Transforming Our DNA - 2016 Annual Report

Outreach & Equity

COMMUNITY BUILDING AT THE RESEARCH TEACHERS CONFERENCE

The Society’s annual Research Teachers Conference, sponsored by Regeneron, doubled in size in 2016, bringing together 200 STEM research teachers from45 states across the U.S. The Society brings these teachers to Washington, D.C., with all expenses paid, for a weekend of sharing best practices, trou- bleshooting challenges and connecting with other teachers for future collaboration. It has become clear that this conference is building a support system for research teachers that benefits them year-round. Rebecca Nyquist, amember of Dr. Angela

Duckworth’s research lab at the University of Pennsylvania, spoke to attendees about the power of grit — passion and perseverance — and how it is both needed for, and learned from, the scientific research projects that students complete. Veteran research teachers presented on topics, such as Sustaining Re- search Programs on Limited Resources, Ethics in Student Science Research as well as Finding Mentors and Partnering with Universities. Of those surveyed, 95 percent of attendees indicated that they would recommend this conference to their colleagues.

Rebecca Grella, Barbi Frank and Jennifer Gordinier share insights.

“I cannot even begin to express my full appreciation for what you do. Without Society for Science, we simply couldn’t have the positions that we have as dedicated research teachers.”

Shaniece Mosley enjoys the conference.

STEVE GORDON, GARDEN CITY, NEW JERSEY

2016 ANNUAL REPORT | SOCIETY FOR SCIENCE & THE PUBLIC | 43