Home » WKU hosting National Stem Cell Foundation Scholars Program for middle school science teachers

WKU hosting National Stem Cell Foundation Scholars Program for middle school science teachers

Application deadline April 15

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (March 15, 2016) — The Gatton Academy and The Center for Gifted Studies will host 10 middle school science teachers from across the U.S. to participate in the National Stem Cell Foundation Scholars Program from June 5-11 at Western Kentucky University.

National Stem Cell Foundation is a non-profit that supports research and clinical trial collaborations in the field of adult stem cell research and regenerative medicine.

“We know that children who become excited about science in middle school are the ones who will pursue science in high school and major in science at the college level,” said Dr. Paula Grisanti, National Stem Cell Foundation chairman, “We believe this collaboration is a ‘best in class’ opportunity to fund professional development for teachers who will inspire the next generation of STEM kids nationwide.”

During the week-long program, scholars will engage in hands-on, minds-on science activities; connect with speakers and thought leaders in STEM education; learn with skilled science educators; and develop a creative Challenge Project for classroom implementation. Each scholar will receive a Chromebook and funding for Challenge Project supplies and materials.

In addition, scholars will spend three days during the month of January 2017 in Washington, D.C., to share midpoint insights and progress with their colleagues, and then return to WKU in June 2017 to share lessons learned with the next Scholar class.

Mentoring will be provided throughout the year by WKU faculty. All expenses, including travel costs, materials, mentoring and Challenge Project supplies will be provided by a grant from the National Stem Cell Foundation.

Applications are due by April 15.