EETAP Fall Courses ~ Online

The Habitable Planet: A Systems Approach to Environmental Science This course is an excellent resource for teachers, college students, and adult learners that explores the natural functions of Earth's systems: geophysical, atmospheric, oceanic and ecosystems; Earth's ability to sustain life, especially human life; and the effects that human actions have had on the different natural systems. The Web site provides access to course content and activities developed by leading scientists and researchers in the field. Visit the in-depth Web site for more information including the free access and downloadable online textbook: http://www.learner.org/channel/courses/envsci

Applied Environmental Education Program Evaluation (AEEPE): September 8 - December 5, 2008 ~ Online
This 13-week course is designed to assist environmental educators and natural resource professionals in evaluating their education programs. $200 scholarships are offered to participants that are EE leaders and/or responsible for an EE program.

Fundamentals of Environmental Education (FEE): September 8 - November 28, 2008 ~ Online
A 12-week online course is appropriate for classroom teachers and for nonformal educators who work with students and/or teachers. It provides educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to incorporate quality environmental education into their instruction. $200 scholarships are offered to state EE leaders.

Leadership Development in Natural Resources: Strategic Planning and Implementation: September 22 - November 21, 2008 ~ Online
Learn how to develop successful strategic planning and implementation models, processes, and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on managing the strategic planning process to build the capacity of organizations to provide effective environmental education programs.

Making EE Relevant for Culturally Diverse Audiences (MEER): September 2 - November 6, 2008 ~ Online
This 10-week course is designed to provide participants with the basic knowledge and skills needed to make EE relevant to culturally diverse audiences. Through this course participants will broaden their perspective of EE to encompass interests and issues of concern to culturally diverse audiences, assess barriers to participation among these audiences, and apply cultural competency skills in building relationships and partnerships with members of an audience they intend to work with in the future. $200 scholarships are offered to participants that are EE leaders and/or responsible for an EE program.

Contact Angela Lemar ( Angela.Lemar@uwsp.edu ) for a registration form.

TerraCycle and the Eco-Capitalist

Help eliminate the idea of waste Earn money by recycling. Terracycle buys plastic wraps, candy wrappers, and a whole slew of plastic containers from groups, schools, and fundraisers, to reuse for their business. They make everything they sell out of trash!

Read more on the Eco-Capitalist blog from Tom Szaky, the CEO of TerraCycle, who writes about driving up business profits by being environmentally and socially responsible.

Secondary Environmental Education Module "Forest of the World"

Project Learning Tree (PLT), in partnership with the World Forestry Center, has completed a new set of secondary activities Global Connections: Forests of the World. The new module will consists of nine activities that will provide students with the opportunity to do research and apply critical thinking skills to consider the social, economic, and environmental implications that underlie decisions about forest management. Educators can use the module in biology, geography, agriculture, and other science and social studies courses at the high school or early college level.

  Discover Your Summer 2008
Discover Your Summer 2008 is an online resource guide to more than 150 summer science opportunities for middle and high school students.  The resource by Project Explorations provides tips on how and where to apply for summer programs. At Project Exploration, they believe that the summer months should give students more than just a break from school. Their Discover Your Summer Guide will help students be a part of science enrichment programs that will broaden horizons and help prepare them for the future.

High School Science Teachers Needed for Field Test
Technical Education Research Centers (TERC)

School year 2008-2009

High School Science Teachers Needed for Field Test

Technical Education Research Centers (TERC) is seeking high school science teachers to pilot or field test its Biocomplexity and the Habitable Planet, an innovative 11th-12th grade capstone course in ecosystem/environmental science, during the 2008-2009 school year. Stipends provided. For more information follow the link provided or contact Tara Robillard at tara_robillard@terc.edu or call 617-873-9872

High School Biology Teachers Needed for Survey

High school biology teachers with knowledge of genetics and evolution to pilot an assessment are wanted by the Education Development Center for Children & Technology (EDCCT). EDCCT in collaboration with PBS Teacher Line New York and the Buffalo PBS affiliate WNED is working to conduct National Science Foundation funded study to learn more about what teachers gain from online professional development and whether it impacts student learning. Interested teachers will:

1. Receive the assessment electronically

2. Complete the 60-75 minute assessment which includes content and pedagogy items as well as questions about a lesson plan

3. Electronically submit the assessment along with the lesson plan

4. Receive $50 as compensation

If you are interested, please contact Kristen Griffiths at KGriffiths@edc.org or 212-807-4267.

Lansing has an initiative to Go Green!This program supports economic and environmental health for the greater Lansing area. The site provides information on how to make a difference on a personal or business level. Check out the events happening in Lansing!

The EPA has a websitedevoted to high school students! Learn about conservation methods, internship availability, air quality, healthy and safety. This site contains a large quantity of information available that is specifically designed for high school students.

Middle school students Make a Differencewith the EPA! Students are encouraged to use the tips provided on this site. Implementing new techniques and making environmentally friendly decisions is promoted. A variety of resources just for middle school students!

A Guide to Desert & Dryland Restoration : This book, written by David A. Bainbridge, is a study of dryland degradation and desertification. Bainbridge describes, in detail, the causes and solutions to this problem. Student activities are suggested in the book and selected chapter powerpoints are available free online.  

TogetherGreen Grants and Leadership Program Launched

A new National Audubon Society program with support from Toyota aimed to build conservation leadership; engage people in conservation action; and achieve lasting conservation results. The TogetherGreen Innovation Grants will fund projects that engage diverse communities and contribute to measurable conservation outcomes. The Conservation Leadership Program invests in leaders who are committed to empowering others and to creating positive environmental change in their communities and organizations.

http://eelink.net/cgi-bin/ee-link/newclick/7675075

Two New Publications on the Environment and Human Health

The National Council for Science and the Environment (NCSE) is offering a pdf version of two publications from the 2007 National Conference on Science, Policy and the Environment: Integrating Environment and Human Health. The first report, Integrating Environment and Human Health, discusses the connection between human health and the health of the planet. The second publication Climate, Poverty and Health: Time for Preventive Medicine, describes the negative impacts of climate change on human health and how poverty exacerbates the impacts.

http://eelink.net/cgi-bin/ee-link/newclick/7675079

Place-Based Social Studies

Civil War Quests offer students the opportunity to learn from the place they live. Students adopt soldiers and use primary & secondary sources to connect with history personally. They practice being historians, and their culminating product extends learning to the broader community. Valley Quest is available to lead training workshops. Created by www.valleyquest.org and www.flowofhistory.org with support from the Teaching American History program.

http://eelink.net/cgi-bin/ee-link/newclick/7675093

MEERA My Environmental Education Evaluation Resource Assistant (MEERA) is a new online resource aimed to help Educators evaluate the quality of their program. MEERA is designed to help educators with little, intermediate, or advanced evaluation experience. This tool was created at the University of Michigan in partnership with the US EPA and US Forest Service response to the growing need to report on program successes to funding agencies. MEERA helps educators choose an appropriate evaluation and provides a step-by-step guide through the process, including sample evaluations from other programs. For more information, visit the web link http://eelink.net/cgi-bin/ee-link/newclick/7675099

Adopt the Guidelines- Groups are encouraged to adopt these guidelines from the NAAEE and the National Project for Excellence in Environmental Education. Organizations that have adopted these guidelines will increase awareness and improve environmental education in the field. Visit the website for more information and to view a list of organizations that have adopted the guidelines.

Mindful Living: Human Health, Pollution, and Toxics- This resource helps individuals learn about toxins and pollution in common household items, such as baby toys. Learn how to react to the presence of pollution and toxic substances in your home and community.

Center for the Advancement of the Steady State Economy- This website includes material such as videos, slideshows and articles. This resource, for educators and students, explores the relationship between economic growth and environmental protection.

Earth Charter in Action- A variety of resources and material available, including a newsletter! Learn what steps you can take as well as what is needed for a sustainable future from a global consensus.

NASAhas a new website! This site provides in-depth information about NASA's past, future and current missions. Interactive science material is kid-friendly, easy to navigate and allows access to more resources behind NASA missions.

Mars Student Imaging Program(MSIP)- Grades 5- college sophomore level are encouraged to participate in the MSIP. Participating teachers will receive a $500 stipend for feedback. Spring, summer or fall 2008 programs are available. Students will work with Mars scientists at Arizona State University and study a scientific topic relating to Mars' surface geology.

Learn about the Moon through Games- NASA is sponsoring this online game initiative to increase science education. Game players will be assessed on how much they are learning by how they play the game. This game is free and designed for students 13-18 years of age.

e-Mentoringfor 1^st-3^rd year middle/high school science teachers is available for 2008-2009! An online mentoring gives mentees the opportunity to work with experienced educators, scientists and other new teachers.  Each mentee has a personal mentor and has access to a variety of resources. To view a virtual tour click here.

Lucinda Mitchell is a Michigan Science Author and a 6^th grade teacher who has self-published three books for children. Her books focus on constellations and space poetry. Ms. Mitchell is available to speak in both science and English classrooms. For more information please contact the author by email at lomitchell@lycos.com. Her books are available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, www.authorhouse.com, and Bord ers bookstores. 

Climate and Poverty Resource- The National Council of Churches Eco-Justice Program studies the relationship between climate change and poverty. This resource is designed for adult study as well as youth activities and includes ways to take action. It is available free online. 

Online Summer and Fall EETAP Courses- Online courses have been announced for summer and fall 2008 semesters! Various undergraduate or graduate classes are available for environmental educators and natural resource professionals. Scholarships are available. For more information visit the website or contact Angela Lemar at Angela.Lemar@uwsp.edu

Climate and Poverty Resource- The National Council of Churches Eco-Justice Program studies the relation between climate change and poverty. This resource is designed for adult study as well as youth activities and includes ways to take action. It is available free online. 

University of Wisconsin - River Falls The University of Wisconsin - River Falls is currently offering an online graduate certification program that allows individuals to engage in further advancement within the environmental fields. This course seeks to offer skills that will allow the students to effectively preserve the Earth's natural resources while enhancing economic opportunity within their community. For more information follow the link provided above or contact Steve Sandstrom at ssanndstrom@centurytel.net

Habitable Planet Course The Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics has joined with the Harvard University Center to provide educators with a very useful online tool. These online course are designed to assist educators with advancing their ability to transform their classroom. All of the materials presented are free of charge and hard copies are available at a nominal cost.

State Wind Outreach Team The State Wind Outreach Team has been formed by the Energy Office to offer educational outreach to the State of Michigan regarding wind energy. The State Wind Outreach Team attempts to provide information that is accurate and up to date for educators in the community to utilize. Area educators can obtain more information on this program by visiting the link listed above.

K-12 Educational Online Seminars
The National Science Teachers Association has come together with a group of providers to offer science educators a chance to engage in some exciting opportunities. A series of free 90-minuete online seminars are available to all those interested in furthering their understanding of many important science related issues. Teachers can learn about everything from coral ecosystems and polar bears, to Mars exploration and food science. To register for these events follow the link provided to the NSTA webpage.

Seminars in Science  
This is a great opportunity for educators looking to obtain post graduate certifications in science related fields. The American Museum of Natural History is sponsoring these 6-week seminars on the solar system. Other classes offered through these seminars include topics such as; The Ocean System, Genetics, and the Diversity of Fisheries. Graduate credit is available for those interested.   

Great Backyard Bird Count   (GBBC)  The GBBC is a free annual event open to bird watchers of all ages. Take part anytime during the four-day event and, in as little as 15 minutes, you will be involved in a continent wide real-time snapshot of birds.

Cartoons for Conservation   : Artist Alan Hesse's website is comprised of his conservational and educational cartoons. These cartoons illustrate conservation messages in a fun and easy to understand format.    

Rare Earthtones  :  Free downloadable wildlife ringtones available from The Center of Biological Diversity. The website also offers photos, wallpaper and facts about featured wildlife species for free download!

Fisheries Learning on the Web (FLOW):    Free Great Lakes ecosystem lessons and activities available online for elementary and middle school educators. Explore food webs, fish and water in a fun, hands-on way.

Astronomical Society Seeking Activities:The Astronomical Society of the Pacific is beginning work on a national professional development project to help small-to medium-sized nature centers, science museums and natural history museums engage their visitors in more astronomy explorations.  Submit information and suggestions on quality astronomy activities that are already in use in informal education settings to Suzy Chippindale at:  schippindale@astrosociety.org

Community Space for Educators:  Bioneers has a new community space for educators to provide inspirational and practical materials and events. Read articles and interviews with educational innovators and visionaries. Explore and share curriculum and teaching ideas. Create a blog to share articles and thoughts. Propose and conduct interviews with Bioneers speakers.

Environmental Online Classes The National Center for Atmospheric Research is offering an online course for K-12 educators. These online courses include topic discussions concerning Earth system science, climate and global changes related to the science field. The courses are 6 weeks and the class sessions run throughout the year depending on the topic you are interested in. There are three focus areas in the classes that include, Introduction to Earth's Climate, Earth System Science: A Climate Change Perspective, and Understanding Climate Change Today. For more information and to register for the classes visit the website,  http://ecourses.ncar.ucar.edu   .

M.S. In Ecological Teaching: Lesley University   This Master program offered through Lesley University provides those seeking a continued education with a desirable option. Lesley University offers and academically rigorous program that challenges individuals to think progressively about the environmental concerns present today. This is a 32 credit program and it is designed to involve extensive hands on experience to assure the students are receiving a thorough educational experience. If you may be interested in this program, much more information is available online at  www.lesley.edu/gsass/audubon   .

Yale Online Environmental Magazine - Spring 2008  The Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies is launching YaleEnvironment Online in Spring 2008, with award-winning former editor of Mother Jones and Audubon magazines, Roger Cohn, as editor. The publication will include op-ed articles, reports, multi-media content, panel discussions, blogs, and more.   

2008 Spring Schedule for EETAP Online Courses:  The spring registration for online environmental education classes will soon be starting. Registration for ‘Applied Environmental Education Program Evaluation' will begin Feb. 18, while registration for ‘Fundamentals of Environmental Education' begins Feb. 4. For course descriptions and additional information, please visit the link above.

National Science Foundation: Astronomy from the Ground Up Astronomy from the Ground Up and the National Science Foundation are sponsoring an online learning workshop for educators. Science, Nature Center and Museum Educators are invited to participate in this free workshop that utilizes technology to eliminate distance barriers. Educators can engage in the educational process through email, video-chat, and telephone. The two workshops will be held Jan. 10- Feb. 7 and Feb. 21- Mar. 20 2008. Visit  www.astrosociety.org/afgu   for more information on this educational opportunity

Applied Environmental Education Program Evaluation: Participants will learn to evaluate environmental education and outreach programs by designing evaluation tools, such as questionnaires, focus groups, or observation forms.   This course was designed to assist environmental educators and natural resource professionals to help evaluate their education programs. For more information on the course, please visit:  http://eelink.net/cgi-bin/ee-link/newclick/2066911

Fundamentals of Environmental Education: This online course provides both classroom teachers and other educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to incorporate environmental education into their instruction. Participants will discuss the history and goals of environmental education, develop instructional methods and discuss the professional role of an environmental educator, as well as interact with educators from around the county. For more information on the course and to register, please visit:  http://eelink.net/cgi-bin/ee-link/newclick/2066911   .

Free Energy Lesson Plans and Activities: The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is offering 350 downloadable lessons and activities on energy efficiency and renewable energy. The lessons are organized by grade level and topic. For more information about obtaining the classroom materials, please visit http://eelink.net/cgi-bin/ee-link/newclick/2066917    .

Inconvenient Truth Teacher Resources:  Make your school more green with Environmentally Friendly One Planet Fundraising. On this site you will find links to websites offering lesson plans and information on global warming and climate change. In addition, this site offers teacher generated lessons and units for use specifically with Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth.  http://oneplanetfundraising.com/teacherresources.aspx

THREE PROGRAMS FROM EDUCATION.COM  Get Published!
Share your knowledge (and opinions) about education and child development with the world! Submit articles, activities, lesson plans, and more. We review for publication clearly written, concise, and consumer-friendly content. Education.com serves parents, educators, and students in preschool through twelfth grade.  http://www.education.com/get_published/

The Planet Protectors Club Calendar Kit: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to announce the availability of a 10-month Planet Protectors Club Calendar Kit.  The kit is designed to teach children in Grades K-3 the concepts of reducing, reusing, and recycling, waste. The kit contains a large, full-color poster for teachers or group leaders. Smaller versions of the poster may be ordered for each student/child in the classroom or group, along with a set of stickers to track progress in completing the activities. Simple, step-by-step instructions and a list of materials are included for each activity; most of which take less than an hour to complete.
http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/kids/ppcform.htm

Green Hour: The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created this Web site to provide parents with the information and inspiration to get their children outside for an hour every day.  Learn why this is so important and how it will benefit your children. Check out the virtual community and share your outdoor experiences! http://www.greenhour.org/

New Book: Wetland Drainage, Restoration, and Repair: Learn how to restore naturally appearing wetlands at schools and nature centers for use by 30-students at a time for under $2,000.00.  Author Tom Biebighauser has built over 985 wetlands across North America     and regularly teaches hands-on wetland restoration workshops.  The book features his specialty of helping educators build wetlands at schools by using a variety of techniques including synthetic liners to benefit frogs, toads, salamanders, aquatic plants, and endangered species.

The Ecotipping Points Project:  The EcoTipping Points Project is "Disseminating a New Paradigm for Strategic Sustainability." The Web site features environmental success stories from around the world, educational materials, regional planning, and more. Resources page includes Educational Materials. 

The Encyclopedia of Earth:  The Encyclopedia of Earth is an electronic reference about the Earth, its natural environments, and their interaction with society. The goal of the experts who contribute to this Web site is to make it "the largest reliable information resource on the environment in history."

ToxTown:   Tox    Town   helps high-school students and teachers learn about environmental health concerns and toxic chemicals pictured in an imaginary town. Includes a text version and some Spanish-language resources.

Virtual Island    : This virtual earth-science island, offered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), offers site visitors the opportunity to experience several earth-science phenomena while learning about the cutting-edge science that NOAA conducts regularly.

World Ecosystems Beyond Borders (WEBB):  Free Web-based curriculum to help teachers bring global environmental issues to science and social studies classrooms.  The WEBB curriculum engages students in a dynamic study of local and global issues to prepare them for citizenship in an increasingly interconnected world.  Sponsored by Global Studies at the University of Wisconsin , Madison.

Astronomy from the Ground Up:  The Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASTC) and the National Optical Astronomy Observatory are currently accepting applications for this National Science Foundation sponsored astronomy workshop for science center and other informal educators. Apply online to be considered for the free workshop. The time commitment is approximately five hours per week.

Change a Light, Change the World Campaign:    According to the U.S.government's Energy Star program, by simply replacing a 60-watt incandescent light bulb with an equally bright 13-watt Energy Star qualified light bulb, a household will save more than $30 in energy costs over the lifetime of the bulb.  Join the Campaign!  For more information visit:

Awareness Ideas:This website proves in classroom materials for the awareness of environmental troubles. You can purchase posters, banners, and school supplies with an environmental theme to make your students more aware of the environmental.

Energy Hog Campaign:  The Alliance to Save Energy's Energy Hog campaign is educating teachers, kids and parents about energy efficiency.  Why?  Saving energy lessens our dependence on foreign oil, improves our air and water quality, and reduces our energy bills.  To help spread energy efficiency in the classroom, print out our Student and Teacher Guides.

Facility Inspection Tool:  The Facility Inspection Tool (FIT) developed by the California Department of General Service's Office of Public School Construction was adopted as the means for determining the condition of school facilities by the State Allocation Board (SAB) 

Getting Lost in the Great Indoors:  A Washington Post article about how Many adults worry nature is disappearing from children's lives.

GLOBIO Mapping Human Impact:  This UNEP program, Global Methodology for Mapping Human Impacts on the Biosphere (GLOBIO), uses models and analysis to assess human impact on the biosphere. The Web site features maps, videos, and documents, as well as a description of the model and scenarios.

GreenDimes: GreenDimes stops your paper junk mail, helps protect your identity, and plants a tree for you every month for a fraction of the cost of doing it on your own. http://www.greendimes.com

Soil-Net: Soil-Net.com is an educational resource about soil, with extensive teacher aids supporting many curriculum-based interactive student activities.http://www.soil-net.com

The Chances of the World Changing POV (Point of View): A PBS acclaimed independent non-fiction film series presents: An extraordinary chronicle of two years in the life with Richard Ogust, whose life turns into strange territory as he shares his Manhattan loft with 1,200 turtles he is trying to save. http://www.pbs.org/pov/

Building a Presence for Science: Is the largest networking initiative of the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA). This award-winning program is designed to improve the teaching and learning of science from kindergarten through 12^th grade. NSTA is the world's largest organization dedicated to the improvement of science teaching and learning. Major funding for Building a Presence for Science is provided by the ExxonMobil Foundation. http://msta-mich.org/bap/

Free ACT Prep: The Michigan Virtual School has licensed testGEAR™ as an online test preparation tool for the ACT, Michigan Math, Michigan Science and Michigan Social Studies portion of the Michigan Merit Exam. The purpose of testGEAR is to help students prepare for these exams.http://www.mivhs.org/content.cfm?id=667

Free Resources for Science Teachers: To find free resources and services can help you develop your teaching strategies for next year.  http://science.nsta.org/enewsletter/2007-06/news_stories_high.htm

Michigan  Merit Curriculum Science- In preparation for implementation of the new high school graduation requirements, the Michigan Department of Education, in collaboration with partners across the state, has developed Course/Credit Content Expectations to provide all educators with a common understanding of what high school students should know and be able to do at the completion of each credit/course. http://mi.gov/mde/0,1607,7-140-38924_41644_42814---,00.html
New Environmental Book Emphasizes Critical Thinking: The National Science Teachers Association new title, Resources for Environmental Literacy, will help middle and high school teachers field tough questions about the environment. Teachers will be able to use this

resource as a topic foundation, adding news stories and outside experiences as appropriate for their students. This is a supplementary text that helps build students' critical thinking and analytical skills on a current subject. The book is broken into five modules: Biodiversity; Global Climate Change; Earthquakes, Volcanoes, and Tsunamis; Genetically Modified Crops; and Radioactive Waste.  The modules can be purchased individually or as a package included in the Resources for Environmental Literacy.  http://www.nsta.org/environment
The Online Science Assessment Tool: This site provides access to released items from various state and national standardized tests. All items have been coded to current Michigan Benchmarks and Assessment Standards. The database contains both multiple choice and constructed response questions and can be searched to develop a test built around specific content or assessment standards. After making your selections, a test will be created as an editable Word document. http://www.misd.net/scienceassessment/

Design for E-Learning Online Course: Design for E-Learning is a 15-week online course offered through the University of Alaska Anchorage .  Students will receive 2 credits for this course. http://www.creative-conservation.com/classes_design.htm

Environmental Education Brochures: The state of Washington 's Department of Ecology announced on Nov. 9 a new series of brochures designed to provide environmental education in an easy-to-access format. The series, called "Issue Up Close," debuted with two brochures: "Managing Our Water Successfully" which looks at the issues affecting water availability and what communities and citizens can do to make a difference. "Mitigation That Works." takes a close look at the critical role wetlands play in habitat preservation and what steps can be taken to restore, preserve and protect wetlands. Both are available on the department's Web site at: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/priorities.html

Environmental Justice E-Conference:  This EcoRes Forum E-Conference will focus on the role that environmental justice issues must occupy, arguing that the principles of self-determination and participation in decision-making are vital to these discussions, and that failure to actively address these perspectives is in itself indicative of a choice made, for which our times will be judged by future generations.   Panel proposals are now being accepted. July 14-27

For more information visit: http://www.eco-res.org/press/EnvJust_EConf.html

Environmental Justice Survey:  The Environmental Education Council of Marin (EECoM) is seeking to learn about important environmental justice issues in communities throughout the county. Please help by participating in this five-minute survey. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=570933322394

EETAP Summer and Fall Courses:This course is designed to assist environmental educators and natural resource professionals in evaluating their education programs.  Developed by the Environmental Education and Training Partnership (EETAP) at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife  Service National Conservation Training Center , participants will develop and apply skills in designing tools such as surveys, observation forms, and interview and focus group guides.  3 credits in a graduate or undergraduate program are offered from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point or as a non-credit option. June 10- Dec 7  

For more information visit: http://www.eetap.org/

Join the ARCPS Educator Network: Action-Research for the Community Problem Solving (ARCPS) is defined as a process that enables students and teachers to participate more fully in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of educational activities, aimed at resolving an issue that the learners have identified.  Clause Poudrier has been using ARCPS with his 6^th-grade students since September 1993, and over the past five years has directed a professional development ARCPS program in Canadafor teachers and educators.  Claude is forming a network of educators that are using the ARCPS model that will serve as a forum to share ideas, discuss lessons learned, and further develop the ARCPS model.  To join contact: claude.poudrier@sympatico.ca , or for more information visit http://www3.sympatico.ca/claude.poudrier/ .

Kids Gardening:   School and youth gardens are ideal vehicles for teaching across the curriculum, enlivening learning, and helping young people develop lifelong social skills. Plants have the power to change our lives. They play a basic role in providing clean air and serve as a nutritious basis for healthy living. And they are uniquely effective teaching tools. This website enables kids to experience all of the joys of gardening. http://www.kidsgardening.com/

Leadership Clinics in Environmental Conference Design: The Environmental Education and Training Partnership (EETAP) are forming a new approach to conference design.  The Leadership Clinics evolved from a practical need to bring EE leaders together to learn about new developments, share ideas, strengthen state-level teams, and create action plans. The EETAP Leadership Clinics offer an incredibly successful approach to building capacity to develop comprehensive EE programs. http://eetap.org/pages/article.leadership_clinics_revolutionize.2006.07.php  

Looking For Photos ?:USDA Forest Service's "Find-a-Photo" Web site allows access to thousands of copyright-free wildlife, fish, wildflower, and EE photographs available for non-profit use. Please credit the photographer.

http://wwwnotes.fs.fed.us:81/wo/wfrp/find_a_photo.nsf/

Master of Science in Environmental Education for K-12 Teachers:A professional development program for practicing teachers to earn a Master's degree while continuing to teach. Online during the academic year with summer on-site courses @ Wisconsin  Center for Environmental Education (WCEE) University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point http://www.uwsp.edu/natres/msnree/ For more information please contact Timothy Byers, Outreach Program Manager @ tbyers@uwsp.edu

MegaSkills Online:This Home and School Institute sponsored web site provides information, training, and material for teachers and parents, focusing on children's academic and character education.  For more information visit: http://www.megaskillshsi.org/

Michigan's Rare Plant and Animal Tool: Until now, learning aboutMichigan's more than 600 rare plant and animal species, their habitat needs and management considerations have meant using multiple books, guides and other reference sources. To give Michigan  's residents, decision makers and resource managers a one-stop source for rare species information, the Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) has produced a new online tool called the "Rare Species Explorer. http://web4.msue.msu.edu/mnfi/

MS in Ecological Teaching and Learning: An 18-month program for working educators in schools, museums, and nature centers offered by the Audobon Expedition Institute at Lesley  University .  Students explore the integration of ecological concepts into the curriculum and create a self-designed project demonstrating mastery of ecological principles. Apply Now for the Fall.

National Public Lands Day: National Public Lands Day (NPLD) provides an opportunity for volunteers across the nation to work together in improving our public lands.

Participate in a Survey and Win a Prize:Technical Education Research Center (TERC) and NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) are developing teaching and professional development materials about estuaries, watersheds, and related concepts. Teachers and informal educators are invited to help by sharing thoughts and opinions about teaching these topics in an anonymous online survey. All respondents get online access to curriculum materials and are eligible for a raffle for memberships and educational materials donated by some fabulous professional organizations. For English: or Español:

PreK-4th Grade Activities Needed U.S. EPA is looking for preK-4th grade activities to be used in its new Kids Club. In the club, kids receive recognition for completing environmental projects and activities. Previous activities have been on water conservation (turning off the water while brushing your teeth) and energy conservation (turning off the lights when leaving a room).  We are also looking for activities a teacher can do within their classroom. Recognition will be given on the Web site:  www.epa.gov/kids

Primer for Effective Campaign Strategies: The Great Lakes Connecting Communities Communications Toolbox and Communications Primer provides a simple methodology for creating an effective campaign strategy-designed for Grassroots organizers.  The primer was created by Biodiversity Project and distributed by the Great Lakes Aquatic Habitat Network & Fund (GLAHNF).  For more information visit: http://glhabitat.org/GL_Toolbox_v1/Leave_Alone/primerintro.html

Proposed Interspecies Education Group: Despite having a group dedicated to environmental education issues, no explicit educational concern with the plight of nonhuman animals or their ecological relationship to human animals presently exists in the nation's leading academic association for educators. If you are an AERA (American Education Research Association) member and would like to help begin a new Interspecies Education group to rectify this, the group's steering committee is presently looking for members. Please contact Richard Kahn ( rvkahn@ucla.edu )

Science Integrity Curriculum Guide:  This Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) lesson plan is for undergraduate and advanced high school instructors providing lecture slides, worksheets, homework assignments, essay suggestions, and links to other resources.

Seeking Teachers to Pilot Online Lesson:   Greenfield Community College is the recipient of a USDA Agricultural Education Challenge grant and is seeking secondary school teachers to pilot an online lesson on ground-level ozone. There is a small stipend for participating schools.  The lesson is adaptable and can be used as an out-of-class independent assignment or as in-class lesson on the environment and/or agriculture. The purpose is to provide a platform for discussion about the interrelationship between agriculture and the environment.Email: field@gcc.mass.edu

SustainLane: SustainLane is an open-source knowledge base for state and local government officials to exchange best practices in sustainability as well as network among peers.  It also offers a site for people to rate and discuss green products, services, and personal sustainability.  For more information visit: http://www.sustainlane.us/ .

The Eco Radio Network:Eco Radio Network is a weekly radio program hosted by Peter R. Muscanelli. He covers broad topics concerning recycling, sustainability, conservation, alternative energy, up-to-date news of recycling events and other environmental issues. It can be heard on 810 WGY AM radio or log on to http://www.ecoradionetwork.com/ . Sundays from7pm to8pm.

The Legacy of Rachel Carson - A Centennial Celebration: The Newton Marasco Foundation (NMF) nationwide Centennial Celebration will be hosting public showings of the critically acclaimed play, A Sense of Wonder, based on the life and works of Miss Carson throughout 2007. Other year-long Centennial Celebration events are also planned.  

The People Speak Global Debate: United Nations Foundation project called The People Speak (TPS) encourages young people to be actively engaged on global issues and to understand the value of global cooperation.  The People Speak Global Debate will begin in October 2007 with the topic of climate change and involves high school students researching the debate topic and preparing clear, persuasive arguments for both sides of the issue.  Students will present their arguments and coordinate the entire student body to vote on the topic.  TPS will tally results, with approximately 20 countries involved, that will show where students stand on important global issues.

Track Spring's Journey North: Teachers and students in K-12 classrooms are invited to participate this Spring (February - May) in Journey North's 14th global study of wildlife migration and seasonal change. 

Waterbird Population Estimates: The publication sets the global standard in presenting estimates of the numbers and trends of waterbird populations throughout the world. This fourth edition provides a comprehensive update on information last provided in 2002 and summarizes population data on 878 waterbird species.

Youth Leadership Project: The Youth Leadership Project is a 1 year program for sophomores or juniors in high school in the Detroit  area. Students will learn from leaders in the arts, media, environment, nonprofits, medicine, and others and become empowered and enabled to make positive change in our society. They'll visit outstanding places inSoutheast Michigan and people who are making a difference, while also learning from this small group of your peers. The Youth Leadership Project has helped young people win many awards, inspired them to do greater things, and its experiences have helped them to be accepted into the colleges of their choice.  To apply for the program contact Marie Hochstein, Youth Leadership Project Executive Director, atmariekbbh@aol.comor 248-506-3560.

Sea Stories Online Journal:  Feed your imagination with the just-released Vernal 2007 issue of Sea Stories, an online journal of creative writing and art by ocean-lovers from all backgrounds and walks of life. Educators are invited to use Sea Stories in the classroom or as a publishing opportunity for themselves or their students.

FDA/NSTA Partnership in Food Science

The NSTA in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have developed a supplementary curriculum called Science and Our Food Supply for middle and high school science teachers. This program is aimed at providing challenging hands-on activities that link food science and food safety to students' everyday lives. To learn more about teacher opportunities made available through this FDA/NSTA partnership, visit www.nsta.org/pd/fda.aspx .

http://cse.edc.org/products/default.asp

NSTA Learning Center The NSTA Learning Center is a professional development website designed to help address teacher's classroom needs and busy schedules. Using this site, teachers can gain access to more than 1,200 different resources and opportunities, such as: journal articles, free Science objects, e-chapters from selected books and series, free weekly live Web Seminars where teachers can interact with experts from the scientific community, as well as SciGuides. For more information, visit

http://learningcenter.nsta.org .

NSTA List Server

NSTA's lists are group e-mail discussions that allow members to exchange information in a peer-to-peer forum. Subscriber can now select from 12 topic areas: biology, chemistry, computer science, Earth science, elementary, environmental science, general science, physical science, physics, technology education, new teacher, and retired teacher. Colleagues on the list server can share ideas, get information, and ask questions on important issues. The list server is quick and simple to use, so you can easily stay current on trends in science education. The lists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so information from you peers is available when you need it. For more information, visit www.nsta.org/membership/listserver.aspx .

NSTA Press Books

Did you know that you can access a chapter of many new NSTA Press books online for free? Visit http://www.nsta.org/store , and click on the book of your choice. Scroll down to the "Read a sample chapter" link.

NSTA Web Seminars

These are 90-minutes live professional development experiences which will allow distant participants to interact with recognized experts including NSTA Press authors and scientists, engineers, and education specialists from NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the National Science Digital Library (NSDL). These online events are grant-funded, and offered at no cost. However, the numbers of participants are limited; it is first come, first served on the day of the program. Register early to receive a username. Password and other program information will follow via e-mail. To register or view a full schedule of June seminar topics, dates, and times, visit http://institute.nsta.org/web_seminars.asp .

Science Teachers' Grab Bag

The online NSTA Science Teachers' Grab Bag lists free or inexpensive resources for teachers. From lesson plans to online activities to free videos, teachers can find an array of resources for their classrooms. These resources can be searched by keyword, cost, or type, and all are listed in the order they are posted. Short descriptions accompany each listing, with links to the event or program website. To learn more about these opportunities, check them out at http://www.nsta.org/publications/grabbag.aspx .

SciGuides

NSTA's online resource, SciGuides, will transform the way you use the internet to plan and provide science instruction to your K-12 students. SciGuides will enable you to quickly and easily locate targeted science content information and teaching resources from NSTA-approved websites and will provide instructional tools and strategies to put them into practice. For more information and a sample SciGuide, visit http://sciguides.nsta.org/default.aspx .

SciLinks

SciLinks is an exciting partnership between progressive U.S. textbook publishers and NSTA, containing websites to help extend and expand your students' understanding in science. It includes Science news to add context to classroom learning; Activities to bring science alive for students; Experts to answer student questions and satisfy their curiosity. It is a free service to those with SciLinks-enabled textbooks as well as NSTA members. Just log on to the SciLinks site and enter a SciLinks number from the margin of your textbook. You will be offered a smorgasbord of teacher-approved internet resources tied to that specific point in your book. To learn more about SciLinks, take the tour at http://www.scilinks.org/tour/default.asp .

Environmental Health Science Education

Educators and students will find easy access to reliable tools, resources, and classroom materials about the link between the environment and human health. The website provides teachers with curricular material, lesson resources, and professional development opportunities. http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/scied/

NASAexplores

NASAexplores provides free weekly K-12 educational articles and lesson plans on current NASA projects. Printable and downloadable, these supplemental curriculum resources meet National Science Education Standards.

  USGS Educational Resources

This site contains selected U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) educational resources for secondary school teachers (grades 7-12). Many of these resources can be used directly in the classroom or will be useful in classroom lessons or demonstration activities preparation. Resources are also available for teacher education and curriculum development. Topics include ecosystems, biology, geography, geology, and water.

http://education.usgs.gov/common/secondary.htm

MY NASA DATA

MY NASA DATA is an effort to develop microsets of Earth science data that are interesting and useful to the K-12 and citizen scientist communities. The datasets provide information on the atmosphere, ocean, and land surface and are available online, along with lesson plans, teacher-friendly documentation, computer tools, and an Earth science glossary. Science project starter ideas are also available.

http://mynasadata.larc.nasa.gov/unit_lessons.html

Daily Lesson Plans

The New York Times' daily lesson plans are developed in partnership with the Bank Street College of Education. The lessons are linked to current news and features and are aligned with national standards.

http://www.nytimes.com/learning/teachers/lessons/science.html   

Mission : Define Your Future

This educational program for grades 6-12 challenges students to relate practical math and science skills to real-world experiences in engineering. Created by Scholastic and Northrop Grumman, this program will sharpen your students' research skills, problem-solving skills, and scientific inquiry skills. Free lesson plans and teacher resources are available on the website.

http://teacher.scholastic.com/lessonplans/engineering

Activity on Alchemy and Isaac Newton

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/teachers/activities/3217_newton.html

To accompany the NOVA program titled "Newton's Dark Secrets," PBS created an activity for middle level and high school students focusing on alchemy. After reading and interpreting a passage from The Twelve Keys of Basil Valentine, students begin to understand the chemistry that Newton and his fellow alchemists practiced. The six-page teacher's guide for the Secret Symbols activity and links to helpful websites are posted online.

Build Green Schools

http://www.buildgreenschools.org/

The U.S. Green Building Council has launched a website for students, parents, teachers, school administrators, elected officials, and community members. The site offers information on the benefits and costs of green schools, and includes profiles of schools that have already gone green, an extensive list of resources and links, and a social networking forum.

OceanWorld

This ocean-science website--developed by Texas A&M University for students, teachers, and the general public--contains information about many important processes in the ocean, as well as links to teaching material and sources of real-time data that can be used in the classroom. K-12 material is tied to national and Texas standards for teaching science and mathematics. http://oceanworld.tamu.edu

Weather Topics

Visit this website for indexed, alphabetized weather topics, from acid rain to Zulu time, in an easy to read format, with many graphics and animations. Scroll down to "Learn about weather, climate."

http://www.usatoday.com/weather/resources/index/windex.htm

CSE Resources and Publications

Center for Science Education (CSE) develops and support projects and programs that are internationally recognized for their innovative approaches to the teaching and learning of science. Staff members comprise of a diverse group of professionals--scientists, science educators and administrators, curriculum writers and developers, policy analysts, journalists, social and educational researchers, and educational program evaluators. http://cse.edc.org/products/default.asp