Sign Up for the Developer's Den 2023 Summer Coding Camp! This camp will be hosted at a computer lab in the DeVos Center for Interprofessional Health at Grand Valley State University.

All technology required for the camp will be provided.  No coding experience is necessary!  The recommended age group for this camp is 7th grade and above. Sign up today!

MiSTEM Network's Greater West Michigan Region in collaboration with The Grand Valley State University Regional Math and Science Center (RMSC), participated in STEAM Along the Lakeshore on Saturday, May 6th, for the 2nd year.

Our staff had an amazing time in Muskegon for this event, engaging with over 600 students and families! This event provides hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) for students in the greater Muskegon community. Muskegon Community College, Lakeshore Fab Lab, Muskegon Museum of Art, Hackley Public Library, and Lakeshore Museum Center worked together to host this event and many other groups who came to support the next generation in their STEAM interests and future careers. 

AG-xploration Family Engagement 
The annual Career AG-xploration event in Muskegon aims to inspire the next generation to see themselves in an area agribusiness operation providing interactive experiences for K-12 students to participate in that showcase a diverse range of industry careers. Career Development begins long before high school and events like this help students see what opportunities are available, explore areas they are interested in, and prepare for their future. Careers in farming and food production are in demand, and many do not require a four year degree. Interaction with area employers builds awareness of jobs connected to food production, and helps participants have a better understanding of where their food comes from and what it takes to grow, process, and transport it.   

The Culturally Responsive-Sustaining STEAM Curriculum Scorecards were designed by the NYU Metro Center to help parents, teachers, students, and community members determine the extent to which their schools’ English Language Art, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM)  curricula are (or are not) culturally responsive. 

This tool will provoke thinking about how students should learn, what they should learn, and how curriculum can be transformed to engage students effectively. In creating this tool, the NYU Metro Center drew upon a wide variety of existing resources, including multicultural rubrics, anti-bias rubrics, textbook rubrics, and rubrics aimed at creating cultural standards for educators, determining bias in children books and examining lesson plans. They supplemented those with additional questions to provide a more comprehensive tool. 

Use the following links to access the Scorecard: 

• PDF of Scorecard  
• STEAM Scorecard for the Web 
• Submit Scorecard Results  

CybHER®’s mission is to empower, motivate, educate, and change the perception of girls and women in cybersecurity. By providing resources for girls from middle school through collegiate programs and into professional careers, CybHER will allow women to foster positive and encouraging relationships within this industry through original and curated content that educates and motivates women. Ultimately, their goal is to increase diversity by introducing more girls to cybersecurity, who will then transition to women in collegiate programs, and finally highly trained professionals. While CybHER’s mission is to promote STEM and technology for females, CybHER is open to everyone. 

Check out these lessons, clubs, resources, and career events: 

Lesson Plans 
Online Safety: Personal Data Vulnerabilities 
This modules introduces AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) students to the concept that information and data may be susceptible to attack by an adversary. After an introductory exercise to discuss the meaning of the word vulnerability, students use the web application Spokeo to complete an activity to discover what data may be vulnerable. A discussion of Social Engineering leads students to complete the Certificate of Completion (CCL) with an activity exposing the metadata related to images on a smartphone. 

Digital Forensics: Securing Data 
This module stands to educate students on the differences between data at rest and data in motion, and how to protect each one. 

Resources 
This page contains a list of links for parents, teachers, and students to learn coding, cybersecurity concepts, and more! 

Check out the CybHER YouTube channel which contains the following playlists: 

• CybHER Activities 
• CybHER Podcasts 
• #CybHERTerms (learn what cybersecurity terms mean) 
• #BeCybHERAware (learn how to stay safe and secure online)  

Join the K-8 Teachers Science/STEM Camp hosted by the School of Education at Aquinas College in the new Albertus Magnus Hall of Science for “hands-on” and “minds-on” Science/STEM learning experiences! Explore strategies aligned with the Michigan Science Standards that will fit right into your K-8 classroom! 

Camp Highlights: 

• Explore hands-on learning activities by designing, building and testing structures (toothpick bridges, roller coasters, etc.) 
• Investigate Physical and Life Science strategies to integrate into your daily lessons 
• Research-based & classroom-tested practices 
• STEM Team-Building Activities 
• STEM Network, Resources, & Lesson ideas 

The Camp is being facilitated by Mike Fillman who is an Aquinas College Education/Science Education Adjunct Professor, Aquinas College Student Summer Science/STEM Camp Director, and Retired Elementary & Middle School Science/STEM Teacher.   For questions, contact Mike at mwf001@aquinas.edu or (616) 632-2800.

Date and Time: June 19-23, 2023 from 9 a.m.-Noon 
Cost: $20, SCECH’s available 
Registration deadline: June 14, 2023 
Click here to register or scan the QR code below:

Are you a teacher who is new to place-based education (PBE)?  Have you implemented PBE in your classroom and want to learn more?

The institute this year will lead you through the six elements of a PBE project so you can implement an awesome experience back at your school. Groundswell is offering this free workshop to educators which includes expert facilitation, classroom material giveaways, and provided meals each day for participants (a value of $400 per attendee). 

Why should you join us for this workshop?

• Expert facilitators! Mary Whitmore, the founder of the Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative (GLSI) and co-author of the GLSI PBE Principles will co-lead the institute with Erica Johnson, Project Specialist from the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District.
• A detailed walk-through of how to implement a PBE experience in your classroom.
• Attendance provides you with information and eligibility for Groundswell project funds in the 2023-2024 academic year (up to $1,500 for your school). 
• For the first 30 educators to register, a sponsored registration to the fall 2023 GLSI PBE conference in downtown Grand Rapids, a $370 value. 
• Make connections with fantastic West Michigan experts who can offer classroom support and guidance with your school project.

Click here to register.

Participants are expected to commit to the three days of the institute. If you have a scheduling conflict that may inhibit your attendance on one of these days, please reach out to Clay Pelon at pelonc@gvsu.edu.

Click here for more information about each of the three days of the Institute.

Article written by Van Andel Institute for Education  

Van Andel Institute for Education (VAI) is inviting all K-12 teachers and administrators to join them in Grand Rapids, MI, July 10th–11th, for the return of Science on the Grand: A STEAM Conference for Inquiry-Based Instruction. Celebrating its third year, Science on the Grand aims to connect K–12 educators with like-minded peers and equip them with the knowledge, skills, resources, and networking opportunities they need to build classrooms dedicated to STEAM integration. 

“Everything about this event is designed to give teachers the respect and support they deserve," says Terra Tarango, VAI Director and Education Officer. "Nothing rekindles a teacher’s passion for teaching more than experiencing memorable, validating learning experiences themselves!"  

Each morning, Science on the Grand kicks off the conference with a keynote presentation from one of VAI’s two exciting speakers. On day one, Dr. John Spencer, thought leader in design-thinking and best-selling author of Empower, will address what it means to spark ongoing curiosity through inquiry-based learning. On day two, Dr. Stephanie Grainger, Assistant Professor of the Department of Cell Biology at Van Andel Institute will bring a scientific perspective on how educators can influence and inspire the next generation of scientists. Attendees are then free to explore a variety of educational sessions based on their learning needs and personal interests.  

Registration for Science on the Grand includes:     

• Two days of inspiration, exploration, and practical takeaways, courtesy of educational presenters who will share research-based and classroom-tested STEAM content strategies for fostering student growth.     
• Opportunities to network with like-minded teachers and build supportive connections for the upcoming school year. The support, idea-sharing, and camaraderie you’ll find is sure to re-energize you and infuse new inspiration into your work.    
• Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and a cocktail reception with Van Andel Institute's exclusive catering company will be provided. Plus, you'll enjoy special VIP surprises along the way! (We even cover parking!)   
• With the paid registration of a staff member, an administrator from the same building/district may attend for FREE.

At Van Andel Institute for Education, our mission is to create classrooms where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive. We NEVER want cost to be a prohibiting factor in quality education for students or teachers. If price ever becomes an issue, we ask that educators please let us know. We may be able to help!  

To register or for more information on Science on the Grand, please visit vaei.org.  

The Academy of Natural Resources offers educators the opportunity to learn about Michigan's diverse natural resources, discover current trends in their management, and experience activities that bring knowledge to the classroom. They offer week-long programs at two locations that qualify for SCECHs or credit through Ferris State University.  The Michigan DNR and the MiSTEM Network are partnering to offer special scholarships to attend the Michigan Environmental Education Curriculum Support (MEECS) Week at the Academy of Natural Resources (ANR) Classic from July 9 -14 at the DNR RAM Center on the North Shore of Higgins Lake.

We are specifically looking for educators who are interested in the new revised materials produced by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The Michigan Environmental Education Curriculum Support program has undergone major revisions in the Water Quality, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, and Climate Change units. The Academy will be one of the first locations to field test these materials with Michigan Educators. To ensure we have enough participants, the DNR is offering $200 scholarships off the total price of the week bringing the cost down to $195 which includes 5 nights lodging, 15 meals, instruction, and materials.

Eileen Boekestein, EGLE’s EE Coordinator says, ”Several of our most popular MEECS units have undergone major revisions to promote three-dimensional learning that aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards. We’re thrilled to debut brand new Water Quality, Ecosystems & Biodiversity, and Climate Change units at this year’s ANR, and we’re excited for MEECS Week participants to be among the first in the state to access to these excellent resources.” 

You can find more information at www.michigan.gov/anr.  To receive the scholarship, complete and email this Scholarship Application Form to Ginger Rohwer at rohwergi@gvsu.edu.  Questions may be directed to 517-974-7941.

Hey gamers! Ready to put your Minecraft skills to the test?   
The Federal Aviation Administration is inviting students from Kindergarten through 12th grade to replicate an actual airport in the video game Minecraft, with help from aviation and STEM experts! 

To help inspire students to better understand airports and their importance to American transportation, the FAA is hosting another run of the acclaimed Airport Design Challenge competition, which utilizes Minecraft to help develop a model airport with all of the required airside elements. Individually or in small teams, participants will receive instruction from FAA experts who specialize in specific areas of the airport. With that information, students will research a local airport of their choosing and then recreate that airport in the virtual world of Minecraft! 

What you can expect... 

• Small teams of students work together to learn about their local airport and to complete development tasks in Minecraft 
• Organized lesson plans covering topics from airport layout, pavement, lighting, structures, and innovative growth 
• Knowledge check assignments, which will be turned in accompanied by screen shots of student progress 
• Collaborative work between students, parents, and teachers performed in a virtual environment 
• STEM based applied knowledge in math, engineering, and career development 

For more information on how to enroll, visit faa.gov/go/adc. 
For questions, email avsed.challenge@faa.gov. 

A Logistics Engineer designs or analyzes operational solutions for projects such as transportation optimization, network modeling, process and methods analysis, cost containment, capacity enhancement, routing and shipment optimization, or information management. 

On the job, they would: 

• Propose logistics solutions for customers. 
• Develop logistic metrics, internal analysis tools, or key performance indicators for business units. 
• Conduct logistics studies or analyses, such as time studies, zero-base analyses, rate analyses, network analyses, flow-path analyses, or supply chain analyses. 

To be a Logistics Engineer there are certain skills you should possess, including: 

• Communication skills: The ability to communicate verbally and nonverbally with other engineers, managers, clients, and suppliers. 
• Technical skills: Having the knowledge of software, hardware, and machinery necessary to fulfill your responsibilities as a logistics engineer. 
• Analytical skills: The ability to solve problems and make decisions. In logistics engineering, this refers to analyzing and evaluating how a system should work and identifying actions needed to improve performance. 
• Problem-solving skills: Finding solutions to complex problems that may arise. 
• Organizational skills: Keeping track of projects and tasks, as well as tools and resources, in an structured and efficient way. 

Becoming a logistics engineer can often require a bachelor’s degree, with many students studying operations management and supervision to put them on the path to such a career. Within this program, you learn about managing and directing an organization’s functions, productivity analysis, cost control, production control, equipment maintenance, and much more.  

Biomedical Engineers apply knowledge of engineering, biology, chemistry, computer science, and biomechanical principles to the design, development, and evaluation of biological, agricultural, and health systems and products, such as artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical information systems, and health management and care delivery systems. 

On the job they would: 

• Conduct research, along with life scientists, chemists, and medical scientists, on the engineering aspects of the biological systems of humans and animals. 
• Adapt or design computer hardware or software for medical science uses. 
• Evaluate the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment. 

The most common degree held by biomedical engineers is Biomedical Engineering, held by 17% of biomedical engineers. Other common degrees include Mechanical Engineering, Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. 

Water Resource Specialists often know a lot about: 

• Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services. 
• Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. 
• Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. 
• Physics - Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes. 
• Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming. 

How much education do most people need in this career? 

• 21% have a Doctoral or professional degree  
• 35 % have a Master's degree 
• 34% have a Bachelor's degree  

Can't take a field trip to a farm? Take a virtual tour!  

Check out The National Agriculture in the Classroom virtual tours and virtually visit egg and poultry farms, pig farms, crop farms, and more!  

Need more options? Explore The Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation's virtual farm field trip videos.  Watch and learn how to shear sheep for their wool, what it takes to grow mushrooms, and discover how raw lumber is turned into boards for carpentry and firewood!  

Don't forget to check out their Careers in Agriculture videos and hear from farm managers, research scientists, plant breeders, and how robotics are incorporated into today's farming! 

Ginger Rohwer
Regional Director
(616) 331-2272
rohwergi@gvsu.edu

Diane Miller
Business, Community, and Education Liaison
(616) 331-2265
milledia@gvsu.edu

www.gvsu.edu/mistem

Services provided through a MiSTEM grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Education.

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