Date

Middle and High School Teacher Opportunity
International Polar Year: Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics Polar Connections
University of Massachusetts Amherst
14-18 July 2008

Application Deadline: Tuesday, 1 April 2008

For further information, please go to:
http://www.umassk12.net/ipy


Funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and University of
Massachusetts Amherst, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
(STEM) Polar Connections is designed to promote the teaching of science
concepts and processes related to the polar regions and to emphasize
connections to state and national science standards in middle and high
schools.

This unique teacher opportunity features a week-long program at
University of Massachusetts Amherst, which focuses on current science
research in the polar regions and makes connections to school science
curriculums. The program will address the rapid changes occurring in the
physical environment, the corresponding impact on the biosphere, and the
history and politics of the polar regions. During the program
participants will preview the curriculum materials and draft a plan for
incorporating them into the classroom. Online discussion forums will be
held during the academic year to facilitate collaborative efforts
between participants and university faculty. Teachers can earn
Professional Development Points (PDPs) for participation in this
program, and three graduate credits will be available at a reduced cost.
Housing, meals, and travel reimbursement will be provided for those who
live outside the commuting area. In addition to a $375 USD stipend,
participants will receive various materials, a materials budget, and
funds to support their dissemination efforts.

To apply, teachers must prepare a narrative statement on how they plan
to use the information from this seminar in the classroom, as well as
how and where they will disseminate knowledge about the study of polar
regions within the school, school district, and community. Applicants
must include a resume and letter of support from the school principal or
superintendent. The application package can be submitted by e-mail, fax,
or regular mail, but should be received by Tuesday, 1 April 2008. Late
applications will be accepted on a space available basis.

The program is sponsored by the STEM Education Institute and the Climate
System Research Center (CSRC), and is designed for teachers of middle
and high school science, math, and technology.

For more information and application forms, please go to:
http://www.umassk12.net/ipy

or contact:
E-mail: ipy [at] umassk12.net
Phone: 413-545-0734
Fax: 413-545-3697