Welcome to the Central Rivers AEA Science website. Here you will find information, resources, and tools to improve science education for all students.
Check out our latest newsletters: November 2021 and Archived Newsletters
Next Generation science standards
- Iowa adopted the performance expectations component of the Next Generation Science Standards as the state standard on August 6, 2015.
- Explore the full Next Generation Science Standards.
- The standards are based on the Framework for K-12 Science Education.
- Feel free to contact us to discuss ways we can assist your district with your transition to these standards.
Resources to Support Implementation of Iowa Core Science Standards
The Central Rivers AEA Science team has developed and collected a number of resources to guide an individual teacher or district’s implementation of the Iowa Science Standards. From evidence booklets to resources to that support lesson planning, you’ll find them here!
Ways to Connect with Educators Across the state
Iowa’s AEA science consultants are utilizing social media as a way to increase collaboration among teachers. Consider joining one or more of the Iowa Facebook pages to share news, ideas, resources, and questions join us for Twitter chat (#IAscienceChat), or utilize the resources and meetings of MINK & Co.
Coaching Science in Iowa
Are you an instructional coach who supports Science teachers? The Iowa Science Coaching Network is a great place to network with others. Facilitated by two instructional coaches from Southeast Polk, they host webinars throughout the year, have a Google+ Community, and have a newsletter. Check out their site for more information.
STEM education in Iowa
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Education has been identified as a priority in Iowa. The Governor’s STEM Advisory Council is a partnership between business, policy, and education leaders from across the state convened to bolster Iowa’s STEM education and innovation. Visit the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council for more information.
Check out our blog science for the next generation!
Periodically throughout the school year, we will discuss issues related to Science Education. Check out the Science Blog and add to the conversation!
Some ways we can support:
- Professional learning in the area of science education in districts
- Provide professional development through course offerings (see chart below)
- Consultation on Iowa Science Standards
- Support with Mystery Science (K-5)
- Support with OpenSciEd (6th-8th)
- Support working with teachers to better align curriculum to Iowa Science standards
- Join school science team PLCs
- Provide student events at the agency (see chart below)
- Assist in finding resources to support science education
- Answer questions related to the teaching of science
- Support with STEM implementation
- Guide curriculum committees through science curriculum selection
- Work with schools to set up “learning teams” for renewal credit.
- Conduct science learning labs
- Other support ideas are welcome
Current Offerings to look for:
| Date | Course/Event | Audience | Location | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 1- September 24, 2021 | Beyond Mystery Science
Course # 190668 |
K-5 educators, Instructional coaches | Canvas | 1 license renewal |
| August 1-Sept 30th, 2021 | Serving TAG Students in the General Ed Classroom | K-12 educators, Instructional Coaches | Canvas | 1 license renewal |
| November 8th, 2020 | Paper Roller Coaster Design Challenge (HS) | Students in grades 9-12 | Clear Lake | |
| November 15th, 2021 | Paper Roller Coaster Design Challenge (MS) | Students in grades 6th-8th | Clear Lake | |
| December 2, 2021 | Guiding Inquiry through the QFT | PK-12 educators, instructional coaches | Cedar Falls | |
| January 31, 2022 and March 28th, 2022 | Elementary Science Discourse | PK-5 educators, instructional coaches | Cedar Falls | 1 license renewal |
| February 6 – May 6, 2022 | Beyond Mystery Science
Course # 190668 |
K-5 educators, Instructional coaches | Canvas | 1 license renewal |
| February 18, 2022 | Paper Table Challenge-MS/HS | Students in grades 6th-12th | Remote | |
| March 11, 2022 | Paper Table Challenge-3rd-5th | Students in grades 3rd-5th | Remote | |
| May 13, 2022 | Discover and Wonder: Hands-on STEM | Students in grades K-2 | Clear Lake |
Contact us
Have a Question? Want to Know More? Contact a Science Consultant!
Cedar Falls Office
| Name | Title | |
|---|---|---|
| Mandie Sanderman | Consultant for Science | Mandie Sanderman |
| Chelsie Byram | Consultant for Science | Chelsie Byram |