Welcome to the Heartland Science Scoop, a quarterly newsletter for sharing opportunities and resources related to science teaching and learning. The Science School will include up-to-date information about professional learning opportunities, research-based pedagogy, curriculum materials, and information central to science education. Overall, our goal is to keep you "in the know" without taking too much time or inbox space. Subscribe to receive alerts when the newest Science Scoop is posted.
Ashley Delaney, PhD
Grades PK-8, Computer Science, STEM/Maker Spaces, Essential Elements for Science, Work-Based Learning, and Homeschool.
Ashley joined Heartland AEA in 2019 after completing her Ph.D. at Iowa State University in STEM, science, and mathematics education. Spending 13 years in Chicago and central Iowa schools, Ashley has extensive experience with standards-based curriculum and instruction, integrated science teaching and learning, and STEM. Her research and practice focus on equity, elementary and early childhood science integration, and inquiry-based teaching and learning.
Adam Puderbaugh, MSE
Grades 6-12, Des Moines Public Schools, OpenSciEd, Standards-Based/Referenced Grading, and Informal Educational Partners
Adam came to Heartland AEA in 2019 from Des Moines Public Schools where he served as the district K-12 Science Coordinator. Some of his previous work focused on standards-based instruction/grading, project-based learning, Iowa Core Science Standards/NGSS implementation, and science integration into elementary classrooms. Adam has a passion for equity and has supported district leadership in school improvement work.
Spring Learning Opportunities
Visit the HAEA Online Learning Portal to register.
The Integrated Approach: Blending the K-5 Comp Sci Standards into Existing Instruction: Blend the computer science standards and requirements into your existing instruction. Experience and develop lessons they can use in their classrooms and share with their PLCs. Click on flyer for more details.
Book Study of “Science in the City: Culturally Relevant STEM Education": Read about and discuss instruction focused on discussing science, and using stories and anecdotes to induct students into scientific thinking, skills, and content. Learn how to use of more familiar, culturally relevant communication paving the way for robust learning.
Science and Literacy with Picture Perfect Science: Ready-to-teach science lessons designed to help K-5 teachers to integrate science and reading in an engaging, kid-friendly way. Model reading comprehension strategies while teaching science content in a meaningful context.
Elementary Science 101: Designed as an entry-level course, this is perfect for those teaching science for the first time, returning for the first time in a long time, or just wanting to brush up on skills and knowledge of resources. Content will focus on grades K-5.
For Teachers
Iowa Conservation Education Coalition (ICEC) Winter Workshop 2023
February 11, 2023 at Drake University
Winter Workshop is targeted to educators (teachers, naturalists, other non-formal educators), college students – particularly those going into education in some capacity, or any who are working to help their communities and networks understand the personal and academic benefits of spending time outdoors.
For Students
State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa
March 30-31 at Iowa State University
The Iowa 4-H Youth Development’s State Science + Technology Fair of Iowa (SSTFI) serves as a platform for student researchers (grades 6 – 12) to meet with professional researchers and communicate their findings and understanding of the research process.
Registration closes February 19th.
For Students
Industry Simulation Education (InSimEd)
Various locations and dates
InSimEd runs regional and national design-based competitions for K-12 students. Events are designed to give students a challenging environment in which to learn the practical realities of various STEM-related fields. Students network with and learn from industry professionals that support the contests.
View contests and register on the website.
For Teachers
Summer Research Opportunities for Teachers
June 14-July 26, 2023 at Iowa State University
6-12 science and STEM teachers have the opportunity to work on cutting edge research under the supervision of a faculty team and build classroom resources. Earn $900/week over the course of the six-week program. A travel stipend as well as on-campus housing are available. Visit the website for more details.
Applications due February 28, 2023.
For Students
Iowa Youth Institute for the World Food Prize
April 24, 2023 at Iowa State University
The Iowa Youth Institute is a life-changing experience where high school students engage with leading experts on critical global challenges, participate in hands-on activities, and explore exciting ways to make a difference in Iowa and around the world. Scholarships are available for students in need.
Registration closes March 31, 2023.
For Teachers
Nourishing Our Soil and Water through Sustainable Agriculture
April-June 2023 in Marshalltown
Environmental Issues Instruction and Upper Iowa University an interdisciplinary hands-on workshop to all teachers and covers all content areas. A $275 registration fee includes food, lodging, materials, 2 graduate credits, AND access to grant funds for classroom projects.
Visit the website for registration and more information.
