Spring 2022 Vol. 63, #3
Comeback Conference 2022
From the President
by Amy Fassler and Tracy Swedlund
WSST President, Jay Gullickson
Planning is in full swing for the 2022 Conference. Below are a few highlights: • The conference headquarters will be the Central Wisconsin Convention and Expo Center in Rothschild
Days Ahead Will Be Brighter! I sit here on a chilly (-12 F this morning) Wednesday, taking in the rays of afternoon sunlight, recovering from foot surgery this morning. I write this with full transparency. This past Monday, after “trying to reduce my weekend workload”, I had an anxiety attack, my first ever. I thought to myself, “What can I do?”, and didn’t have any answers. I journaled for an hour and after that realized how much I’ve been keeping inside - personal, family, and work issues - all building inside of me for the past two years before coming to an ugly head. Teachers of all levels, subjects, and years of experience are struggling. We collectively have faced and
• Registration is open online! Visit www.wsst.org/conference-20222 to register today! • There is a wide variety of exciting workshops throughout the 3-day conference. Workshops will be available for sign up on the registration form. • Thanks to all that have submitted proposals-we are excited about the scope continued on page 4
continued on page 4
Inside this Issue! Page 1 Page 7-11 Page 13-16 Page 17-18 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23
President’s Address & Conference Info WSST Elections WSST News Science News and Opportunities WSST Comeback Conf. Field Trips Paul Andersen: Bozeman Science WSST’s Digital Presence NASA’s Night Sky Notes
Page 2
Spring WSST Newsletter
The Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers Our Mission: Promoting, supporting and improving science education in the state of Wisconsin. Our Vision: The Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers will carry out its mission of promoting, supporting and improving science education in the state of Wisconsin by providing leadership, advocacy and programs to enhance the teaching and learning of science.
WSST Advertising Rates Full page ads: Half page ads: Quarter page ads: 1” Bottom page banner: Business card:
$250 $150 $75 $40 $25
10% discount on two or more of identical ad in current volume Advertising must be submitted to editor in camera-ready form or electronically, with check or money order (payable to WSST)
WSST Directory, 2020-2021 Jay Gullickson, President president@wsst.org Lake Shore Middle School Mequon-Thiensville School District 262-238-7631 Matt Lindsey, Past President president@wsst.org 715-321-3291 Stephanie Baker, Secretary bakeste@wc.k12.wi.us Kevin Niemi, Chief Financial Officer kjniemi@wisc.edu Tammy Dymesich, Chief Operating Officer coo@wsst.org Kevin Mason, District 1 (CESA 11 & 12) masonk@uwstout.edu Brad Wysocki, District 2 (CESA 9 & 10) bradley.wysocki@bloomer.k12.wi.us Dennis Rohr, District 3 (CESA 7 & 8) drohr@seymour.k12.wi.us Julie Lundeen, District 4 (CESA 3 & 4) lundeenj@cashton.k12.wi.us Sara Krauskopf, District 5 (CESA 2 & 5) district5@wsst.org Teri Dillenberg, District 6 (CESA 6) Cody Smith, District 7 (CESA 1) cody.smith@nbexcellence.org
Spring WSST Newsletter
Page 3
WSST Committees Awards/Recognition Miranda Dahlke (co-chair) Laura Ramthun (co-chair) Tom Davies Nancy Smith Kathy Biernat Stephanie Bartels Michelle Howe Bob Friedel Jessica Dennis Document Review Greg Bisbee (chair) Dave Bergerson
Professional Development Chad Janowski (chair) Kevin Anderson Karen Mesmer Shelley Petzold Jessica Dennis
Erik Duhn
Elementary Education Marcia Gardner (co-chair) Shelly Petzold (co-chair) Tanzeem Ali Crystal Schalliol Alice Szymik Finance Matt Lindsey
Nominations and Elections VACANT (chair) Mary Ellen Kanthack Erik Duhn Zach Pratt Matt Lindsey Dan Nelson
Terry Schwaller
Sarah Adumat
Publications Brian Bartel (co-chair) - Newsletter Editor Julie Fitzpatrick (co-chair) - Website Sarah Adumat - Newsletter Copy Editor Karyl Rosenberg - Historian Tracy Swedlund Dan Nelson Dale Basler
Foundation Brian Bartel (President) Denise McCulley (1st Vice-President) Carol Ochsner (2nd Vice-President) Dale Basler (3rd Vice-President) Tracy Swedlund (Treasurer) Steve Gustafson (Secretary)
Strategic Planning Matt Lindsey
Ray Scolavino
Kevin Niemi
WESTA Beth Allcox (chair) Dennis Rohr Margaret Guderyon
Cheryl Esslinger Jay Gullickson
Ben Sanderfoot
Higher Education VACANT (chair) Mike Beeth Lynn Diener
WSELA Kevin Niemi (chair) Kevin Anderson Gina Vogt
Amy Schiebel Josephine Mitchel
Membership Michelle Griffin-Wenzel (chair) Ray Scolavino Tracy Swedlund
WSST Conference Chairs Amy Fassler and Tracy Swedlund (co-chairs), Wausau 2022 Deanna McClung
WSST Conference Director Ray Scolavino
WSST Vendor Coordinator Rodney Dymesich
WSST Newsletter Archive Visit www.wsst.org/newsletter to download past issues of the WSST newsletter. All newsletters are in Adobe PDF format.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS. To submit a letter to the WSST Newsletter, send your thoughts via e-mail to newsletter@wsst.org Content may be edited for length, clarity and appropriateness.
Page 4
Conference •
•
•
•
• • • •
Spring WSST Newsletter
continued from page 1
and variety of proposals we have received. The Field Trip Committee has assembled an amazing set of field trips with something for everyone! Field Trips are available for sign up on the registration form. Field Trip cost is $10. See page 16 for the full list of field trips and their descriptions. The Exhibit Hall opens on Thursday night where there will be opportunities to connect with vendors and suppliers, and later there will be a chance to connect with old colleagues and meet some new ones during the President’s Social/Casino Night! Our Friday Lunch Speaker is Dr. Ed Belongia from Marshfield Clinic Labs, who will speak about Vaccine Development and Misinformation. For our Friday Banquet and Awards, there will be a buffet dinner for only $20, followed by our keynote speaker - Bozeman Science’s Paul Andersen presenting The Wonder of Science There are three hotel options: Holiday Inn & Suites WausauRothschild is adjacent to the conference center. Stoney Creek Hotel (0.2 mile away): use the code word “Science 42” Grand Lodge (0.3 mile)
President
continued from page 1
overcome so many challenges over the past two years, often at the cost of our health - both physical and emotional. It was hard. Teaching is hard. In so many ways, LIFE is hard. I miss the days before this pandemic changed so many of the things we took for granted. You know, the “good old days”. But here’s some light at the end of the tunnel. WSST is moving forward to return to those times and giving our membership an opportunity to create new memories and engage in new experiences. On April 7th, 8th, and 9th, we will once again celebrate our journeys in science education by returning to the Wausau area for our annual conference - The Comeback Conference!!! We will be once again in-person and will have a chance for all teachers and supporters of science to come together to learn, celebrate, reflect on and share our experiences from the past three years. Paul Andersen will be our featured speaker, and he is also excited to take in all the great things happening in science around
Spring WSST Newsletter
Page 5
the state of Wisconsin! I am very much looking forward to laughing, learning, and listening to friends - both old acquaintances and new ones to be made! Registration is open and accessible now through www.wsst.org. Secondly, this summer we will be hosting selected members to engage in a week of professional experiences through WINGS (Wisconsin Institute for Next Generation Science). Taking place July 17th-21st, the WSST professional development committee is planning a transformational experience that will fuel your passion for delivering highquality science learning experiences for your students. It will also serve as a pro-
fessional retreat, giving you opportunities to reflect on the impact that you are having in the profession and the next moves you can make to lead the future in your own classroom or beyond. Other than a small registration fee, this experience will be fully funded by WSST and other sponsors. With all that you have done for kids, let us do something for you! Be on the lookout for application information. Everyone, please take care of yourselves, reach out if you need help or have questions, and I look forward to seeing many of you a couple short months from now in Wausau!
2022
UW–Madison
SCIENCE EXPEDITIONS Ex pl ore sci ence
April 8-10
All events are FREE and open to the public.
Event website: science.wisc.edu/science-expeditions 20 Annual UW-Madison Science Expedi琀ons Campus Open House 2022 th
Meet the Lab is a free collection of media and activities designed to introduce middle school students to scientific research through a human lens focusing on real-world problems.
STUDENTS WILL: Make connections between lab research and why it matters in real life. Identify the scientific practices researchers use and apply these same practices to classroom experiments. Identify strengths in science, and relate to people in science careers.
EDUCATORS SAY: “I am so impressed and so happy with Meet the Lab. This is difficult material for my 8th graders and this resource makes it VERY doable and VERY interesting and VERY grade level applicable."
EXPLORE ONLINE: pbswisconsineducation.org/meetthelab
Meet the Lab was made possible through the generous support of the Timothy William Trout Education Fund – a gift of Dr. Monroe and Sandra Trout, the Focus Fund for Education, and Friends of PBS Wisconsin.
WSST Elections · February/March 2022 RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT: Kristin Michalski, Big Bend Position Statement and Vision This is my 29th year teaching science and 25th year as a WSST member. In that time, I have served as secretary on WSST’s executive board, presented at conferences, and co-chaired a conference. As the 2015 conference co-chair, I arranged our statewide conference for over 550 participants and modernized our organization by setting up online conference registration for members. In addition, I built our first conference mobile app and have done so every year since. This allowed participants to view the conference schedule digitally and receive real-time announcements. These activities positively impacted me as a learner and educator. My participation in WSST keeps me up to date on emerging technology, educational practices, and how to analyze and reflect on my teaching, increasing the equity of access for my rural students. Budgets in many districts are shrinking and WSST is one of the most valuable, little to no cost resources for teachers. I would like to bring new insights to WSST and continue to find ways to involve our members in new (low cost) tech-
nologies such as podcasts and/or webinars. Finally, students’ problem-solving skills are the forefront for tomorrow’s careers. As your president, I would support inquiry/phenomenonbased curriculum development and experiences to develop the problem solvers of tomorrow. I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to our organization as your president of the WSST organization. Background Education University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, BSBroadfield Science, University of WisconsinRiver Falls, MS-Physics Teaching Present Teaching Assignment Physics and Foundations of Chemistry and Physics Teacher, East Troy High School, East Troy, WI Professional Activities WSST Conference Planning Committee; Conference App Chair 2015-present; WSST Conference Planning Committee 2015 Cochair; Presidential Award in Excellence in Science and Mathematics State Finalist, 2017 and 2021; National Board-Certified Teacher 2008-present; and Co-facilitator of Milwaukee Area Physics Share (MAPS)
WSST Voting Districts District 1 (CESA 11 & 12) District 2 (CESA 9 & 10) District 3 (CESA 7 & 8) District 4 (CESA 3 & 4) District 5 (CESA 2 & 5) District 6 (CESA 6) District 7 (CESA 1)
WSST Elections · February/March 2022 Professional Organizations: WSST, Milwaukee Area Physics Share (MAPS), NBPTS (National Boards), Wisconsin and Association of Physics Teachers (WAPT)
2012)
Interests: Drawing pet portraits
Interests Hiking, camping, reading, yoga, triathlons, travel, spending time with my family
RUNNING FOR SECRETARY:
Professional Organizations WSST, ISTE, MESTA (Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association)
Stephanie Baker, Wonewoc
RUNNING FOR SECRETARY
Position Statement and Vision I have served on the WSST board as secretary for the past 3 years and I have really enjoyed it. WSST has long served as an advocate for science education, and I hope to contribute to positive changes and maintenance of science education in the state of Wisconsin by serving as secretary. I would like to give something back to an organization that has helped me increase my content knowledge, improve my methods, and meet many positive energetic professional teachers, etc. I have multiple teaching experiences in grades K-8 ranging from urban settings in Knoxville, TN, and La Crosse, WI, to rural Wisconsin that will help me relate/help WSST continue to help science teachers. I believe that being a member of WSST is valuable because it allows greater access to teaching resources, including convention sessions, professional development opportunities, and other teachers who can share their ideas.
Kathy Biernat, Franklin
Background Information Bachelor of Science from UW-La Crosse, Master of Arts in Instruction from Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Reading Specialist 317 Present Teaching Assignment Middle School Science at Wonewoc-Center Schools, grades 6-8 in earth, life, and physical science, Technology teacher Professional Activities WSST Secretary (2019- present), A LOT of Science physical workshop (2012-2014), UW-La Crosse physical science workshop (2015-2016), iTEAMS physical science workshop (2017-2018), TAP mentor teacher (2009-
Position Statement and Vision Yeats wrote, “Education is not the filling of a bucket, but the lighting of a fire”. Perhaps it sounds cliché to say that I dreamed of being a teacher all of my life- yet there is truth to that statement. While it took me a few tries to finally find my vocation, nothing matches the feeling when you see the fire passed to a student who is engaged in a lesson. I do not have science students. I have student scientists. This is an important difference. One student explains, “A science student sounds like someone who is reading a textbook. A student scientist is someone who is doing science”. I agree! I give students opportunities to be scientists as they learn problem-solving skills, practice teamwork skills and think outside the box. I am a facilitator - I help students make meaning out of their world and better understand nature, their bodies and the universe. I give students tools that they can use throughout their lives, no matter what direction or field they may enter. I strive to achieve a balance between engaging their hands to create and engineer and engaging their minds to hypothesize, analyze and conclude. Students must experience both success and failure. They must have the time and freedom to find their strengths and the encouragement to overcome their weaknesses. Science doesn’t always turn out the way you had hoped, but learning from a failure teaches students they don’t have to be “right” to be learning. Hands on...minds on, that’s my classroom! I have served on several national boards and
WSST Elections · February/March 2022 just completed a six year term as Secretary of the National Middle Level Science Teacher Association. I have received five national teaching awards and do professional development every chance I can. I love to present (53 local, regional or national presentations in the last 10 years) and I love to share my love of learning with everyone - from perservice and new teachers to “seasoned” teachers. The opportunity to serve as secretary of WSST would be an exciting opportunity for me. I would like to see WSST engaging more teachers with more frequent learning opportunities and social opportunities. It often feels difficult to “break in” to an organization. I would like to help teachers feel more welcome to be a part of WSST and more active in the organization. Background Education BS: Marquette University MS: University of North Texas
Association, Wisconsin Society for Science Teachers, Association for Middle Level Education (AME), American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Interests When not teaching,writing grants for classroom equipment or looking up at the night sky, I can be found on a boat somewhere with my family! We have sailed the Keys in Florida, the Great Lakes and the British Virgin Islands, taken a houseboat out for week long voyages and put a lot of hours on the pontoon boat and canoes most of the summer is spent in beautiful northern Wisconsin catching rays and fish!
RUNNING FOR SECRETARY: Terry Schwaller, Appleton
Position Statement and Vision My name is Terry Schwaller and I am running for the position of WSST Secretary, because I Present Teaching Assignment feel strongly about WSST’s mission to support I teach at Notre Dame School of Milwaukee, on science education and educators throughout the Mother Theresa Campus. My direct teaching Wisconsin. for the 2021-22 school year is for approximately I had the privilege of serving as the Co-Chair 100 fifth through eighth grade boys and I proof the Awards and Recognition Committee from vide STEM lessons to the approximately 200 2015-2019. Over the course of those years, I first through 4th grade coed students. We are was able to attend many WSST Board meetings proud of our school and its growth- it was and learn not only about the workings of our founded in 1996 with only 26 girls and we now organization, but also to get to know and work boast over 550 students in K4-8th grade. I also with some incredible people. Since the window have my own consulting company, Zanilu of operations for my committee was fairly short, Educational Services. Most recently, I have been I was able to spend a lot of time focused on the writing curriculum for Estes Model Rockets. discussions and issues facing WSST and science education in general. Professional Activities When I stepped down from that position, I 2016-present Secretary/ Board Member, knew it was time not only for someone else to National Middle Level Teachers Association; leave their mark on the Awards and Recognition 2020-present Teacher mentor, Next Generation Science Teacher Program; 2018-present Teacher Committee, but to also find my next challenge. Little did I know at the time that the world mentor, Supporting Teachers Entering the would get turned upside down as a pandemic Profession; 2016- 2017 Chairperson, NSTA swept the world. Now, as we settle into our ever Aerospace Advisory Board; 2016-present changing “new normal,” I feel like it is time to WSST, Awards and Recognition Committee go after that next challenge, which for me is Professional Organizations seeking the position of WSST Secretary. National Science Teacher Association The WSST Constitution says, “the purpose of National Middle Level Science Teacher the organization shall be the advancement, stim-
WSST Elections · February/March 2022 ulation, extension, improvement and coordination of science education in all fields of science at all educational levels,”and it is my goal as Secretary to embrace the tenets of our constitution. I am a strong supporter of encouraging new educators to join WSST to help with their professional growth. I am also a strong supporter of increased access to materials and professional development for our elementary and rural educators, who often have a hard time accessing what they need to succeed in science education. And, of course, I support any ideas that advance science education that can positively impact the students in our classrooms. As Secretary of WSST, not only would I be responsible to fulfill the duties of the position, but also to help fulfill the purpose of the organization that I am passionate about. Background Education Bachelor’s Degree in Broad Field Physical Science Secondary Education, UW-River Falls, 2003; Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction (Physics Emphasis), UW-Oshkosh, 2010 Present Teaching Assignment Shiocton High School (2003 - present): Physical Science, Physics, Chemistry Professional Activities Shiocton Principal’s Action Committee, Member 2019-present; ACT Practice Coordinator and Committee Chair - Shiocton High School, 2018present; WSST Finance Sub-Committee Member 2018-present; Phox Valley Physical Science and Physics Share Group, Webmaster 2016-present; WSST Awards and Rec Committee Co-Chair 2015-2019 (Member 20142015) Professional Organizations Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers, American Modeling Teachers Association, National Science Teachers Association, Phox Valley Physics/Physical Science Share Group Interests Hunting, fishing, hiking, reading, all things SciFi!
RUNNING FOR DISTRICT 1 Erik Duhn, Manawa Position Statement and Vision I have been a member of WSST since 2017. As soon as I joined I was drawn into participating in the documents review committee. After a while there, I have tried to take a more active role by switching to the nominations committee. Since my very first moment of meeting members of WSST, it has been a joy to get to know all the members. I am glad to have joined and I want to spread this enthusiasm in my district. While I am not in the district physically, I hope to get members of the district together and promote the message of WSST. Background Education B.S. Natural Science-Physical Science, Minors in Physics, Chemistry, and Math: University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point; B.A. Physics Education: University of Northern Iowa; M.S. Chemistry-Chemistry Education: South Dakota State University Present Teaching Assignment Science Teacher - iForward Charter School Professional Activities Science Teaching Snapshot Presenter 2019 Professional Organizations WSST, WEAC, AAAS, Phi Kappa Phi, EAA Interests Running, Hunting, Outdoors
RUNNING FOR DISTRICT 1 Kevin Mason, Chippewa Falls Position Statement Vision My vision for the Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers is to develop relationships, resources, and collaboration that supports science teachers to become effective and reflective practitioners. Background Education Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, Major: Science Education, Minor:
WSST Elections · February/March 2022 Chemistry, September 2001-May 2009; Master of Education, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, Major: Science Education, June 1996-May 2001; Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, Major: Chemistry, June 1994-May 1996 Present Teaching Assignment Professor of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Stout Professional Activities • University of Wisconsin-Stout, Professor of Education (2009-present), School of Education Assessment Coordinator (20182021), School of Education edTPA Coordinator (2015-2018), Program Director of Science Education (2006-2020), Associate Lecturer of Science Education (2006-2009) • Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, Rice Lake, Chemistry Instructor, June 2006May 2011 • University of Wisconsin-Madison, Supervisor of Student Teachers, August 2003-May 2004 • Middleton High School: Chemistry and Physics Teacher (2001-2003), Head High School Boys Track and Field Coach (20012004), Head Middle School Boys and Girls Cross-Country Coach (2001-2004) • Chippewa Falls High School, Chemistry and Physics Teacher (1997-2001), Head High School Boys and Girls Cross-Country Coach (1998-2001), Assistant High School Boys and Girls Cross-Country Coach (19971998), Assistant High School Boys and Girls
Track and Field Coach (1997-2001), Advisor of High School Cross-Country Ski Club (1997-2001) Professional Organizations Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers, National Science Teachers Association, American Associate of Colleges for Teacher Education
RUNNING FOR DISTRICT 4 Jonathan Baker, Wonewoc Position Statement and Vision I am currently in my fourth year of teaching science at Wonewoc-Center High School, a very rural district in the southwestern portion of the state. Here, I am the only high school science teacher in the building and am therefore responsible for a wide variety of courses, ranging from biology to earth science to chemistry. Having this diverse teaching load, in addition to starting this career later in life and in a non-traditional route, I have had to rely upon the advice and assistance of many individuals to develop and strengthen my content knowledge and professional teaching practices. In particular, my experiences with WSST have provided me opportunities to meet many brilliant and enthusiastic educators and accelerated my growth as a professional. Looking through the newsletter archives, it is clear that WSST has long served as a central resource for science educators in our state. The organization affords many opportunities to its members, such as conferences, field experiences, grants, and networking. While the past
Vote online at www.wsst.org by April 1
WSST Elections · February/March 2022 couple of years have been challenging to all educators, I believe that WSST has done an excellent job in navigating the hardships of this time through providing many virtual events to its members. As a district director, I would continue to promote the organization to teachers in my district and help to further develop and implement its many resources. As WSST is a solely volunteer organization, it is necessary for us as members to look towards widening the organization and involving the next generation of educators who will one day serve as our leadership. As part of promoting our organization, I also believe that we should strive to be fully inclusive. While WSST has become much more gender balanced, our organization is far from diverse. It is our responsibility to serve as a voice for those cultures, races, ethnicities and other underrepresented groups and advocate for their inclusion not only in our organization, but also in our classrooms and science as a whole.
®
is proud to be a Certified Distributor of curriculum materials from • Easy to Use Equipment Kits • Interactive Digital Edition • Books and Print Materials • Professional Development
For a free demo of the OpenSciEd Interactive Digital Edition from Activate Learning, scan with your smartphone camera:
cweller@activatelearning.com
| 708-205-5691
Background Education B.S. in Archaeological Studies, UW-La Crosse; M.A. in Anthropology with an emphasis in Zooarchaeology and Statistics, University of Tennessee Present Teaching Assignment Science Teacher, Wonewoc-Center High School Professional Activities Instructor, FBI Human Remains Recovery Training School, University of Tennessee Participant, Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association and WSST Joint Field Geological Field Experience (summer 2021) Collaborator, Freshwater Mussel Survey of the Baraboo River, Wisconsin DNR Professional Organizations WSST, Michigan Earth Science Teachers Association, Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society Interests Camping, canoeing/kayaking, cooking, freshwater mussels, archaeology, home brewing
Spring WSST Newsletter
Page 13
WSST NEWS Historian’s Corner: Time for Future WSST Stories!
of the middle schools in my previous school district who I got to know through both of our involvement with the Badger By Karyl Rosenberg Science and Engineering Fair. She wantGreetings to all! I was ed to know some details about conference wondering what sort registration and hotel rooms because she of field trip memories is part of a team doing a presentation; might turn up this this will be her first WSST conference as issue, but with all the well. crazy busyness of the It is very exciting to have played a role end of semesters and in getting these two excellent teachers colleagues being out and good friends involved with WSST. I sick, I totally underlook forward to spending time with them stand where everybody’s minds are! at the “Come Back Conference”, introHowever, something really nice hapducing them to other members and pened to me over the past week that fits encouraging them to continue their with my tasks as historian and as a proud involvement. They will, I am sure, have longtime WSST member. We have many wonderful stories to share in the always been encouraged to get our colfuture. leagues to attend conferences and become active in the organization, but often wonder what will it take to accomplish that. Well, I don’t have a specific answer other ALL K-12 STUDENTS SHOULD KNOW than keep trying and suddenly, amazing things can happen. Let me share my experiences. First, I went out of my way to contact my district director about a person new to the alternative school for autism spectrum students where I have subbed, since she indicated an interest in learning more about science for her exceptional 6th through 12th grade students. She received Our essential STEM education resources a complimentary WSST membership are free to download. from the district director and is planning on attending her first conference this www.nap.edu year. Soon after that, I got a message from a gifted and talented coordinator from one
TEACH THE SCIENCE
A00798 Teach the Science Ad_3x4.indd 1
12/17/21 4:31 PM
Page 14
Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Essay Contest
Spring WSST Newsletter
Stevens Point, and on www.wsst.org. All events and the web posting will be the first weekend in April.
Write an essay on the topic given for your grade level. Deadline: March 1, 2022
Eligibility Any classroom teacher in Wisconsin can submit Grade Level Topics one student essay for each science course they Grades K-1: What can each of us do to help pro- teach. Student essays must be original work and be submitted in one of four categories: K-1, 2-3, tect our lakes and rivers? 4-5, 6-8, and 9-12. *Submitting teacher is Grades 2-3: What laws in Wisconsin help to prorequired to be a current WSST member. tect our lakes and rivers? What can all of us do, Format as individual citizens, to help protect our lakes K-1 category: Essays should be between 150and rivers so people in the future can enjoy 300 words and can include a picture. K-1 teachthem? ers can help with the conversion of spoken essay Grades 4-5: What laws in Wisconsin help to proto text. All other essays should be 500 words or tect Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers? How do you less in length. The essays are required to be think science helped people develop these laws? typed, 12 point font, and double spaced. Grades: 6-8: How do policymakers use science Text to speech and other adaptations may be to help protect Wisconsin’s water bodies? made at any grade level based on a student’s Grades: 9-12: How does science inform policies Individualized Education Program. that protect Wisconsin’s water bodies?
Submission
Awards The winning essay in each category will receive a $100 prize and publication in the WSST newsletter and website. The teacher of the winning submission will also receive a $100 prize. Additional highly rated essays may be published to the WSST website at the discretion of the contest organizers, as well as shared with the water community through the Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Partnership’s Lake Tides publication. Results will be announced at the 2022 WSST Comeback Conference in Wausau, the 2022 Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention in
Submissions should be emailed as ONE file that includes both the essay and release form in .pdf format to essay@wsst.org. All submissions must be received by 5:00 pm (CST) on March 1, 2022. Essays submitted after 5:00 pm (CST) on March 1, 2022, are longer than 500 words, or do not include a signed release form may be disqualified. Submissions that cannot be read will not be judged. The decisions of the judges are final. Visit www.wsst.org/science-matters for more information, to download the essay flier with release form and see past essay award winners.
Spring WSST Newsletter
Page 15
Join Us at The Wisconsin Institute For Next Generation Science! Is it time for a recharge? Science teaching can be exhilarating and rewarding. It can also be tough to help all students develop a deep understanding of complex science concepts. Wisconsin’s premiere professional development learning opportunity is coming once again! Veteran educators might reminisce about the impact that Science World had on their careers. WSST’s current leaders can speak about the incredible networking and learning that took place at Science Futures. Now you can be a part of WINGS, the Wisconsin Institute for Next Generation Science! The WSST professional development committee is planning a transformational experience that will fuel your passion for delivering high quality science learning experiences for your students. It will also serve as a professional retreat, giving you opportunities to reflect on the impact that you are having in the profession and the next moves you can make to lead the future in your
own classroom or beyond. Other than a small registration fee, this experience will be fully funded by WSST and other sponsors. With all that you have done for kids, let us do something for you! 5 cohorts of 25 Wisconsin science educators will be selected to participate over the next 5 years. The main objectives are the development of excellence in instructional delivery and the cultivation of leadership in the classroom and beyond. The networking and professional learning will strengthen the community of science educators and elevate the quality of science instruction in the state. The first cohort of WINGS is taking place July 17 - 21st, 2022 at the former Conserve School in Land O’Lakes, Wisconsin. Applications are currently open at bit.ly/WINGS2022 and will close on April 12th. More details, including the daily agenda, will be released soon on the WSST website. Take some time for your professional growth and rejuvenation this summer with other WI science educators.
WINGS WIN GS 2022 Wisconsin Institute for Next Generation Science
Recharge your passion for science education!
WSST & Sponsor Covered Event $75 Reservation Fee
Applications Now Open at https://bit.ly/WINGS2022 The Wisconsin Institute for Next Generation Science (WINGS) is a WSST professional development experience. 5 cohorts of 25 Wisconsin science educators will be selected to participate over the next 5 years. The main objectives are the development of excellence in instructional delivery and the cultivation of leadership in the classroom and beyond. The networking and professional learning will strengthen the community of science educators and elevate the quality of science instruction in the state.
July 17-21, 2022 | Conserve School | Land O’Lakes, WI
Page 16
Rock Raffle Donations needed for WESTA (Wisconsin Earth Science Teachers Association) Do you have fossils, minerals, or rock samples that you no longer need and are only taking up valuable space in your classroom? We invite you to donate them to the WESTA Rock Raffle to be held during the Vendor’s Social on Thursday, April 7th inside of the Vendor Hall from 4 – 5:30pm. Raffle tickets will be 4 for $1 or 25 for $5. Drawing will take place at 5:30pm. Contact Dennis Rohr, Seymour HS, (drohr@seymour.k12.wi.us) or Beth Allcox, New Holstein HS (ballcox@nhsd.k12.wi.us) if you have any questions or have items that you would like to donate. Donations can be dropped off at the Conference Registration desk up to 3pm on Thursday April 7th. All proceeds will be used by WESTA to promote Earth Science education and professional development opportunities throughout Wisconsin for educators of all levels.
WSST Equipment Swap at Comeback Conference Do you have science lab equipment, lab kits, or supplies that are not being used in your science classroom? Give them a new home with another science teacher who is in need of that equipment or supplies by donating them to the WSST Equipment Swap. Bring the items with you to the Conference and drop them off at the Registration Desk. If you have any questions or have items that you would like to donate, please contact Dennis Rohr (drohr@seymour.k12.wi.us)
Spring WSST Newsletter
Do you know Einstein? Curriculum Kit Leasing Professional Learning Makerspace Kits & Programs
einsteinproject.org
Thank you, educators, for all that you do! Join us at this year’s Wisconsin Science Festival.
OCTOBER 10-16 2022 WiSciFest.org | #WiSciFest
Spring WSST Newsletter
Page 17
SCIENCE NEWS AND OPPORTUNITIES Biotechnology Courses at BTC Institute – Stipends Available
grate biotechnology into your curriculum.
Biotechnology: The Basics July 25-29, 2022; 9:00am-4:00pm, lunch provided. Are you interested in incorporating biotechnology topics in your teaching? If your knowledge of biotechnology is limited or you want to brush up on basic biotechnology techniques, this is the course for you! This one-week laboratory-based course is designed to introduce teachers to the fundamentals of biotechnology. Topics include: DNA structure and function, DNA extraction, micropipetting, gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme digestion, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), bacterial transformation, bioethics, biofuels & biomanufacturing, stem cells, careers and training in biotechnology, and NASA & biotechnology. In addition, there will be opportunities to develop your laboratory preparatory skills and collaborate with other teachers to inte-
For both courses: Enrollment is limited to 16 participants, who may be eligible to receive a $500 stipend, see online registration form for details on how to apply. The deadline for application is June 17, 2022. Applications will be reviewed first comefirst served and, if not all awards are made June 17th the application process will remain open. In order to receive a stipend, teachers must submit a 2-3 page summary report to the BTC Institute during Academic Year 2022-2023 that documents how selected course content was implemented with students and colleagues. GRADUATE EDUCATION CREDITS: will be an optional choice for both courses, paid for by the participant. LOCATION: BTC Institute, 5445 East Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI. Discounted lodging available nearby. DETAILS & REGISTRATION: Please visit https://www.btci.org/ or contact Barbara Bielec, barbara.bielec@btci.org
Biotechnology: Beyond the Basics Looking to incorporate more biotechnology July 11-15, 2022; 9:00am-4:00pm, lunch into your curriculum? The BTC Institute in provided. Have you mastered gel electrophoresis? Madison is offering a couple of weeklong Are you ready to take the next steps? summer courses to help you reach that goal! Both courses are offered for stipends This one-week laboratory-based course is designed for teachers to learn and practice and optional graduate education credit. advanced biotechnology techniques used in See: https://www.btci.org/k-12programs/programs-for-teachers/ for details molecular biology. Topics include: gene expression, protein purification, immunand registration. odetection, genetic identity testing, epigenetics, genomic editing (CRISPR/Cas9), bioinformatics, DNA sequencing, NASA & biotechnology, biomanufacturing, careers and training in biotechnology
Page 18
Spring WSST Newsletter
Climate Change Online Resources and beyond. Participants will receive the Teaching middle and high school students about climate change involves helping students make sense of data, draw connections between complex topics, listen to opposing viewpoints, and think critically about information. Participants in LEAF’s new Teaching About Climate Change: Online Resources for Middle and High School Educators course will delve into strategies and curriculum materials designed to help bring students to a deeper understanding of the topic. Participants will receive access to Project Learning Tree’s Carbon & Climate middle school e-unit, a digital copy of Project Learning Tree’s Southeastern Forests and Climate Change high school module, a physical copy of LEAF’s Wisconsin Forestry Lesson Guide at either the 7th-8th or 9th12th grade level, and a kit with classroom supplies. Participants have 45 days from registration to complete the module, which should take approximately 7 hours. OnDemand, online, cost $50, Register here: go.asapconnected.com/?org=4921#EventID= 2074789.
Fire and Our Forests - 2022 Fire is a hot topic both worldwide and locally in Wisconsin. Did you know that the Wisconsin DNR has responded to on average more than 700 wildland fire calls each year since 2016!? In 2021, more than 1,000 fires burned over 2,500 acres. As people continue to move into forested areas, the potential for loss of property and lives increases. Yet, fire plays an important natural role in many forest ecosystems. Join LEAF for a Wildland Fire Education workshop where grades 6-12 educators will explore the history, socio-cultural issues, management, including prescribed burns and current status of wildland fire in Wisconsin
LEAF’s Wisconsin K-12 Wildland Fire Lesson Guide, Project Learning Tree’s Environmental Education Activity Guide, and other useful classroom resources. Activities will also include a tour of Treehaven’s fire ecology research plots. Wednesday, March 16 | 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. |
Receive a FREE Sand-tank Groundwater Model for your School or Nature Center We are now accepting applications to attend one of the 2022 Groundwater Model Workshops and receive a FREE Hands-on Groundwater Model to use with your students. This is a great way to guide student learning and meet NGSS standards! You will receive resources to teach lessons specific to Wisconsin geology and groundwater management concerns. In addition to receiving a groundwater model (value $1100), there is money available to cover a substitute teacher if needed to attend. These one-day workshops run from 9AM to 3PM. Only 20 groundwater models are available, all applications received prior to the deadline will be considered. Workshop Dates (only need to attend one): Wednesday, April 13th, 2022 at the UWSP at Wausau Campus, Wausau from 9am-3pm Wednesday, April 20th, 2022 at the WGNHS Core Repository, Mt. Horeb from 9am-3pm Wednesday, June 15th, 2022 at the Menzel Pavilion at Schmeeckle Reserve, Stevens Point - outdoor covered venue from 9am3pm The APPLICATION DEADLINE IS MARCH 1, 2022! The application only takes 10-15 minutes to complete. Visit the website www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/watershed/Pages/ GroundwaterModelWorkshop.aspx for more details.
The UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources
PHENOMENA Elise Education Coordinator Monk Botanical Gardens Katherine Interpretation Ranger Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Valley
Brian Director of Education South Carolina Aquarium
CLAIM
EVIDENCE
REASONING
Our graduates work across the globe in various natural resource 昀elds and the paper science and engineering industry.
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources has 13,000 alumni, over 1,700 undergraduate, and 180 faculty and staff.
The Centers and Programs of UW-Stevens Point’s College of Natural Resources are committed to the success of all learners, providing hands-on experiences and in-the-昀eld know how.
Find us in the exhibit hall! • College of Natural Resources Student Success Center • Wisconsin Forestry Center • The Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education - LEAF-Wisconsin’s K-12 Forestry Education Program - KEEP-Wisconsin’s K-12 Energy Education Program
Page 20
Spring WSST Newsletter
WSST Field Trips for the Comeback Conference
April 7, 2022 1:00-3:00 PM FT 4 - Granite Peak Ski Area & Rib Mountain State Park
All times include travel. Bus will leave at the time listed, so arrive a few minutes early. Limit 30 unless otherwise listed.
Take a behind the scenes tour of Granite Peak Ski Area. Learn how snow-making can be affected by many factors and the chemistry behind the process. We will tour the facility and get an up close and personal look at the operations that make a ski resort work!
Thursday, April 7 9:45 - Noon FT 1 - Woodson Art Museum, Limit 30 Come visit an amazing art museum in an historic mansion with complimentary modern additions in Wausau’s east hill Historic District. Leigh Yawkey Woodson was the wife of a turn of the 19th century Wausau businessman who collected art with connections to nature. She and her family were friends with Owen J. Gromme, the well known artist of “Birds of Wisconsin” who encouraged Mrs. Woodson’s daughter to create a museum of her mother’s extensive collection of nature art, including many of his bird paintings. The museum opened in 1975 and has annually hosted the nationally known show “Birds in Art” for over 40 years. In addition to this event, the museum has developed highly creative STEAM activities for schools in central Wisconsin and has regular traveling exhibits of a wide range of artistic products. During our time in Wausau it will be hosting an exhibition of early 20th century glass objects. If the weather is nice, stroll the lovely sculpture garden.
FT 2 - Northcentral Technical College Robotics Tour
Friday, April 8 10:30am - 1:30 PM FT 5 - Stoney Acres Farm & Microbrew Stoney Acres is not just a farm, it's a farmomenon! Visit a 3rd generation family farm that is as dynamic a farm as exists. Tour the microbrewery, renewable energy systems, certified organic CSA farm, and maple syrup operations. Relax with an Athens Light or Bock Joy while enjoying a couple slices of pizza from the woodfired brick oven. Pizza night at Stoney Acres has been featured on Wisconsin Foodie and draws folks from around the state every weekend between April and November! This field trip includes one beverage and pizza for lunch.
Friday, April 8 9 AM - Noon FT 6 - Dells of the Eau Claire River & Ice Age Trail, Limit 30
Visit a place where precambrian hard rock geology Tour Northcentral Technical College to learn more about the meets pleistocene glacial deposits. One of the more striking small parks in central Wisconsin, visitors will NTC campus and the robotics they use in their labs. This see the Eau Claire river wind its way through ancient tour will feature robotics in the manufacturing programs such as the electromechanical/automation and welding labs, meta-volcanic rocks in a series of rapids and falls. Walk along with a trip out to the Agriculture Center to see the dif- along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail to note how the ferent robotics that help with daily chores such as the robotic signature Wisconsin Glacier interacted with the ancient rocks. Amazing vistas, great photo opportunities. milker, the robotic calf feeding system, and much more. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking clothing! NOTE: No Thursday, April 7 12:45-4:30 OR 2-4:30 PM restroom on site as our trip will be a preseason visit.
FT 3 - School Forest Tour (s) and Sawmill Demonstration Did you know that the Wisconsin School Forest program was the first in the nation? Established in 1928 as part of the Community Forest Law, there are over 400 school forests! Tour two Central Wisconsin School forests with near daily programming for their K-8 students. Twin Oaks School Forest of DC Everest, established in 1979 and the Wausau School Forest established in 1942. Tour the grounds, lodge, museum, special exhibits, and a demonstration of Wausau School District’s portable Wood Mizer sawmill used in their high school Career and Technical Education courses. Come gather ideas for your school forest!
Friday, April 8 12:45 - 2:45 PM FT 7 - Biomass Cogeneration Plant @ Domtar Rothschild Mill, limit 20 Tour this renewable energy plant that burns clean wood waste from saw/lumber/paper mills, forest residue, and right-of-way clearnings to power generators that supply up to 50 MW electricity to the Domtar paper mill and some local residential areas.
Spring WSST Newsletter
Page 21
Bozeman Science Keynote Speaker for Comeback Conference Don’t miss Paul Andersen at the 2022 Comeback Conference in Wausau. Paul will be the Keynote Speaker for the Milton Pella Banquet on Friday, April 8, and will also be presenting some sessions during the conference. Make sure talk to your administration so you can go to Wausau in April!
Paul Andersen is an educational consultant and YouTube creator living in Bozeman, MT. Paul is an experienced educator having taught science in Montana for 20 years. Paul was the 2011 Montana Teacher of the Year, and was also one of four finalists for the 2011 National Teacher of the Year. In addition to teaching Paul has created hundreds of YouTube science tutorials that have been viewed millions of times by students around the world. Paul has provided training for thousands of students, teachers, and administrators around the world. Paul enjoys providing meaningful professional development that can be applied immediately in the classroom.
Page 22
Spring WSST Newsletter
WSST’s Digital Presence
www.wsst.org
www.twitter.com/wiscienceteach
www.facebook.com/wiscienceteach/
Spring WSST Newsletter
Hang Out with the Twins of Gemini
Page 23
years away. It’s almost the size of a full Moon in our skies! Optical aid like binoculars or a telescope reveals the cluster’s brilliant member stars. Once you spot M35, look around to see if you can spot another by David Prosper open cluster, NGC 2158, much smaller and more disThe night skies of February are filled with beautiful tant than M35 at 9,000 light-years away. Another star patterns, and so this month we take a closer look notable object is NGC 2392, a planetary nebula creat another famous constellation, now rising high in ated from the remains of a dying star, located about the east after sunset: Gemini, the Twins! 6,500 light-years distant. You’ll want to use a teleIf you’re observing Orion, as discussed in scope to find this intriguing faint fuzzy, locatlast month’s article, then Gemini is easy to ed near the “left hip” star Wasat. find: just look above Orion’s “head” to find Gemini’s stars are referenced quite often in Gemini’s “feet.” Or, make a line from brilcultures around the world, and even in the liant blue-white Rigel in the foot of Orion, history of space exploration. NASA’s famed through its distinct “Belt,” and then on Gemini program took its name from these through orange Betelgeuse. Keep going and you will stars, as do the appropriately named twin Gemini end up in between the bright stars Castor and Pollux, North and South Observatories in Hawaii and Chile. the “heads” of the Gemini Twins. While not actually You can discover more about Gemini’s namesakes related – these stars aren’t bound to each other, and along with the latest observations of its stars and are almost a magnitude apart in brightness – they do related celestial objects at nasa.gov. pair up nicely when compared to their surrounding stars. Take note: more than one stargazer has confused Gemini with its next-door neighbor constellation, Auriga. The stars of Auriga rise before Gemini’s, and its brightest star, Capella, doesn’t pair up as strikingly with its second most brilliant star as Castor and Pollux do. Star-hop to Gemini from Orion using the trick above if you aren’t sure which constellation you’re looking at. Pollux is the brighter of Gemini’s two “head” stars - imagine it has the head of the “left twin” - and located about 34 light-years away from our Solar System. Pollux even possesses a planet, Pollux b, over twice the mass of Jupiter. Castor - the head of the “right twin” - by contrast, lies about 51 light-years distant and is slightly dimmer. While no planets have been detected, there is still plenty of company as Castor is actually a Castor and Pollux are Gemini’s most prominent stars, and often six-star system! There are several referred to as the “heads” of the eponymous twins from Greek myth. great deep-sky objects to observe as In Chinese astronomy, these stars make up two separate patterns: the well. You may be able to spot one Vermillion Bird of the South and the White Tiger of the North. What with your unaided eyes, if you have do you see? The Night Sky Network’s “Legends in the Sky” activity dark skies and sharp eyes: M35, a includes downloadable “Create Your Own Constellation” handouts large open cluster near the “right so you can draw your own star stories: bit.ly/legendsinthesky. Image foot” of Gemini, about 3,870 lightcreated with assistance from Stellarium.
WSST Newsletter 192 Depot Road Cambridge, WI 53523
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Volume 63, No. 3 Published in Appleton, Wisconsin Editing & Layout: Brian Bartel Publisher: Kevin Niemi
DUES EXPIRE ON DATE PRINTED
Submissions to the Newsletter If you wish to contribute to the WSST Newsletter or place an advertisement, please forward items to Newsletter Editor, Brian Bartel, Morgan Building, 120 East Harris St, Appleton, WI 54911. The preferred method of submission is by e-mail at newsletter@wsst.org. Please send as text or Microsoft Word Document.
WSST Calendar 2022 Conference, Central WI Convention Center, Wausau April 7-9, 2022 WSST Spring Board Meeting Wausau April 9, 2022
For advertising rates, visit www.wsst.org/newsletter.
Join us or check your account Stay informed and get connected with the largest professional society for teachers of science in Wisconsin. Regular Membership in WSST is only $25 per year, Retired teacher annual membership is $15.00, and Student annual membership is $10.00. Visit www.wsst.org/join to join today.
2021-2022 Newsletter Deadlines Fall: Friday, August 27, 2021 Winter*: Friday, November 12, 2021 Spring*: Friday, January 28, 2022 Summer*: Friday, April 8, 2022 *These will be digital issues only
To check on your WSST account, change your address or school, visit www.wsst.org and click on My Account.
More WSST Information can be found at www.wsst.org