Professional Learning Opportunities

Bridge the gap between elementary and secondary Technology & Engineering (T&E) education with a K-12 collaborative workshop focused on effective STEM implementation. Educators will explore high-impact instructional strategies, hands-on design challenges, and student engagement techniques that align with STEELS standards. Discussions will center on vertical alignment, real-world problem-solving, and best practices for fostering inquiry-driven learning at all grade levels. Walk away with practical resources, lesson adaptations, and strategies to strengthen STEM and T&E instruction across K-12 classrooms.

STEELS Institute 3.0 is designed to strengthen, empower, and energize district teams, providing educators with actionable instructional strategies, targeted tools for enhancing student engagement, and practical approaches to authentically connect classroom learning to real-world contexts. STEELS Institute 3.0 Strategic Focus: Classroom Site Visits: Experience STEELS-aligned instruction firsthand in K-12 classrooms to inform your own implementation. Data-Driven Implementation: Use clear, evidence-based methods to analyze student work and assessment data, guiding instructional decisions, and ensuring lasting improvements in student achievement. Micro-PD Modules: Collaboratively create short, targeted professional learning resources that support teachers across our districts. Integrating Science, Literacy, Social Studies, & Mathematics: Develop instructional strategies to intentionally connect science, literacy, and mathematics to promote deeper student understanding and authentic learning experiences. Cost: District Teams of up to 8 participants-recommended:at least 1 administrator plus elementary, middle, and high school teachers. IU13 School Districts (Lancaster & Lebanon Counties) - $2,250.00 Non-IU13 districts (outside Lancaster & Lebanon Counties) - $3,250 **Districts will be invoiced at the conclusion of the four days for the District team amount not per attendee.** Additional Information: Lunch is provided Please bring a charged device (laptop/tablet etc.) Participant emails will be shared with Platinum and Gold level sponsors of the STEELS Institute 3.0

This hands-on training will equip educators with the tools and knowledge to implement Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEEs) in their classrooms. Participants will engage in outdoor field experiences, water quality testing, and discussions on local watershed issues, connecting environmental science to real-world learning. The workshop will provide practical strategies for integrating MWEEs into instruction, aligning with PA STEELS standards and fostering student inquiry. Educators will leave with resources, funding ideas, and action project guidance to enhance environmental literacy and student engagement. *Cost covered by funds from STEMinPA

This hands-on training will equip educators with the tools and knowledge to implement Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEEs) in their classrooms. Participants will engage in outdoor field experiences, water quality testing, and discussions on local watershed issues, connecting environmental science to real-world learning. The workshop will provide practical strategies for integrating MWEEs into instruction, aligning with PA STEELS standards and fostering student inquiry. Educators will leave with resources, funding ideas, and action project guidance to enhance environmental literacy and student engagement.

Step into Lancaster's premier outdoor classroom! During this two-day workshop, middle and high school educators will immerse themselves in the innovative stream restoration and scientific research taking place on the Blue Green Connector-a transformational project along the Little Conestoga Creek in the heart of Lancaster. This site is the first of many that will serve as an outdoor classroom and field location with close proximity to many schools. Educators will: * Engage in a hands-on "muddy boots” field experience, exploring the restoration project and the unique opportunities it offers for student learning. * Collaboratively design instructional materials aligned with the new PA STEELS standards, tailored to the learning opportunities found throughout the site. * Develop content that will not only be ready-to-use with their own students, but also featured on the the Blue Green Connector website, expanding access for teachers across the region. Please Note:This site will serve as a premier outdoor field location for STEM, STEAM, and cross-disciplinary learning-linking science, engineering, environmental stewardship, and history in one authentic setting. Who Should Apply: We're seeking 10 middle or high school educators with backgrounds in biology, earth science, environmental science, engineering, history, or STEM/STEAM. Participant Benefits: * $450 stipend per teacher (paid to school to support substitute costs) * Lunch provided both days * 12 Act 48 hours awarded upon completion