NSELA catalyzes leadership to maximize effective science teaching and learning in a complex and changing environment. If you are receiving this email and are not a member, we encourage you to join us and get involved!

April 2024

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EDUCATE
Keeping current with news in science education.

President's Message

their achievements. Keep in mind as you work. Who are the emerging leaders and colleagues you are mentoring? What actions are you taking? What resources do you use to guide your mentoring work? How are you sharing your influence?

I understand the critical importance of my key mentor, Dr. Emma Walton. She took a young science educator under her wing and provided many opportunities and skills for success. For Emma’s grace and modeling, I am extremely grateful. The trajectory of my career was changed with her influence and guidance. I encourage each of us to find a mentor who can help coach us, or to offer our own experiences to bring others along in the field so they are best prepared for success in science education leadership roles.

Credit to Page Keeley for taking amazing photos at the conference. Check out the NSELA website to view more images!

North Carolina Science Leadership Association's Science Leadership Fellows Program - A Brief History

NCSLA was formed in 1989 as an organization for North Carolina science leaders to gather, share, and contend with common science concerns and issues across the state. NCSLA’s mission is to improve leadership in science education in NC both within both public and private schools with membership open to all individuals who desire to improve science/STEM, formal or informal. As the organization took shape, its mission focused on developing an on-going pipeline of science education leaders. NCSLA inaugurated the Science Leadership Fellows Program in 1994 with funding from the Carolina Biological Supply Company. Initially it was a 1-year program, open to any science educator in the state; in 2002, the Fellows Program moved to a 2-year format. At this time, it was clear additional funding was needed. Thanks to successful on-going grant funding from the North Carolina Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Center and the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, the Fellows Program has been able to continue working to fulfill its mission.

Thank you to Pat Shane for providing this historical context. The full article can be found on the website.

ADVOCATE
Connecting with NSELA committees, events, and leaders.

Leadership Spotlight

Eric Rhoades - Collaborative Teaching and Learning Group

Eric Rhoades has a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a minor in Chemistry, and a Master of Education in Education Leadership. He is co-founder and lead consultant for the Collaborative Teaching and Learning Group. This group aims to empower partners on their journey of continuous improvement toward a student-centered approach to teaching and learning through embedded and ongoing support. Prior to this endeavor, Eric served as the Secondary Science Educational Specialist for Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) in Virginia. In this capacity, he undertook a  

multitude of responsibilities ranging from leadership development for administrators and teachers to curriculum design and program planning. One of Eric's notable achievements during his tenure at HCPS was spearheading the Center for Environmental Studies and Sustainability development focused on experiential and place-based learning in the environmentally and historically rich Varina community, showcasing his exemplary leadership skills. Eric is currently serving as President-Elect and Advocacy Chair for the Virginia Association of Science Teachers (VAST). Eric is also a current member of NSELA’s membership committee, where he plays a pivotal role in the planning and execution of the VESELS Scholarship program.

What advice do you have for those pursuing science leadership?
I think that those pursuing science leadership should think about always being in a position where they are staying informed. Being a part of organizations like NSTA and NSELA and your state affiliates can help you stay on edge regarding what is happening in science education. And you are always a part of a community. This can be a lonely job, and often you are the only one at the district level who is doing the work of promoting high-quality professional learning in science to others. You should build a culture of innovation in yourself when you take on a leadership role. To do that, you need to evaluate and reflect constantly. Think about “Where am I being effective?” “How can I be better tomorrow?” Do not take it to heart or let it hurt your feelings but asking questions as a self-evaluation or self-reflection is important. Also, be a role model. You should always demonstrate that passion for science and education and enthusiasm and commitment. Not every day is easy, but you have to be the one shining North Star, where you are always talking about what is important for students, and how we can make things better for students.

Do you have someone in mind for the Leadership Spotlight? Self-nominations are welcome! Click the button to access the submission form.

Celebrating VESELS Scholars: Shaping the Future of Science Education

We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the NSELA Vernier Emerging Science Education Leadership Scholarship (VESELS). This prestigious award recognizes the dedication and potential of individuals making significant contributions to the field of science education. Please join us in congratulating the following VESEL Scholars:

• Kayla Boykin, Johnston County Public Schools
• Stacey Cole, Spotsylvania County Public Schools
• Alex Kuziola, North Plainfield School District
• Summer Pelton, Salt Lake City School District
• Courtney Toht, Northwest Independent School District
• Nicole Vick, Northwestern University

These exceptional educators have demonstrated a commitment to excellence and innovation in their respective roles. Their passion for science education and leadership skills make them invaluable assets to their districts and the broader educational community. As VESEL Scholars, they will receive mentorship and support to develop their leadership abilities further. A highlight of their scholarship experience will be their participation in the Summer Leadership Institute in Seattle, WA, from July 16-18, 2024. This event will allow them to engage with other leaders in the field, share their experiences, and gain new insights into the future of science education.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Alex, Summer, Stacey, Courtney, Nicole, and Kayla. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make in their communities and beyond, starting with their participation in the Summer Leadership Institute. We are grateful for Vernier’s support of this remarkable program that supports mentorship and leadership development. Please stay tuned for updates on their journey as VESEL Scholars and the contributions they will undoubtedly make to the field of science education.

Earlybird Registration is Open for the Summer Leadership Institute!

Discover the future of education at the NSELA Summer Leadership Institute, taking place at the Center for Urban Horticulture in Seattle, WA from July 16-18, 2024. In collaboration with the Institute for Science and Math Education at the University of Washington Seattle, this year's institute focuses on Science Learning for Sustainable and Just Futures, addressing the urgent need for climate change education (CCE) and sustainability learning. Participants will engage in diverse climate learning activities, explore pedagogies, and develop as educational leaders to foster climate learning opportunities in their systems. Gain insights into Climate Justice, propose implementation plans using existing resources, and network with like-minded professionals. With personalized action plans in hand, attendees will leave ready to shape equitable, just, sustainable, and flourishing futures for themselves, their communities, and the world at large.

Join an NSELA Committee and Help Shape National Science Education!

At NSELA, collaboration and shared expertise are crucial in driving positive change in science education. We invite you to become a committee member and contribute to shaping our organization's direction while advancing national science education. Our three standing committees - Communications & Marketing, Membership, and Professional Learning - provide incredible opportunities for experienced educators, enthusiastic advocates, and dedicated professionals like you to share your unique skills and insights. By joining us, you can make a meaningful impact on the future of science education. Come and be a part of something meaningful! Join us today and become a valuable member of NSELA, where your contributions will shape the landscape of science education nationwide. Together, let's create a brighter future for science education.

COLLABORATE
Highlighting the work of our members, partners, and other organizations.

Featured Free Resource

CTS Research on Learning Summaries

An understanding of cognitive science, including commonly held ideas, is important for science education leaders because it provides insights into how students make sense of science concepts and phenomena before they encounter them in the classroom as well as how they make sense of them during instruction. This knowledge helps science education leaders make informed decisions about curriculum, instruction, and assessment and helps the teachers they support recognize the importance of using students’ ideas as the starting point. The Curriculum Topic Study (CTS) project has uploaded and provided free access to the CTS Section IV Research on Learning summaries. This is an ongoing work in progress and new research summaries will be added when available.

Announcements

Media Literacy Now: With funding from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Media Literacy Now created a free, searchable database of lesson plans and other instructional materials for K-12 science teachers that help students find trustworthy scientific information and resist misinformation. You can search through this web page.

Advertise in the NSELA Newsletter

Would your organization like to reach the science leadership audience that is NSELA? Or do you know of an organization that would like to advertise? View this brochure to learn more! Please pass along to your colleagues.

Would your organization like to reach the science leadership audience that is NSELA? Or do you know of an organization that would like to advertise? View this brochure to learn more! Please pass along to your colleagues.

SAFER LABS: Be Protected!
By Dr. Ken Roy, NSELA Safety Compliance Officer

Employee Rights Relative to Hazardous Chemical Injury

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