content and Practice and implications for teaching and learning;
• Requirements for student success with assessments aligned to the standards;
• An understanding of the depth of knowledge required of students;
• Lessons infused with the Standards of Mathematical Practice with a focus on modeling;
• Effective instructional strategies to increase student proficiency with the standards;
• The progressions of each domain of the standards across the grades; and
• Implications for English Learners and other special needs populations.

Implementing Common Core State Standards Math in the 3-5 Classroom (http://lacoe.k12oms.org/1542-76618)

Feb 4, 5 & 24, 2014 | LACOE EC 281 | $250| 8:00am-3:30pm

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Mathematics were designed to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn in mathematics. It is considered robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need in preparation for college, career and citizenship in the 21st Century. Implementation of the Mathematics Standards requires a shift in classroom instruction and assessment practices.

This three-day training is designed to provide participants with the following knowledge, skills, and resources:

• An understanding of the Standards of Mathematical Content and Practice and implications for teaching and learning;
• Requirements for student success with assessments aligned to the standards;
• An understanding of the depth of knowledge required of students;
• Lessons infused with the Standards of Mathematical Practice with a focus on modeling;
• Effective instructional strategies to increase student proficiency with the standards;
• The progressions of each domain of the standards across the grades; and
• Implications for English Learners and other special needs populations.

 Implementing Common Core State Standards Math in the 6-8 Classroom (http://lacoe.k12oms.org/1542-76619)

Feb 6, 7 & 27, 2014 | LACOE EC 202 | $250| 8:00am-3:30pm

 

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Mathematics were designed to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn in mathematics. It is considered robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need in preparation for college, career and citizenship in the 21st Century. Implementation of the Mathematics Standards requires a shift in classroom instruction and assessment practices.

 This three-day training is designed to provide participants with the following knowledge, skills, and resources:

• An understanding of the Standards of Mathematical Content and Practice and implications for teaching and learning;
• Requirements for student success with assessments aligned to the standards;
• An understanding of the depth of knowledge required of students;
• Lessons infused with the Standards of Mathematical Practice with a focus on modeling;
• Effective instructional strategies to increase student proficiency with the standards;
• Options for eighth-grade courses and the CCSS assessments; and
• Implications for English Learners and other special needs populations.

 CCSS and TMEL:  Teaching Math to English Learners 6-12 (http://lacoe.k12oms.org/1542-76712)

Feb 20, 21, Mar 14, 2014 | LACOE EC 202 | $250| 8:00am-3:30pm

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Mathematics were designed to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn in mathematics. These sessions provide participants with effective research-based differentiation strategies that ensure access to standards-based elementary mathematics for all students, specifically English Learners.

The Region XI California Network will share materials and strategies that can be used district-wide to improve English learner mathematics outcomes.

This three-day training is designed to provide participants with the following knowledge, skills, and resources:

• Develop an understanding of the implications of the Standards for Mathematical Practice for teaching English learners;
• Build connections between prior knowledge and the mathematics standards using multiple representations to foster comprehension;
• Discuss flexible groupings of students for maximum use of language as a tool for learning mathematical content;
• Make use of CELDT data and language development performance indicators to differentiate mathematics instruction and bridge to the Common Core Standards for Mathematical practice; and
• Promote 21st Century skills by addressing communication, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and making connections across and between disciplines.

AV Science Olympiad Training Dates

Additional dates have been scheduled for training for teams registered to compete in the Aerospace Valley Science Olympiad (event date 8 March 2014 at Antelope Valley College):

11 January 2014 - Discovery - earth science training;
18 January 2014 - AVC - anatomy and biology training;
25 January 2014 (re-scheduled from 12/14/13) - AVC - engineering events training;
8 February 2014 - AVC - chemistry events training.

For additional details, see AV Science Olympiad 2014

Buick Achievers Scholarship Applications Open 1/6-2/28/14

Sponsored by General Motors, the Buick Achievers Scholarship application period will be open from 6 January through 28 February 2014.  The scholarships, which focus on automotive and related STEM fields, offer $25,000 renewable funding for 100 students.  For further information, visit Buick Achievers Scholarship .

LEGO Children's Fund Grant Application Due by 1/15/14

The LEGO Children's Fund offers grants, typically between $500 and $5,000 (average $3,000), for collaborative efforts of 501(c)(3) and educational agencies, particularly in support of early childhood education related to creativity, and technology and communication projects that advance learning opportunities.  While preference is given to efforts in CT and Western MA, grants are available nationwide.  Applications are due quarterly on the 15th of January, April, July, and October.  For more information and to download the application form, visit LEGO Children's Fund Grant .

Project Lead the Way Conference Early Bird Registration Open Until 12/13/13

The third annual Project Lead the Way statewide conference will be held on 20-21 February 2014 at the Sacramento Sheraton Grand Hotel.  Early bird registration is available for $150 until Friday, 13 December 2013 (increase to $175 on 14 December).  The fee includes snack and cocktail reception Thursday, and breakfast and lunch Friday along with the conference sessions.  Hotel rooms are available for $150 per night at the Sheraton, after registering for the conference.  For further information and to register, visit PLTW Statewide Conference Registration .

USA Science and Engineering Festival in Washington, DC 4/25-27/14 to Feature Mike Rowe

"Dirty Jobs" host Mike Rowe will host a MikeRoweWORKS Pavilion at the USA Science and Engineering Festival in Washington, DC on 25-27 April 2014.  Expected to draw approximately 350,000 people at the only national science festival - which is designed to entice students by STEM - the pavilion will spotlight the numerous skilled trade and technical careers available to young people.  Profoundly Disconnected - Rowe at USA Science and Engineering Festival

Google Code-In 2013 Open 11/18/13 to 1/5/14

Google Code-In allows pre-university students ages 13-17 to register, beginning 18 November 2013,  then complete one or more coding -related tasks to compete for prizes.  The tasks include coding, documentation, outreach/research, quality assurance, or user interface items; students receive 1 point for each task which is successfully completed, with a certificate being awarded for each, and a t-shirt for completing 3 tasks.  At the end of the contest period, each of 10 mentor organization can choose 2 grand prize winners who will then be eligible to receive a trip to Google's Mountain View campus, a tour, meet with engineers, and a fun day in San Francisco.  For more details and to register for the competition, which ends 5 January 2014, visit Google Code-In 2013

STEM Makes a Difference in Children's Lives

First Book, in partnership with Lockheed Martin, has recently published an infographic that shows how STEM can make a difference in children's lives, and consequently fill a projected 8 million STEM jobs by 2018.  First Book Blog - STEM Infographic

#include Fellowships for Coding Begun by She++ at Stanford - Register by 12/11/13

She++, a coding outreach by Stanford University students, has expanded its #include fellowships for high school females outside of Palo Alto.  Students who register by no later than 11 December 2013 can be paired with a college advisor, and then will be expected to lead technology change in their neighborhoods through a Launch Kit.  They will also gain the opportunity to attend the #include Summit at Stanford 3-5 April 2014.  For more information, visit She++ Inspiring Women to Empower Computer Science .

Pinterest "Science Stuff"

 Here are a number of Pinterest boards for "science stuff" for all grade levels:  Science Stuff Pinterest Boards

GoldieBlox Commercial Goes Viral

A new commercial for GoldieBlox engineering toys for girls, featuring the Beastie Boys melody "Girls" is going viral.  Pointing up that girls are "not just princesses," the commercial shows girls creating a Rube Goldberg device.  GoldieBlox Princess Machine  Founded by Debbie Sterling, GoldieBlox was designed to get more girls interested in STEM careers.  The music video is currently a finalist for a Super Bowl commercial spot.  GoldieBlox Video Demands Change - Huffington Post

Lake Arrowhead School Hosts Boat Challenge

As reported in the Mountain News, students from Valley of Enchantment Elementary School in Lake Arrowhead recently held a boat-building challenge for 5th grade students.  Using only duct tape, PVC pipe and 2-litre plastic bottles, students were required to design and build "boats" that would carry their teachers, using paddles, in what turned out to be the very chilly waters of Lake Gregory on 6 November 2013.  Ten boats were in the competition, attended by students and about 40 parents cheering them on.  Due to the continuing success of the event, the school hopes to expand it to other classes next year.  VOE 5th Graders Float Their Boats

AV Science Olympiad Training Schedule for 1/25/14

UPDATE:  Due to a water main break at AVC on 12/13, this training is being re-scheduled for 25 January 2014.  Training will be offered on Saturday, 14 December 2013, at Antelope Valley College for teams competing in the AV Science Olympiad, Divisions B and C.

The schedule for the training is as follows:

8-11 a.m.
Division B: Robo-Cross, Wheeled Vehicle and Rotor Egg Drop
Division C: Scrambler, MagLev and Bungee Drop
 

11 a.m.-12 p.m. Open Lab both divisions

Please RSVP at your earliest convenience seating is limited. 

 THERE IS NO COST TO ATTEND THIS TRAINING.

REGISTER AT THE LINK PROVIDED HERE: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1AmqUvCyFL-IZ7x5rjofkIrWdQeRPI-mcwNcDjWmff54/viewform

 REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS December 6  or until event is full. 

 For more information, contact the office at Aerospace Valley Regional Science Olympiad, 661 722 6300 x6024

CCSS Standards of Math Practice Train-the-Trainers PD on 1/27-28/14

The California Math Project, in partnership with CDE, will be offering a training session for those who will lead math professional development regarding the new Common Core Standards of Math Practice.  The two-day session, which will cost $200, will be held on 27-28 January 2014 at the DoubleTree at Ontario.  For further information and to register, visit Standards of Math Practice Professional Learning Module Training .

California STEM Symposium a Premier Event

Approximately 2,500 people gathered in Sacramento on 18-19 November 2013 for the first California STEM Symposium.  Keynote speakers included such notables as Sugata Mitra, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Geena Davis, Kenneth Wesson, and retired astronaut Jose Hernandez.  State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson and Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla also addressed the crowd, as did students Laura Gouillon and Thomas Suarez.  Deputy Superintendent Lupita Cortez Alcala served as mistress of ceremonies for the conference.  Nearly 150 breakout sessions were offered on a variety of STEM topics, including a presentation on early childhood STEM Success by Stephanie Lester of Lancaster School District, and roundtable presentations on K-8 STEM outreach by Andy Glatfelter of Discovery School in Lancaster, and by Joel Beckmann (National Defendse Eduction Program) and Diane Walker (AVUHSD) on Creating and Expanding Vibrant STEM Pathways.  SacBee NBA Great Promotes STEM Education

Astronaut Jose Hernandez speaks of his journey
to become a Mission Specialist on STS128



Sugata Mitra explains how Schools in the
Cloud have become a reality in rural India

 

US Student Math Scores Still Lagging

The Nation's Report Card issued yesterday (11-7-13) shows only modest gains for US students in math over scores reported in 2011, as well as a persistence of the achievement gap for students of color.  Forty-two percent (42%) of fourth graders, and 35% of eighth graders tested at or above proficient in math, up 1-2 points since the last administration of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) two years ago.  There have been more significant gains since the test scores were tracked in the 1990's, with higher gains in math than reading.

"There was a 26-point gap . . . between how white and African American 4th graders performed on the math section. In eighth grade reading, white students outperformed Hispanic students by 21 points. 

"Among the other results:

"-More boys than girls scored at or above the proficient level for both grades in math. In reading, more girls than boys scored at or above that mark.

"-Twenty-five out of the 52 states or jurisdictions measured had a higher average score in 2013 than in 2011 in at least one subject and grade.

"-Five states had a lower score than two years ago in at least one subject and grade: Massachusetts, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and South Dakota.

"-Hispanic students were the only racial or ethnic group that saw improvements in math scores in both fourth and eighth grades; Asian/Pacific Islanders students had the highest percentage of students performing at or above the proficient level in both math and reading."

 

AP - "Not Good Enough: Math, Reading Scores Up Slightly"

Alternative Plan for Middle School Science Approved by California Board of Education

As reported by EdSource, in a move that surprised many, the California Department of Education introduced a proposal allowing districts to determine whether they would offer an integrated or separate method to teach middle school students the new Next Generation Science Standards.  Although the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, a former teacher, preferred the integrated method providing for some of each scientific discipline to be taught each year, based upon feedback from teachers, the State Board of Education approved the alternative plan  at its November 6-7, 2013 meetings.  The alternative plan was also supported by the Science Expert Panel convened by the CDE.  State board backs off integrated science standards in middle school 

Earthwatch Institute Ignite Student Science Award Applications Due by 12/9/13

Students in 10th or 11th grade in Los Angeles County are eligible to apply for one of 24 Ignite Science Awards.  Funded by the Durfee Foundation, successful applicants can participate in an all-expenses paid Earthwatch expedition.  In addition to the application, two teacher nomination letters are required.  Applications are due by no later than 9 December 2013.  For further information, visit Earthwatch Student Fellowships .

New Survey Shows 2- and 4-Year STEM Degrees In Demand

A recent survey of talent recruiters at Fortune 1000 companies released by Bayer indicates that holders of two-year STEM degrees are just as much in demand as those with four-year STEM degrees, and that the trend will continue for at least 10 years; half of the respondents said that two-year degree holders would be more in demand than four-year counterparts.  A majority of the recruiters noted that more STEM positions are being created than non-STEM positions, yet many remain unfilled due to a lack of qualified applicants and/or mismatched skill sets.  ACTE Policy Watch Blog: STEM in Demand

Science Standards Focus Group Members Sought - Applications Due by 12/2/13

The California Department of Education is seeking members of five focus groups relating to the drafting of frameworks for the Next Generation Science Standards adopted in September of 2013.  "Curriculum frameworks provide guidance to teachers, administrators, and parents on how a standards-based curriculum is implemented in the classroom."  Completed applications are due by no later than 3:00pm on 2 December 2013.  The application and further information is available at Curriculum Frameworks - Focus Group Applications .

Week to Focus on Coding for Students

In conjunction with code.org , Discovery School in Lancaster is planning activities to celebrate Computer Science Education Week for 9-13 December 2013.  Every student at the school will receive one hour of instruction in coding during the week, using projects such as Scratch and Alice.  Additionally, Lancaster School District IT Director Rebecca Cooksey will be giving STEM Academy students an overview of hardware, software and networking/server issues.  Teacher Mechelle Reynolds says, "I am passionate about [computer science], because I started coding in [high school] and I like to get the word out about how needy this field has become."

For more information about Computer Science Education Week, visit Computer Science Education Week 

MSET Hosts Tour of Local STEM School Programs for Community

On Wednesday, 30 October 2013, the Antelope Valley Math Science Engineering and Technology (MSET) Consortium, along with the Antelope Valley Board of Trade, Antelope Valley Union High School District, and Antelope Valley College, sponsored a tour of Palmdale STEM school programs for local community partners.  The tour visited Antelope Valley College's Palmdale Center, The Palmdale Aerospace Academy, Palmdale High School's FAST and Health Careers Academies, and Knight High School's Digital Design & Engineering Academy.  Approximately 35 government officials, business and industry, and education community members attended the event, which included presentations and a working lunch. The response from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with a call for future tours to be made available regularly to other local school programs.

California Senator Steve Knight joins community members

 touring The Palmdale Aerospace Academy

Students of the FAST Academy at Palmdale HS work on simple machines in their PLTW lab

Health Careers  Academy students at Palmdale HS learn about measuring injectible medications

Knight HS Digital Design & Engineering Academy Coordinator James Stockdale explains the MakerSpace to tour participants

Local AV Science Olympiad Training

Antelope Valley College and the Science Olympiad Committee are offering training sessions for both middle school and high school teams registered for the March 2014 event.  Following an initial training on a variety of Science Olympiad events held at Antelope Valley College on 19 October and at Joe Walker Middle School on 2 November 2013, sessions are scheduled to be held at AVC on 14 December 2013, 18 January 2014, and 8 February 2014.  Smaller sessions may also be held at area school sites.  For further information, contact Jamie Jones at AVC at hsistemcoop@gmail.com .  Additional information about the competition can be accessed at AV Science Olympiad .

10-19-13 Science Olympiad training at AVC

AV Science Olympiad Coaches' Meeting 9-11-13

MEEC Environmental Education Grant Proposals Due by 10/31

MEEC is offering teachers in its service area the opportunity to receive a mini-grant for environmental education classroom project materials.

"Interested teachers should submit a letter describing the proposed project and desired materials, the project/materials’ environmental component and how the project will address educational standards, in one to two pages maximum. Letter must also contain a timeline for project implementation and a budget or cost breakout based on the applicant’s research of actual material costs, including shipping and handling, if applicable. Labor costs are not eligible for funding. Projects must be implemented/materials must be used in classrooms located in the High Desert portion of San Bernardino County, the Antelope Valley or the Palo Verde Valley of Riverside County. Applicants must also teach within these jurisdictions.

"Funded projects must be completed/purchased by June 18, 2014. Average grant amount will vary from $100 to $500, but may be higher. Individual award amounts to be determined by MEEC. Only one grant will be awarded per teacher per school year.

"Application deadline is October 31, 2013. Proposals may be mailed to MEEC/EE School Mini-Grants, 14306 Park Ave, Victorville, CA 92392, e-mailed to smurray@mdaqmd.ca.gov or faxed to (760) 241-6271. For questions, contact Samantha Murray, MEEC Program Specialist at (760) 245-1661 ext. 6717."

Antelope Valley Hosts STEMPosium 10/1/13

Antelope Valley College (AVC), Cerro Coso College, Cal State Long Beach, Antelope Valley Union High School District (AVUHSD), the Greater Antelope Valley Economic Alliance (GAVEA), and the AV Board of Trade sponsored the 2^nd Annual Greater Antelope Valley STEMposium on Tuesday, 1 October 2013.  State and local dignitaries welcomed nearly 200 regional business and community members and educators in attendance at the event, which was held at The Hellenic Center in Lancaster.  

The STEMposium participants heard an engaging keynote address by LTG Ellen M. Pawlikowski (USAF), Commander of the Space and Missile Systems Center at the LA Air Force Base, on STEM as an American competitive advantage, as well as from Dr. Elaine Shen of Beacon Economics on STEM Workforce trends.  Other presentations included Dr. Tom O’Neil of AVC on connections between CTE and STEM, a STEM Academy Showcase by Betsy McKinstry and academy coordinators and students from the AVUHSD, as well as panel discussions by area education, industry, and young STEM professionals.  Display tables were staffed by Joe Walker Middle School robotics, Palmdale HS Health Careers Academy, PHS Falcon Academy of Sustainable Technologies, AV High School’s Green Enterprise Academy, and Knight HS Digital Design & Engineering Academy.

The 2^nd Annual Greater AV STEMposium was partially funded by a US Dept. Of Education HSI STEM grant. Christos Valiotis: Project Director-661-722-6300 x6024

Siemens "We Can Change the World Challenge" Now Open for K-12 Teams

The Siemens Foundation and Discovery Education have announced the opening of call for entries to the annual "We Can Change the World Challenge" for K-12 student teams.  Students, paired with a teacher advisor (part- or full-time school employee), work to find a green solution to an environmental issue in their classroom, school or community.  Once registered as a team, there are resources and web-based curriculum tools available for use.  Winning teams and schools are eligible to receive part of a total prize package of $300,000 worth of scholarships, savings bonds, school grants, adventure trips, school assemblies and more. 

The deadline for entries is 4 March 2014, and winners will be notified in April of 2014.  For more information and to register, go to www.wecanchange.com . 

STEMConnector and TeenLife Media Publish STEM Programs Guide

STEMConnector has teamed up with TeenLife Media to produce a 2013 Guide to STEM Programs which is available for review on-line and for download.  The Guide includes a directory of STEM colleges and programs, a list of the top 10 paying majors, as well as a variety of student and professional profiles and articles related to STEM studies and careers.  Visit http://teenlife.uberflip.com/i/156018.

Fordham Institute Report Finds that Next Generation Science Standards Not Adequately Aligned With Common Core Math

According to an article in the Education Week "Curriculum Matters" blog, a recent report released by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, comparing the new Next Generation Science Standards with the new Common Core State Standards for math, opines that there is insufficient alignment with the math standards by grade level, as well as lack of specificity in the math skills required for the science expectations.  While Appendix L of the NGSS does outline the connections more explicitly according to the study's principal analyst, Prof. W. Stephen Wilson of Johns Hopkins, there are still shortcomings.  The study also contains a state-by-state comparison of existing science standards with the NGSS (although California is not included).  http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/curriculum/2013/08/report_science_standards_fall_.html

Public comments to the Fordham report are invited, and the report is available for download.  http://www.edexcellence.net/publications/commentary-on-appendix-l.html

FIRST LEGO League Challenge 2013-2014 to Design Solution for Natural Disaster

FIRST LEGO League has announced its team challenge for the upcoming year.  #Nature's Fury will have global teen robotics teams work on identifying a community which could experience a natural disaster, identifying a problem which occurs in the wake of a natural disaster, creating an innovative solution to the problem, and sharing the problem and solution with others.  Solutions will be presented by team members at tournaments, including LEGO robot missions and multimedia presentations.  For more information about the challenge, visit FIRST LEGO League 2013 Nature's Fury Challenge.

Enviro-Bus Bucks Field Trip Grants Now Available - Application Deadline 10/30/13

MEEC has announced that the annual Enviro-Bus Bucks field trip grant applications are now available for teachers in the High Desert areas of San Bernardino and northern Los Angeles County, as well as Riverside County's Palo Verde Valley- the deadline to submit the on-line application is 30 October 2013.  No handwritten applications will be accepted; the applications must be accompanied by transportation agency cost quotes (if not available through your school district, then proof of mileage and hourly or mileage rates for the transportation agency). 

To download the 2013/2014 EBB online Application form, Rules & Guidelines, and available Host Sites, please go to: www.meeconline.com (green box.)  Grant recipients will be notified between 15 and 30 November 2013.

Services for Astronaut Gordon Fullerton Scheduled

Local retired NASA astronaut Gordon Fullerton passed away at age 76 after a lengthy illness on 21 August 2013.  Gordon's long and storied career included two space shuttle missions during his tenure as an astronaut from 1969-1986.  He then returned to NASA Dryden where he served as a NASA test pilot for 22 years, and later as Associate Director for Flight Operations and chief of the flight crew branch prior to his retirement in 2007.  Gordon consistently appeared and interacted with students and educators at NASA events such as Apollo's 40th anniversary celebration, and he was a perennial favorite at Salute to Youth, flying in with his NASA F-18.  He will be dearly missed.

Gordon with NASA workers and students at Salute to Youth

 

A full biography of Fullerton is available online at:   Dryden Pilot Biographies - C. Gordon Fullerton

Video highlights of Fullerton's career are available on-line at:  Dryden People

 

A funeral mass is scheduled for Gordon at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Lancaster at 10:00am on Saturday, 24 August 2013.

YELC Applications Due by 9/12/13 (Deadline Extended)

Remember to register your student teams for the Mojave/Antelope Valley Youth Environmental Leadership Conference sponsored by MEEC on 5 October 2013.  The featured speaker is once again Joel Greene; grants and transportation stipends may be available.  Applications are due by 5  12 September 2013 at 5:00pm.  Download the team application at www.meeconlinecom/students/yelc .  Submit Completed Applications:  MEEC/YELC, 14306 Park Ave, Victorville, CA 92392, Email to: christier@mdaqmd.ca.gov , FAX: (760) 241-6271.  For more information contact:  Christie Robinson/YELC Coordinator, (760) 245-1661 x 6101.

 

 

Upcoming STEM Events

Several statewide STEM education events are coming up in the fall, so please keep them on your radar:

• AV MSET, STEM School Tour in Palmdale for industry partners: 30 October 2013 - contact Bob Johnstone for details, bjohnstone@cityoflancasterca.org
• California Science Education Conference: 25-27 October 2013 in Palm Springs - http://www.cascience.org/csta/conf_home13.asp
• California Math Council - South:  Annual Mathematics Council 1-2 November 2013 in Palm Springs, CA - http://cmc-math.org/activities/south_conference.html
• California's 1st Annual STEM Conference: 18-19 November 2013 in Sacramento, CA - http://www.cde.ca.gov/pd/ca/sc/stemconference.asp

GE Hosts #6SecondScience Fair on Social Media 8/8-8/15/13

GE is hosting a social media science fair from 8-15 August 2013 using the Vine app for six-second videos to be posted using the hashtag #6secondsciencefair on Twitter.  GE will both create (including celebrity videos) and curate user-created videos showing their science projects.  One of the popular offerings to date shows what happens when you combine milk, food coloring, and dish soap.  Go to http://www.gereports.com/6secondscience/ for more details and to see some of the videos.
 

"Zombie Science" on the Marquee of "STEM Behind Hollywood"

Fox News reports on a new initiative by Texas Instruments and The Science & Entertainment Exchange which provides curriculum resources in "STEM Behind Hollywood." "Zombie Science"  Free resources relate to the popular "undead" theme of movies and television, where students can learn about the spread of disease and inoculation, among other subjects, such as forensics, space, and superheroes in the media.  For more information, visit STEM Behind Hollywood .

AV Summer Gateway Academies Engage Middle School Students in STEM

Two Project Lead the Way Summer Gateway Academy sessions were sponsored by the AVUHSD for middle school students during June and July 2013.  Over thirty students took part in events such as rocket-building and launching, creating solar cell phone covers, learning how to use design software, and programming Boe-bots to go through a maze, among others.  The session held at Lancaster High School was also visited by Lockheed Martin's school outreach team.

Eagle Robotics team member assists students to learn design software at
Lancaster HS Summer Gateway Academy

Middle school students launch solar balloon

Students at KHS Summer Gateway Academy create solar cell phone covers/chargers

 

Claremont Graduate University Publishes Inaugural Digital "STEAM Journal"

Claremont Graduate University has published its inaugural on-line "The STEAM Journal" dedicated to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math.  To access it, read and download papers under Digital Commons rights, visit Claremont Graduate University "The STEAM Journal" Inaugural Issue .

Geek Week on YouTube Airs 8/4-8/10/13

The week of 4 August through 10 August has been dubbed "Geek Week" on YouTube.  On Monday, the theme is "Global Geekery" on multi-cultural geek trends and a celebration of Dr. Who. "Brainiac Tuesday" will feature Veritasium and The Spangler Effect with science, education, and "all things knowledge." SuperWednesday will cover superheroes, supernatural and "super-weird".  Gaming Thursday will include live games, games in real life, and a Twitter chat on gaming (#GeekWeek at 1pm PST), while Friday ends up with "Fan Friday" featuring Felicia Day of "Geek & Sundry."  Weekend fare includes "Best of Geek Week Saturday."  For more info and a complete rundown, including info on how to get badges for participating and real-time clues for an Easter egg hunt, visit www.YouTube.com/GeekWeek .

"Air Force Collaboratory" Project Designed to Draw Students to STEM Subjects

A new US Air Force recruitment/training initiative known as the "Air Force Collaboratory" was announced in the New York Times this week (Air Force Asks Students to Solve Real-World Problems ).  The program tasks students aged 16-24 to participate in an on-line platform where they will work with Air Force personnel on projects such as using rapid prototyping (3d printers) to develop search and rescue apparatus to locate missing persons, build quadrotors which operate with minimal human interaction, and targeting GPS coordinates for new satellites, with a view to attracting more qualified young people to STEM careers in the military.  To see the Collaboratory and to register to participate, go to https://collaboratory.airforce.com/. 

MIT Professors Develop Open Source Math and Science Videos for High School Students

As recently reported by the Kansas City Star (MIT Interactive Videos Get High), MIT professors Richard Larson and Elizabeth Murray have developed open source math and science videos designed to incorporate teacher interruptions to engage high school students in the subject matter.  With titles such as "How Do Mosquitos Fly in the Rain?," "The Case of the Stolen Painting: A Forensic Mystery," and "Measuring Distances in the Milky Way," most are in English, and some with English sub-titles, so that they can be used globally.  To access the videos through the MIT Blossoms Video Library, go to http://blossoms.mit.edu/videos.

Public Comment Sought on Math Materials Adoption - Due Date 8/27/13

The California Department of Education is seeking public comment on new grade K-8 math instructional materials for adoption in 2014.  Comments are to be received by 27 August 2013.  For more information, plus links to the student materials and a public comment template, visit 2014 Mathematics Instructional Materials Adoption (K-8) .

STEM In Sports Trivia Contest

As part of TimeWarner's "Connect A Million Minds" STEM campaign, Victor Cruz is partnering for a giveaway related to STEM in football.  To enter, follow both @TeamVic and @ConnectMinds and answer the tweeted trivia question on Monday, 29 July, using #STEMinSports in the reply for a chance to win autographed merchandise.

Here's an example of a question: 

• Trivia Q2: What principle does a tackle use to block a quarterback sneak? Get hints & rules @ConnectMinds http://bit.ly/14VrfyB #STEMInSports

Lexus EcoChallenge Open for STEM Team Registrations 9/2/13

Thanks to Samantha Murray at MEEC for this info:

The Lexus and Scholastic “Eco Challenge” offers $500,000 in grants and scholarships!

The Lexus Eco Challenge, designed by Lexus and Scholastic, is a nationwide education program and contest about the environment that empowers teens to create a better world. Middle and high school students, grades 6-12, across the country can participate in one or both of the two initial challenges addressing environmental issues related to land, water, air and climate. To participate in this STEM competition teams, comprised of 5-10 students and a teacher advisor, must: define an issue, make a plan to address the issue, implement the plan, and report on the results. Up to 16 teams in each challenge will win $10,000 in grants and scholarships. All the winning teams will be invited to participate in the Final Challenge for a chance to win one of two $30,000 grand prizes. In all, $500,000 in scholarships and grants will be awarded. 

 Registration for the first challenge (land/water) begins September 2, 2013 (deadline Oct. 7)

Registration for the second challenge (air/climate) begins October 14, 2013 (deadline Nov. 11)

 

Registration for the final challenge begins November 18, 2013 (deadline January 17).

For more information and a set of official rules, visit: http://lexus.scholastic.com/ 

Aerospace Education Services Project Teacher Webinars and Digital Badging

Penn State University, as part of the NASA Aerospace Education Service Project, is offering a series of free webinars for educators.  The topics range from remote sensing (July 16), to engineering design processes (multiple sessions in July and August) to Mission Mars, weather, and solar energy, among others.  For more information on webinar dates and how to connect, visit AESP Webinars .  Teachers who complete the webinars can receive certificates of completion.

NASA's AESP is also offering a digital badging program for completers of their professional development to include within on-line portfolios, along with feedback from master educators.  For details and to sign up, go to AESP Teacher Learning Journeys .

45 iPad Apps for Science Learning

Tripwire magazine has published a list of "45 Outstanding iPad Apps for Science Learrning," some of which are free and some of which require a fee to purchase.  Check out the article at 45 Outstanding iPad Apps for Science Learning.

NASA To Offer Summer LEGO Robotics Workshops in the AV

NASA Dryden/AERO Institute and the Boys and Girls Clubs will offer two types of summer LEGO robotics workshops in the Antelope Valley in 2013: 

1.  Middle school students (entering 4th through 8th grades) and their parents will be able to learn to build, program, and test/operate robots on a playing field after learning the history of robotics.  The three-hour workshops will be held at the AERO Institute, 38256 Sierra Highway, Palmdale, CA from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on July 13 (update - the 7/13 session will now be held from 9:00am to noon), 24, and 31.   To register for any of these student-based events, please call 661-276-7784 or email nicholas.pontius@aeroi.org by July 8, 2013, with the full names of participants, grade level for the students, email, phone number and number attending with the group.  LEGO kits and computers will be provided at the AERO for up to 10 teams.
2. Middle school educators (formal and informal, including Boys & Girls Clubs, Scouts, libraries, etc.) are eligible to attend one workshop to be held on August 10, 2013 from 9am to 3pm at Joe Walker S.T.E.A.L.T.H. Academy, 5632 W. Avenue L-8, and Lancaster, CA 93536.  This workshop will be hosted by the Westside School District and will be presented by the Joe Walker Science Jets  at Joe Walker STEALTH Academy.  Please call 661-276-7784 or email nicholas.pontius@aeroi.org to register by July 26, providing your full name, email, phone number, and your school/organizational affiliation. There will be 10 teams with multiple adults on each team.
    
   If you have any questions about any of the workshops, call Cecilia Cordova, NASA, 661.276.3266 or email cecilia.f.cordova@nasa.gov.