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!

September 2024

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EDUCATE
Keeping current with news in science education.

Board Corner

Starting this month, the President's Corner is becoming the Board Corner. Each month, a different member of the board will be featured in an effort to share their goals with the broader NSELA membership.

Carolyn Higgins - Region A Director

STEM Specialist at the Rhode Island Department of Education.

Image: Carolyn on a trip to Shenandoah National Park.

What is your current NSELA board position? What responsibilities are involved with this position?

I am the Region A Director until 2025. In this position, I am the liaison between members in my region and NSELA. Region A includes the 6 six New England states plus New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I also work to spread the word of NSELA to science education leaders who are not familiar with the organization.

Why did you want to volunteer for your current NSELA board position?

I was asked to be a part of NSELA since I have been involved with other education associations, such as NSTA. I consider myself a lifelong learner, and have always found conferences and other professional events to be motivating. As part of NSELA, I am able to network with other leaders from around the country and learn about new initiatives.

What is one goal you have for this year in your NSELA board position? How can the NSELA membership support you with this goal?

My goal is to increase awareness of the NSELA organization in science education networks. Membership could support by sharing NSELA event invitations with colleagues and encouraging them to join! Networking with educators outside of your typical circle will give you new perspectives and valuable ideas to bring back home.

What is one thing you’d like NSELA members to know about you? 

I love to travel and meet new people - being a part of organizations like NSELA has allowed me to do this while learning from others. I encourage others to get involved in education associations and build their network!

ADVOCATE
Connecting with NSELA committees, events, and leaders.

Leadership Spotlight

Courtney Toht - Northwest Independent School District Secondary Science Coordinator, Texas (right)

Melissa Niemi - Secondary Science Content Specialist Muscogee County School District, Georgia (left)

In this Leadership Spotlight, we shine a light on the dynamic mentor-mentee relationship between Melissa Niemi and Courtney Toht, two passionate science educators and leaders. Both are participants in the VESEL Scholars program, a prestigious initiative designed to foster leadership in science education. Through a series of reflective questions, Melissa and Courtney share insights into their journeys, successes, and aspirations.

What is your proudest leadership achievement?

One of Courtney's proudest achievements as a leader has been the successful training of numerous school campuses on 3D learning targets. This approach, which integrates disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and science practices, has been pivotal in enhancing science education in her district.

Melissa takes pride in her work to strengthen professional learning communities (PLCs) across her district. She has not only established monthly PLC meetings but also created mentorship roles within these communities to provide ongoing support. This year, her focus is on implementing the 5E lesson plan model, a teaching framework that emphasizes engagement, exploration, explanation, elaboration, and evaluation.

What was your motivation to apply for the VESEL program?

Courtney was encouraged to join the VESEL program by Derek McDowell, an NSELA board member and Kelly Saurez, her elementary counterpart. Their support inspired her to seek mentorship and guidance in her evolving leadership role. Courtney hopes to gain valuable support and advice from the VESEL program, particularly in navigating the multifaceted challenges of her ever-evolving role as a science education leader.

Melissa's motivation to become a mentor in the VESEL program stemmed from her own positive experiences with mentorship. Having benefited greatly from the guidance of a mentor earlier in her career, she felt compelled to offer the same support to someone else.

What initial advice do you have as a mentor?

Melissa's advice to Courtney as she embarks on her journey in the VESEL program is to remain open to new ideas and never hesitate to ask questions. This openness and curiosity are essential for growth and success in any leadership role.

The mentor-mentee relationship between Melissa Niemi and Courtney Toht exemplifies the power of collaboration and shared learning in the field of science education. Through their participation in the VESEL program, both are poised to continue making significant contributions to their districts and the broader science education community.

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

Election Nominations to Open Soon!

Election time for NSELA is coming soon!

The NSELA nominations portal will open later in September for this year’s cycle taking office June 1, 2025. Open positions will be:

• President-Elect

• Region A Director

• Region C Director

So it’s time to start thinking about nominating yourself or a colleague for the NSELA Board of Directors. Watch for more details later this month!

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.

Free Resource

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.

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

Potential Biological, Chemical, and Physical Waste

Science instructional space and associated area waste disposal protocols are critical for ensuring the safer handling and proper disposal of various types of waste generated during hands-on laboratory activities and demonstrations.   

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