LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
LSTA
NEWSLETTER
LASER
In This Issue
President’s Message
3
Call for Nominations (Board Positions)
4
LSTA Conference Update and Awards
4-6
LSTA Regional Workshops on NGSS Framework
7
Science Standards in Louisiana - Discussion and
Resources
9
Regional News
10-14
Professional Development Opportunities and
Resources
15-20
Student Opportunities and Events
22-23
LSTA Membership Form
24
August 2013 | Louisiana Science Teachers Association
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Cover page
LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
LSTA Board and Regional Representatives
Tera LaPrarie
President
tera.laprarie@rpsb.us
Nathan Cotten
Vice President
nathancotten@tpsd.org
Shannon Lafont
Past President
shannonlafont75@gmail.com
Shavonne Garner-Price
Secretary
sprice9455@aol.com
Jean May-Brett
Treasurer/BaP-SM SC
jean.may-brett@la.gov
Charlotte Bihm
NSTA Liason
cbihm@acdsonline.org
Membership
Ann Wilson
La Science Program Coordinator
ann.wilson@la.gov
Jan Graff
Awards Coordinator
jlgraff@bellsouth.net
Alice Chiveleatto
Region 1 Representative
achivleatto@cox.net
Paulette Perrin
Region 2 Representative
paulette.perrin@stpsb.org
Michelle Morvant
Region 3 Representative
mmorvant.tes@lafourche.k12.la.us
April Stone
Region 4 Representative
als0520@slp.k12.la.us
Judy Reeves
Region 5 Representative
Jrkat60@gmail.com
Angela Capello
Region 6 Representative
acapello@wlf.louisiana.gov
JoNell Pfingsten
Region 7 Representative
jbpfingsten@caddo.k12.la.us
Lyndsey Ewing
Region 8 Representative
lyndsey.ewing@mcschools.net
Nathan Cotten
LASER Editor
nathancotten@tpsd.org
Dwayne Foret
LSTA Web Master
Dru Foret
Administrative Assistant
dforet@tpsd.org
Rene Naquin
Historian
renenaquin@tpsd.org
L O U I S I A N A
S C I E N C E
T E A C H E R S
A S S O C I A T I O N
Louisiana science educators dedicated to the advancement of scientific literacy at all levels,
and encouraging lifelong learning.
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Cover page
LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
President’s Message from Tera LaPrarie
I hope everyone has enjoyed their summer break!
As you continue planning the school year, mark your calendars for the LSTA
Science Institute “The Next Frontier: Next Generation Science Standards”
on October 31-Nov 2, in Baton Rouge.
For those of you interested in attending the LSTA Institute the preconference publication, The Focus, has all the necessary information you
need to prepare for your attendance. This year’s Institute will focus on
preparing teachers for the Frameworks of the Next Generation Science
Standards by providing educators with the knowledge, skills, and tools to
effectively incorporate science into their classrooms. LSTA awards 10 travel
grants in the amount of $300.00 to those needing assistance to attend the
Science Institute. The travel grant can help offset the cost of conference
registration, hotel, and/or travel. Deadline to apply for a travel grant is
September 9, 2013. Also, check out the LSTA Outstanding Science Teacher
Awards. For more information, visit the LSTA website.
Do you have a unique, engaging lesson or lab you would like to share with others? If so, we need you! It’s not
too late to submit a session proposal. All proposals will be submitted electronically from the website. Once you
submit your proposal, you will receive an email conformation stating your proposal has been received. If you do
not receive the confirmation, please contact Brenda Nixon at bnixon@lsu.edu. Don’t delay, be a part of the
LSTA Institute!
We have made some changes this year to our Institute. Normally, an awards luncheon or dinner ticket has to
be purchased in addition to other registration costs. This year when you register before September 20, 2013
your luncheon ticket will be included!! Pre-conference registration is $60.00, this includes a one year
membership, fees for conference and a luncheon ticket. Don’t miss out, register today!
For those LSTA members who are not planning on attending the Institute don't forget about renewing your
membership. Unless you had a multi-year membership, renew now to ensure you are not missing any of the
upcoming information released through LSTA.
LSTA is coming to a city near you! In efforts to share the future of science education with others, LSTA is
providing workshops around the state to prepare teachers with information about the K-12 Frameworks for
Science Education. A representative from each region will be presenting a four hour long workshop to prepare
educators with the knowledge about the Frameworks. Continue to check the website for locations and dates
near you.
Nathan Cotten and Shavonne Garner-Price attended the National Congress on Science Education in Puerto
Rico as the LSTA Representatives. Both of them participated in many different discussions, break-out sessions,
and professional development workshops focused on the future of science education.
Have a wonderful start to the 2013-2014 school year!
Tera LaPrarie
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
2013 LSTA CONFERENCE
OCTOBER 31 – NOVEMBER 2, 2013
The New Frontier:
Next Generation Science
Standards
LSTA travel grant information is available on
page 6 of the LASER and on the LSTA website.
Hotel Information
Crowne Plaza Hotel
4728 Constitution Avenue
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808
All reservations need to be made by October 16 for the reduced rate!
REGISTER ON-LINE: www.crowneplaza.com/execcenterbtr
Click the picture for the location!



Find group code link on left website band.
Click “Have a Group Code?”
Enter LST
Register by phone: 1-800-678-4065 Remember to provide the LST Code for your $92 rate!
Registration
Complete your registration online by clicking here!
 Pre-registration rate ($60.00): before September 20th
 Early Bird rate ($75.00): postmarked before October 4th
 Regular Registration ($90.00): postmarked October 5th and later
Session Proposals
There is still time to submit a session proposal! Click here!
Thanks to Donna Knapp and Pearson for their continued support
of LSTA!
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
Bill Badders
The LSTA Board is pleased to welcome Bill Badders, 2013 National Science Teachers Association
(NSTA) President, to our annual science institute October 31-November 2 in Baton Rouge.
For more than four decades, Bill has been a devoted teacher and dedicated leader in science
education. In 1971, he began his teaching career as an elementary science teacher in Cleveland.
Badders is retired from the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) in Cleveland, Ohio,
where he last served as the director and principal investigator for the Cleveland Math and Science
Partnership program. Throughout his career, Bill has been honored for his contributions to science
education. He received a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
(1992) and is a Fulbright Memorial Teacher Fund recipient (2000).
Bill Badders
A passionate member of NSTA, he served as a division director on NSTA's board of directors. Bill
has worked on several committees, panels and tasks forces and regularly presents sessions at
NSTA national and area conferences.
Michael DiSpezio
Michael DiSpezio is one of the most recognized, entertaining and sought-after presenters at
educator conferences throughout the world. In addition to offering his unique style of dynamic,
theatrical, and often interactive presentations, he is a prolific author with over thirty published trade
books and an equal number of science textbook co-authorships.
As all agree, his enthusiastic, high-energy style is an infectious vehicle for his delivery of a wide
range of topics. Michael's research science background, days on the stage and over a decade in
his most noble career as a classroom teacher have produced a speaker's speaker. Exploiting his
background as a science writer and educational consultant for organizations that range from the
Discovery Channel to the World Bank, Michael DiSpezio carries his messages with validity and
resolution. He is a true friend to LSTA and has given many hours to students in classrooms in
Louisiana.
Michael DiSpezio
Debbie Silver
With 30 years spent as a teacher, staff development instructor, and university professor, Debbie
Silver doesn't just know her way around the classroom – she is familiar with the challenges
educators face at every level, from kindergarten to college. The former Louisiana Teacher of the
Year has given presentations around the world (including 49 states, Canada, Mexico, Europe,
the Middle East, and Asia), helping audiences to interact with students on a deeper level.
Her newest book, Fall Down 7 Times, Get Up 8: Teaching Kids to Succeed, is being heralded by
parents, teachers, and administrators as a “fresh approach to getting kids to work smarter and
better.” In it she explains motivational theory and provides down-to-earth examples of concrete,
applicable guidelines for helping students overcome setbacks and failure to foster lifelong
success. Her mission is to remind teachers of how important they are in the lives of children,
highlighting both learning theory as well as tools for communication.
Debbie Silver
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
LSTA Awards
Application Deadline is September 9, 2013!
The LSTA Science Education Awards are presented by the Louisiana Science Teachers Association, an affiliate of the
National Science Teachers Association. These awards are bestowed in the categories listed below at the luncheon of the
LSTA annual convention.
Click on the title below to apply for one of these awards!

Outstanding Science Teacher of the Year
Awards are presented by the Louisiana Science Teachers Association to one science teacher at each level
(elementary, middle and secondary) who has demonstrated exemplary science teaching. This may include
performance in the development/use of instructional materials, design/implementation of curriculum, and/or
fostering school-based instructional programs in science for longer than five years. Criteria for eligibility for the
competition and procedures are described below.

The Essie Beck "Rising Star" Science Education Award
Presented by the Louisiana Science Teachers Association to one science teacher at any level (K-12) who has
demonstrated exemplary science teaching. This may include performance in the development/use of instructional
materials, design/implementation of curriculum, and/or fostering school-based or community-based instructional
programs in science for a period of three to five years. This award is named for Essie Beck who devoted both her
teaching career and retirement years to the improvement of science education in Louisiana.

Claudia Fowler Distinguished Service to Science Education Award
Designed to recognize an LSTA member who has made extraordinary contributions to the advancement of science
education in the sciences and science teaching. The recipient may be a present or former school administrator,
state department of education employee, elected official, LSTA officer or other (at the discretion of the Awards
Committee). The nominee must have been a member of LSTA for a minimum of 3 years.

The Distinguished Informal Science Education Award
Designed to recognize one LSTA member who is not a classroom teacher and who has made extraordinary
contributions to the advancement of science education in other than a traditional school setting. Examples include
(but is not limited to) individuals who work for a science-technology center, museum, nature center or community
service center. Representatives from business or industry also are potential nominees. The nominee must have
been a member of LSTA for a minimum of 3 years.

William W. Craig University Educator Award
Honors the memory of the late Dr. William W. Craig, Professor of Geology at the University of New Orleans. Dr.
Craig's influence upon K-12 educators was profound, even though his area of work was that of a research scientist.
This award seeks to recognize University faculty members who like Dr. Craig, have reached out to K-12 educators
and made a difference in their careers.

LSTA Travel Grants
Grants for $300 each to offset the expense of attending LSTA conference in Baton Rouge. The money can be used
to cover conference registration, short course registration, lodging, meals, parking, or travel.
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
LSTA to Host Regional Workshops on Framework for K-12 Science Education
Explore the three Dimensions of the Framework for K-12 Science Education, the vision for the Next Generation Science
Standards (NGSS) at an LSTA workshop for your Region. Each workshop is designed for members of LSTA (grades K-12).
Workshops are limited to 30 participants so register with the presenter from your region soon! Door prizes and refreshments
will be provided. To register, contact the presenters below. (If you are not a member of LSTA and would like to attend, join
now or become at a member at the workshop.)
Region
2
3
4
5
8
When
August 24
8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
August 17
8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
August 31
9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Completed
August 1
8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Where
Covington Educational Center
71460 Edna Street
Covington, LA 71460
To register, contact Dr. Paulette Perrin at
paulette.perrin@stpsb.org
Southdown Elementary Training Room
1124 St. Charles Street. Houma, LA 70360
To register, contact Nathan Cotten at
nathancotten@tpsd.org
South Street Elementary
409 E. South St. Opelousas, LA 70571
To register, contact April Stone at
als0520@slp.k12.la.us
McNeese St. University Nature Lab
Drew Hall 114
To register, contact Judy Reeves at
jrkat60@gmail.com.
Presenters
Paulette Perrin,
Kim Wood
Nathan Cotten,
Jean May-Brett,
Shavonne GarnerPrice
April Stone
LaShondra Taylor
Judy Reeves
Tina Savoie
Shavonne GarnerPrice
October 5
*Sites and times for regions not listed are to be determined.
NGSS in Louisiana Update
There will not be any changes in the Louisiana science
standards for the 2013-14 school year. State assessments will
be aligned to the current GLEs. The Department of Education
is hoping to spend the next three months engaging in a series
of conversations with science educators and partners across
the state to get feedback and guidance on how to proceed.
They will be reaching out to science educators and stakeholders to join those conversations.
In the meantime, advocators of NGSS are strongly encouraging that teachers are familiar with
the Framework for K-12 Science Education. Continue to check future LASERs for all NGSS
updates and how the Louisiana Department of Education is responding!
http://www.nextgenscience.org/next-generation-science-standards
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
Science and Social Studies Educator Engagement Meetings
Calling all curriculum coordinators, principals, and science/social studies teachers. In planning for 2014-2015 and
beyond, the Louisiana Department of Education would like to solicit input from educators across the state on the direction
forward with science and social studies standards, assessments and resources. The specific dates and sites for
engagement are listed below. No RSVP is required. Please e-mail susannah.craig@la.gov with any questions.

Monday, August 19, 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Claiborne Building, Thomas Jefferson Room
1201 North 3rd Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802

Tuesday, August 20, 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Monroe, Louisiana
Ouachita High School, Mane Center (behind Ouachita High)
681 Highway 594
Monroe, LA 71203

Thursday, August 22, 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Bossier, Louisiana
Bossier Instructional Center (next to Airline High School)
2719 Airline Drive
Bossier City, LA 71111

Monday, August 26, 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Chalmette, Louisiana
St. Bernard Professional Development Center (2nd floor of Chalmette Elementary)
Chalmette Elementary School
75 E. Chalmette Circle
Chalmette, LA 70043

Thursday, August 29, 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Crowley, Louisiana
Acadia Parish Educational Center (APEC)
2122 North Parkerson Avenue
Crowley, Louisiana 70526
Science and Social Studies - Plans for 2013-2014 and Beyond
The Louisiana Department of Education has produced a set of documents to support science and social studies teachers
as they plan for instruction in the coming school year.
•
•
•
Click here for 2013-2014 science standards or grade level expectations (GLEs) by grade.
Click here for 2013-2014 social studies standards or GLEs by grade.
Updated assessment guidance documents (e.g., test structure, example questions, etc.) are now available for the
2013-2014 science and social studies assessments.
In planning for 2014-2015 and beyond, we will work with educators from across the state to (1) identify areas of strength
and weakness in our current science and social studies standards, (2) determine if (and how) we can improve our summative
assessments and (3) prepare additional support resources to assist science and social studies teachers. Specific dates for
engagement will be released before the start of school.
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
Louisiana Teachers Receive Grant from NOAA’s Gulf of Mexico Bay-Watershed
Education and Training Program
NOAA's Gulf of Mexico Bay-Watershed Education and Training (Gulf B-WET) Program selected two of
the five new grants from Louisiana. The Gulf B-WET recipient organizations, project titles, and project
leads are listed below.


Advocates for Academic Excellence in Education (Ben Franklin High School); Title: Rx for the
Coast; Leads: Francious McHugh, Dr. Mary Gubala, and Diane Maygarden
University of Louisiana at Lafayette; Title: A Watershed Education - Water Quality Monitoring and
GIS Analysis on Bayou Vermilion; Leads: Dr. Whitney Broussard and Dr. Emad Habib
Click here to find a list of all Gulf B-WET projects funded (including recipient organizations, project titles, and project
summaries), since the program's inception.
2013 Broadcom Masters Semifinalists from Louisiana
Congratulations to Joshua Micheal Courtney and Joshua Austin Hartley for becoming a 2013 semifinalist for the
Broadcom Masters Competition. They are 2 of the 300 selected national semifinalists.
Both students were nominated by their respective SSP-affiliated science fairs to compete in the Broadcom MASTERS
Competition. Nominees entered the competition by completing an application explaining their science project and
demonstrating their use of STEM principles - science, technology, engineering and math - in the development and
presentation of their project.
USLA01 Region VII
Carmel Hill School, Baton Rouge, Louisiana Joshua Michael Courtney (Grade 7) Baton Rouge,
Louisiana Do Rainbow Trout and Their Hybrids Outcompete Cutthroat Trout in a Lentic
Ecosystem?
USLA08 Region VIII
John Curtis Christian School, River Ridge, Louisiana Joshua Austin Hartley (Grade 8) Harahan,
Louisiana Underwater Nondestructive Testing Can Be Effectively Monitored Utilizing Live Feed
Video Installed on a Small Scale Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
Finalists will be announced August 27th.
Louisiana Teacher Selected for National Science Foundation Fellowship
Woodlawn High School science teacher Steve Griffin has been selected to the Albert Einstein
Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program. Griffin will spend one year in Washington, D.C. as a part
of the program that provides a unique professional development opportunity for accomplished K-12
educators in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to serve in the
national education arena.
Fellows spend eleven months working in a Federal agency or in a U.S. Congressional office, bringing
their extensive knowledge and experience in the classroom to education program and/or education
policy efforts.
See
a
recent
article
in
the
Advocate
about
Steve’s
http://theadvocate.com/features/people/6578258-123/science-is-hard.
Applications for the 2014-2015 Fellowship will open in the Fall of 2013.
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journey
to
becoming
selected:
LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
Regional News
 Region I 
This summer teachers attended AoA
and NOAA workshops. 25 teachers
were treated to a workshop by the
Navy on Sea Perch robotics and NOAA
on How We Explore. Trish LeBlanc
hosted the event which included Paula
Keener the Director of NOAA’s Ocean
Exploration Education Program.
Share your news with Alice Chiveleatto at achivleatto@cox.net.
 Region II 
Two St. Tammany Parish Public Schools science teachers have been named as Louisiana state finalists in the Presidential
Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. They are Leslie Callaway from Pitcher Junior High School
and Tracey Hoffman from Fontainebleau High School. Congratulations, ladies!
High school math and science teacher-pairs gathered at LSU’s
College of Engineering for the fifth annual High School Teacher
Engineering Awareness Program (HSTEAP), a summer experience
focused on helping teachers develop a curriculum that exposes
students to engineering and generates interest in STEM disciplines.
Among the 22 teachers participating in the program were Tracy
Hoffman and Karen Mathews, Fontainebleau High School; and
Leslie Reese and Penny Edwards, Operation Jumpstart East. The
teachers acquired skills on how to implement engineering design and
project-based learning in their classes and help their students gain a
better understanding of the practical application of math and science.
HSTEAP Participants
The training offered expanded ways to change students’ views of
engineering and make it more attractive.
St. Tammany Parish Public Schools hosted a JASON Project training at Fontainebleau High School on July 22-23, 2013.
It was a two-day JASON Teacher Training session for teachers to learn how to use JASON’s
Climate and Operation: Tectonic Fury (Geology) curricula with
students. The session also included hands-on experiments, web site
navigation, exploration of the standards, and relevant management
skills. Clara Wilson of Mandeville High School, Anna Haldane of
Wildwood Elementary, and Donna Mansfield of Pitcher Junior
High School are pictured participating in one of the hands-on labs.
JASON Project Training
The New Teacher Induction Program for the St. Tammany Parish
Public Schools was held on July 16-18, 2013. July 16 was designated
as Curriculum Day where new teachers met with mentor teachers in
their content areas. Alicia Himber from Lakeshore High School
mentored the Grade 6-12 Science teachers. New teachers to the
STPS system, Nicole Blondeau from Slidell High School and
Christy Rodriquez from Slidell Junior High School, are shown
New Teacher Induction
participating in a data collection lab during the training.
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
Explore the three Dimensions of the Framework, the vision for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) at an LSTA
workshop for Region 2 members to be held on August 24, 2013, from 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM at the Covington Educational
Center, 71460 Edna Street, Covington, LA. The workshop is designed for all teachers of science in grades K-12. Dr.
Paulette Perrin and Kim Wood, St. Tammany Parish Science Curriculum Specialists, will be the presenters. Participation
will be limited to 30 members in the order the registration requests are received. Door prizes and refreshments will be
provided. To register, contact Dr. Paulette Perrin at paulette.perrin@stpsb.org.
 Region III 
Region 3 has been buzzing! The summer of 2013 has been very busy for the K-12
Teacher education programs at the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium
(LUMCON). Along with a very busy field trip schedule LUMCON, along with many
partners, also hosted several events for students and teachers.
The summer started with the 2013
From
H-2-O
water
quality
workshop.
Participants worked
with scientists and educators to
learn more about our watershed, Ship-Time and Shoreline
water quality monitoring, and ocean water conditions off the coast of
Louisiana during this 4-day workshop. Teachers were also treated to
coastal flyovers so they could see the hydrology of lower Terrebonne
Parish from the air. From H-2-O is funded by the Barataria-Terrebonne
National Estuary Program. Be on the lookout for announcements about
the 2014 workshop scheduled for June 4-7, 2014.
LUMCON also hosted its annual LEAD Camp from June 23rd to June
29th. Eighteen 7th-12th grade students
H-2-O Workshop
from around the state attended the weeklong residential camp. Students spent every day scientifically exploring the coastal marine
environments surrounding the marine center. Guest instructors from various LUMCON
research labs, Nicholls State University, LSU, and BTNEP joined in on the fun in the lab,
classroom and field. LEAD Camp is designed to provide students the opportunity to learn about
the important ecosystems located on the Louisiana coast through in-depth scientific
investigations. Students that attend LEAD Camp have access to the labs, scientific equipment,
vessels, and staff at LUMCON and partner programs. Be
sure to tell your students about this great summer opportunity. The 2014 camp is schedule for
June 22-28, 2014.
The Louisiana Environmental Education Association and LUMCON partnered to offer a Beyond
the Bay teacher workshop. This summer Beyond the Bay focused on the geology, anatomy, Lead Camp
and formation of Louisiana barrier islands. Teachers, LUMCON REU interns, and graduate students joined LUMCON
coastal geologist Dr. Alex Kolker and BTNEP public involvement coordinator Joe Dantin on an exploration of Trinity Island
located south of Cocodrie. The workshop gave participants the opportunity to explore the island from the beach side to the
low salt marshes located on the back side of the island. If you are interested in learning more about barrier islands be sure
to look for future announcements about upcoming Beyond the Bay workshops. Each workshop focuses on a different topic
related to barrier islands.
LUMCON and the Coastal Waters Consortium (CWC) joined forces to offer a 5 day teacher workshop that focused on field
research methods being used by researchers investigating the impacts of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The
workshop hosted in July was titled Ship Time & Shoreline. This workshop
was designed to expose teachers to field research methods through actual
field studies. Teachers spent 5 days in the field collecting samples and data
to help them better understand how oil spill research is being conducted by
scientists. The types of activities were biodiversity studies of salt marsh
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
insects and plants, benthic invertebrates, bay finfish and invertebrates, plankton, and
marine microbes. Teachers also studied fiddler crab burrows, collected profile data for
a barrier island and salt marsh, assessed sediment types and above/below ground
biomasses just to name a few. Ship Time & Shoreline is an exciting new opportunity
for any teacher that wants to experience field research first hand. This year’s workshop
featured many scientists from the CWC including Dr. Sabrina Taylor (LSU AgCenter),
Dr. Linda Hooper Bui (LSU), and Dr. John Marton (LUMCON) who accompanied the
group in the field to explain research techniques and background information.
Beyond the Bay
LUMCON is now taking requests for field trip dates for the 2013-2014 school year.
Available dates fill quickly so contact LUMCON soon! To request dates contact Murt
Conover at (985) 851-2860 or by email at mconover@lumcon.edu. If you are
interested in participating in any of these events or what new and exciting opportunities
are coming up, visit the LUMCON or CWC Facebook pages. To see great photos of
these
or
other
great
events
visit
http://gallery.lumcon.edu/
or
http://gallery.cwc.lumcon.edu/.
Tammy Guidry from Bayou Blue Elementary School and Jena Terrebonne from Raceland Upper Elementary School
attended the 2013 AGI K-5 Teacher Earth Science Leadership Academy in Houston, Texas June 24-28, 2013. During the
40 workshop hours, Tammy and Jena received Earth science content, hands-on activities, resources and field experiences
that they can use with their students in the classroom and with their colleagues in professional development settings.
If you have information on school news, grants, awards, activities and pictures to share in your area you can send it to me
at mahmorv@yahoo.com.
Region IV 
Region 4 NGSS Framework workshop will be held Saturday, August 31st at South Street Elementary in Opelousas from 9
a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Please submit news to your region representative, April Stone (als0520@slp.k12.la.us)
 Region V 
Nineteen teachers braved the heat of the Louisiana summer to attend the
NGSS Framework workshop. It was hot, but a little engineering was applied
by installing a misting hose on one side of Nature Lab and turning it on
periodically for anyone that needed to cool off. Small misting/fan bottles were
supplied for personal use and of course, lots of big fans. First teachers were
directed by Judy Reeves on the objectives of the Frameworks and Dimension
1. Dimension 2 was presented by Tina Savoie tying in a group activity and
actual class models. Gary Kratzer then took Dimension 3 applying it to the
Fallen-log activity from PLT. Teachers received detailed lesson plans and
worksheets. Teachers collected information at the sites visited, used iPads
and proscopes to photograph life forms, answered inquiry type questions on
site, and discussed their findings back at the classroom. Nature Lab was alive
with hands-on investigation. At the end, teachers received an explanation of
the current status of NGSS and plans for discussion about them this fall.
Tina Savoie, Gary K, and teachers
Judy Reeves was selected to attend an Oil and Gas immersion class in Farmington, New Mexico put on in a joint effort by
BP, NEED, and San Juan School of Energy. 19 teachers where chosen from around the U.S. for the course.
Please submit news to your region representative, Judy Reeves at Jrkat60@gmail.com.
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LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
 Region VI 
Congratulations to Erica Fontenot of Bayou Chicot Elementary School in Ville Platte. Erica was selected to take part in a
deep sea research in August with Dr. Robert Ballard and his team aboard the Nautilus. What a great learning experience
it will be! Go to www.nautiluslive.org for more information on the Nautilus.
Send all regional news to acapello@wlf.louisiana.gov.
 Region VII 
Glenn Larson, a teacher at LA New Tech in Bossier Parish, received an award for his hard
work promoting STEM. He received the Air Force Teacher of the Year award for the local and
state level. This now qualifies him for the national level.
The purpose of the AFA Aerospace Education Awards program is to recognize classroom
teachers at the state level for their achievements and efforts in getting K-12 students excited
about STEM, as well as preparing them to use and contribute to tomorrow's technologies.
Each state chooses one teacher that best exemplifies the purpose of the program and makes
coming to class an adventure for students.
Larson first won Chapter Teacher of the Year, which made him eligible to compete at the state
level. Now, he advances to the National Teacher of the Year competition.
Since joining the teaching staff at LA New Tech, Larson has added Physics to the high school's curriculum and formed two
Robotics teams. In their first year, the school placed first in the second of four Regional Autonomous Robotics Circuit
(RARC) competitions, sponsored by Cyber Innovation Center. That made a significant impact on students at LA New Tech,
and the level of interest in Robotics shot up.
In the summer of 2012, Larson co-led a team of sixth graders in the Junior Cyber Discovery Camp, which won Sumo Bot,
the final technical challenge. Boosted by that success, the middle school began competing and finished third out of 70 teams
in the first RARC competition.
To Larson's credit, he has applied for and been awarded grant money to purchase additional robots as well. He
also implemented LA New Tech's first STEM Day, where middle and high school students heard from speakers about the
need for STEM graduates and employment opportunities. And 17 students were able to take a field trip to Louisiana Tech's
Engineering and Science Day because of Larson's involvement.
This outstanding teacher's dedication and vigilance in pushing STEM is what landed him the honor of being named the AFA
Louisiana State Teacher of the Year and rightly so. Congratulations, Glenn! We wish you the best of luck competing at the
national level.
Send all region news to jbpfingsten@caddo.k12.la.us.
 Region VIII 
Cathi Cox-Boniol (Lincoln Parish Schools) returned to Oklahoma with Celeste
Baine of the Engineering Education Service Center in Springfield, Oregon, to
present a day of engineering design activities for teachers in the Stillwater
area. She was then selected as a panelist for the Public Square event entitled
“STEM Status: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in
Louisiana” that aired on Louisiana Public Broadcasting. Congratulations also
to Cathi for being named the recipient of the national Order of the Pearl
recognition awarded by Kappa Delta Sorority to alumnae who have achieved
prominence in professional and civic service at the national, state, and local
levels while representing the highest principles of the sorority.
LPB STEM Taping
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Cathi teamed up with Missy Wooley (New Tech @ Ruston) for presentations at the New Tech Annual Conference held in
New Orleans. Missy also attended the Habitudes Leadership event presented by the Cyber Innovation Center in Shreveport
and is currently developing a student program for New Tech @ Ruston based on her experience with it.
Stacy Campbell attended the Toshiba ExploraVision Awards Banquet where she had the opportunity to meet and network
with Bill Nye “The Science Guy.”
Chris celebrated three finalists from Simsboro High School for the Intel International
Science and Engineering Fair. As Chris Campbell
wrapped up his Einstein Fellowship in Washington
DC, he and wife Stacy were able to meet incredible
people like Constance “Connie” Carter, a 48 year
veteran of the Library of Congress and Head of the
Science Reference Section. Connie treated the
Campbell children, all students in the Lincoln Parish
District, to a tour while sharing her amazing wealth of
knowledge.
Stacy Campbell and Bill Nye “The Science
Guy”
Holly Payton (I. A. Lewis School) wrapped up the highly successful LA-SiGMA (Louisiana
International Science Fair
Alliance for Simulation and Guided Materials Applications) program held at Louisiana Tech
University this summer. Holly’s research focused on lithium batteries which led to the development of learning experiences
for her classroom that focus on creating hand batteries and lemon batteries. Following LA-SiGMA, Holly also participated
in Tech’s RIPPLE project, an inquiry-based physics project presented in partnership with LIGO and the Exploratorium.
Send your news for the October LASER to lyndsey.ewing@mcschools.net.
Louisiana Delegates attend National Congress for Science Education
Chris Campbell (Simsboro High School), Stacy Campbell (Ruston High School), and Shavonne Garner Price (I. A. Lewis
School) joined Nathan Cotten, Terrebonne Parish STEM Curriculum Specialist, in attending the National Congress for
Science Education held in Puerto Rico.
The National Congress on Science Education meets annually and
consists of one voting delegate from each of the 94 NSTA
Chapters and Associated Groups. The Congress meets to discuss
issues and bring forth recommendations that may be of interest to
NSTA and the science education community. Delegates and other
local leaders benefit from attending the summer congress, which
provides opportunities to
 Network with other science leaders from the US and
Canada;
 Attend leadership workshops to assist them in their
association role;
 Represent their members as a voting delegate;
 Attend focus groups to address national issues and
formulate debate and adopt resolutions;
 Meet and work with the NSTA elected leaders and staff.
LA Delegates with NSTA President, Bill Badders
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Professional Development Opportunities and Resources
Live Electronic Field Trip
August 20, 2013 and August 27, 2013 | 9:00 a.m.
Registration is now open for two live online electronic field trips highlighting careers in harvesting, processing, and marketing
seafood in Louisiana. Nearly one third of all seafood consumed in the United States is provided by Louisiana. Now your
students can see what is involved with careers in the industry and ask their questions of experts.
The traditions of catching, cooking and eating seafood are ingrained in Louisiana life. Choosing a career in the Louisiana
Seafood Industry supports the traditions, lifestyles and environment that have sustained the people of Louisiana and fed
the nation for centuries.
Register at www.lpb.org/etrips. The field trips will last about 40 minutes and are appropriate for middle and high school
students.
NSTA New Science Teacher Academy 2013-2014
Deadline: August 26, 2013
NSTA offers second- through fifth-year middle and high school science teachers the opportunity to participate in the New
Science Teacher Academy, a yearlong professional development and mentoring program co-founded with a grant from the
Amgen Foundation. Emphasizing quality science teaching, enhanced teacher confidence, classroom excellence, and solid
content knowledge, participants (Academy Fellows) enjoy top-notch face-to-face and online support and access to
comprehensive educational resources.
 All-expense-paid (accommodations, airfare, meals, and registration fees) trip to the NSTA National Conference on
Science Education, which will be in Boston next year!
o Attendance at a Professional Development Institute or a Research Dissemination Conference during the
National Conference
 Full membership in the National Science Teachers Association
 Access to facilitated, web-based curriculum devoted to content and classroom pedagogy
 E-mentoring from experts in the Fellow’s science discipline and grade level
 Professional development web seminars conducted by leaders in science education
Visit http://www.nsta.org/academy to for more information.
Teacher Learning Journeys
The NASA Aerospace Education Services Project (AESP), in collaboration with the National Science Teacher’s Association
(NSTA), is launching a new STEM educator professional development tool titled, "Teacher Learning Journeys (TLJ)". The
TLJ is a new approach to individualized STEM professional development designed to help teachers meet personal learning
goals and increase student learning and motivation. We use a travel metaphor to help teachers find, select, reflect,
implement and get recognition for completing learning activities.
“Teacher Learning Journeys” is an opportunity for no cost, independent, variable-duration, online teacher STEM
professional development. Educators can select, prioritize, and complete their PD paths, which allow them to find and make
use of specific resources, teaching strategies and content information they need for their students. Educators can apply for
digital stamps and badges, a form of recognition that explains the activity, required effort, and skills acquired. Educators
also receive feedback for their work from master educators. Finally, educators can generate a detailed record of their
independent PD in the form of an online and printable portfolio and certificate.
For more information and to begin your “journey”, please visit the website: http://tlj.psu.edu
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Quality Science and Math Grant
Application Deadline: Friday, September 13, 2013
Looking for a way to purchase math and science classroom materials? Are you in need of funding to support equipment
for your great ideas? Wish you could implement some ideas seen during last year’s conferences or professional
development training? The answer might be waiting for you through the Quality Math and Science Grant Program.
The Quality Science & Mathematics Grant Program (QSM) was established by R.S. 17:371-1 of the Louisiana Legislature
in the summer of 1992 for the purpose of providing grants to mathematics and science public school teachers for the
purchase of materials and equipment. The QSM program administered by the Gordon Cain STEM Center at LSU
(http://www.cain.lsu.edu) has approximately $162,000 in funds to award grants to eligible classroom teachers for the 201213 school year. Grants of up to $750 each for approved materials and equipment are awarded on a competitive basis to
individual classroom teachers to use in providing standards-based instruction to help meet state accountability goals.
Applicants must show that their proposals will enhance the quality of instruction for regular education students who are
enrolled in mathematics or science classes.
**NOTE: Only full-time classroom teachers assigned to teach mathematics or science in the K-12 regular education program
in public schools are eligible to submit proposals. Go to http://www.seasystem.net/cgi-bin/qsm/ for the full guidelines and
regulations.
“Give a Whoop” Workshop
Saturday, September 14, 2013 | Woodworth Education Facility | South of Alexandria, Louisiana
Join us for a day of fun and learning at LDWF’s beautiful Woodworth education facility south
of Alexandria! Learn about the WHOOPING CRANE reintroduction program and the crane’s
amazing journey back from the brink of extinction! Geared toward middle/high school teachers
and informal educators, this workshop will explain the complexities and challenges of the
reintroduction program, demonstrate the new classroom lesson activities, and engage
participants in field work related to habitat identification using GPS units.
Receive: 10 GLE aligned lessons, $75 stipend, GPS unit for your classroom, breakfast and lunch, and up
to 7.5 CLUs.
For a registration form and/or more information, contact: Sue Ellen Lyons, slyons@holycrosstigers.com or Carrie Salyers
csalyers@wlf.la.gov. Registration forms can be mailed, along with your $25 check to be reimbursed, to: Carrie Salyers,
LDWF, 102 Magnate Dr. Suite 201, Lafayette, LA 70508. (sponsored by Chevron)
NEON Citizen Science Academy
September 17 – October 16, 2013
The NEON Citizen Science Academy offers online courses for K-12 Formal and
Informal educators wanting to incorporate citizen science into their educational
programs. Each course is completely online and generally take 10-30 hours to
complete. For those interested in teacher re-certification, all of our courses can
be taken for two optional graduate-level continuing education credits from
Colorado School of Mines. For more information, please read our FAQ page at http://citizenscienceacademy.org/FAQ.
Registration is still open for the Fall Sessions. Each course is limited to 50 participants.
September 17 – October 16
 Introduction to Project BudBurst for Educators
 Using Project BudBurst Data in an Educational Setting
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The Great NATURE Project
September 21-29, 2013
National Geographic invites you to share plants and animals from your world
with the whole world. During this weeklong celebration of biodiversity, we
encourage you to grab a camera, get outside and explore the incredible nature
this planet has to offer. By participating, you can help us achieve a Guinness
World Record title for the largest online photo album of animals!
To join in the project, snap a photo of a plant or animal in your area, then upload
to a photo sharing community using the hashtag #GreatNature. To participate
in the record attempt, add #animal to any photo of an animal.
Mark your calendars now for the Great Nature Project, September 21-29, 2013. To learn more and sign up for this exciting
project, click here. Alecia Jurado, National Geographic Education Programs, (202)775-6537, ajurado@ngs.org
Energy4me Education Programs
October 2, 2013 | Morial Convention Center | New Orleans, Louisiana
“Energize Your Classroom” Teacher Workshop (grades 4-12)
Educators will receive comprehensive, objective information about the scientific
concepts of energy and its global significance while discovering the world of oil and
natural gas exploration and production. A variety of free instructional materials will be
available to take back to the classroom. Activities will include a technology tour of the
world’s leading oil and natural gas technology exhibitions, a keynote presentation and
age appropriate hands-on classroom activities provided by the National Energy Education Development Project (NEED).
Curriculum is correlated to Louisiana science objectives and other disciplines.
Thanks to the generous sponsorship from ExxonMobil there is no cost to attend. Teachers
will receive a substitute reimbursement form at the end of the workshop. Breakfast and lunch
will be provided. Apply today!
Ocean Exploration Workshops
October 12, 2013 2013 | Audubon Aquarium of the Americas | New Orleans, Louisiana
Application Deadline: September 20, 2013
NOAA's Ocean Exploration Program and partners offer the Okeanos
Explorer Education Materials Collection, Why Do We Explore?
Professional Development Workshops for Educators. Participants
will receive curriculum with CD-ROM’s, certificates of participation,
and more. Contact the noted educator or check out the website for
registration and more information.
For
more
information,
contact
tleblanc@AudubonInstitute.org.
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Tricia
LeBlanc
at
LASER August 2013
Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
New App Review Site
Graphite
The sheer volume of new learning apps being created every day
poses a key challenge for educators looking to teach with mobile
devices, as many teachers say they don’t have time to find and
evaluate the best apps for their classrooms. But a brand-new
service could help.
Called Graphite (www.graphite.org), it’s a free online portal to help
educators from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade find, use, and
share the best digital apps, games, and websites for their students.
Created by Common Sense Media with funding from the Bill &
Melinda Gates Foundation, the service contains objective ratings of
apps and other digital learning resources from professional
reviewers, along with reviews from dozens of “Graphite Educators,”
teachers who are hand-picked by Common Sense Media. The nonprofit children’s media group says its system is the first
centralized source for unbiased reviews of the learning potential of apps developed for a variety of platforms.
Users can search for reviews of resources by subject, grade level, cost (free, “freemium,” or paid), and resource type (app,
game, or website). An option at the top of the page, called “Top Picks,” reveals the best-reviewed resources on the site.
When you click on a review, it tells you the price, the grade levels the app is most appropriate for, setup time, platforms
(iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire, or Nook HD), and subject areas—with a link to specific standards the app
meets. There’s also a list of skills the app meets, too (such as “memorization, thinking critically”…), and the review indicates
whether the resource includes a teacher dashboard and who the maker is.
For each review, users will see a “Graphite Rating” and a “Teacher Rating,” each based on a five-point scale. These ratings
use a rubric with three dimensions: Engagement, Pedagogy, and Support. The maximum score within each dimension is
five points as well.
New Apps for Science
PhysicalSci
The Interactive Physical Science Glossary app is a review and study tool for learning physical science glossary and content.
This reference tool is a glossary of physical science terms presented through simulations, video, science content, and flash
cards. (Requirements: compatible with iPad.)
The presentation is geared toward middle and high school students and appeals to a wide range of learning styles. Best of
all, it’s FREE!
Features: The Physical Science app’s topics are:
• Energy & Systems
• Force & Motion
• Electricity & Magnetism
• Matter & Energy
• Light & Optics
• Sound & Waves
Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/physicalsci/id510133269?mt=8
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Next Generation Science Standards App
NSTA is excited to announce, in partnership with MasteryConnect, a free app for the Next
Generation Science Standards. MasteryConnect, the makers of the most downloaded app for the
Common Core (with over 700,000 downloads), has created a great way to get the standards in the
palm of your hand ... through an app on your tablet or mobile device.
The Next Generation Science Standards app gives you multiple ways to view the standards including
DCI and Topic arrangements, and also includes convenient search functionality. The app also
makes referencing standards in the Common Core simple by providing a linkage between the NGSS
App and MasteryConnect's Common Core App.
You can download the Next Generation Science Standards app (as well as MasteryConnect's other free apps) by searching
"MasteryConnect" or "Next Generation Science Standards" in your app store or visiting the iOS Store or Android
Marketplace. Look for the app to be available in the Windows Store soon.
Websites to Explore
Birds and Climate Change?
In the summer of 2012, northern parts of the United States got an unexpected visitor—a bird known as the dickcissel. What
caused this bird to stray from its normal home? Find out how NASA satellites help answer that very question in the latest
Climate Kids article. Also included is a fun bird feeder activity—discover what birds live in your own neighborhood! Go to
http://climatekids.nasa.gov/extreme-weather-birds/. Climate Kids is a NASA educational website about climate change and
sustainability. It targets upper-elementary-age children.
Volcanic Eruption
For earth science teachers, CNL World has posted a new resource on Pavlof Volcano in the Aleutian Islands on the IcEarth
website (icearth.cnlworld.org). The volcano recently erupted in May and June with a spectacular image acquired from the
International Space Station. This image and four page synopsis discuss the geology, eruption, and impacts of Pavlof, and
provides a briefing on the International Space Station. For environmental science teachers discussion is presented on the
effect of airborne volcanic ash on air traffic and aircraft. A series of inquiry questions are presented as class activities and
further explorations. The resource is free for use and download.
BioMan Biology
The website (www.biomanbio.com), was developed by a Biology
teacher and can be used to help students learn biology. It has many
biology learning games on it as well as quizzes and it is completely
free to use. It also is great for assessing student learning because
each activity has a score sheet at the end that can be printed or emailed. Below you can find the links to these games .
There are some cool new things to check out on BioMan Biology! If you have an iPad (or iPhone), you can download two
of my games as apps from the App Store!



"Cell Defense: The Plasma Membrane" is available at:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cell-defense-plasma-membrane/id590366812?mt=8
"Snurfle Meiosis and Genetics" is available at:
"https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/snurfle-meiosis/id590881394?mt=8"
Science Game Center: www.ScienceGameCenter.org
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K12 Educator Community site for Life Sciences
The American Physiological Society (APS) offers a new K12 Educator Community site, including middle school and high
school educators forums, and more at http://www.apsarchive.org/community.cfm?c=29#resources.
NGSS on NASA's Climate Kids
NASA’s Climate Kids website just got a lot more teacher-friendly. The website now features a new helpful tool for
educators—an easy to use page that identifies articles that align with the Next Generation Science Standards. Search for
articles and activities that match the standards’ disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, or cross cutting
concepts. Check it out at http://climatekids.nasa.gov/science-standards.
The 7 Es of Lesson Planning
Teacher tool found at http://educatingmatters.wordpress.com/the-6-es-of-lesson-planning.
Additional information is found at Teaching Science - http://geordiescience.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/planning-using-5es-or7es-of-lesson.html
Tech in EDU
For the latest blogs, news, and information on using technology in Education, visit
http://techinedu.com/?xg_source=msg_mes_network.
Science E-Blast
Twice a month science and math teachers in Louisiana are receiving information on grants, teaching materials, workshop
opportunities, various programs, and conferences by receiving the E-Blast like the one shown here:
http://lsta.info/labap%20eblast.php.
If you would like to be on the distribution list, contact jean.may-brett@la.gov with your name, school name and email
address.
DON’T FORGET TO CHECK THE LSTA WEBSITE FOR MORE WORKSHOP AND GRANT INFORMATION!
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Share your news with your regional representative!
Alice Chiveleatto
Region 1 Representative
achivleatto@cox.net
April Stone
Region 4 Representative
als0520@slp.k12.la.us
JoNell Pfingsten
Region 7 Representative
jbpfingsten@caddo.k12.la.us
Paulette Perrin
Region 2 Representative
paulette.perrin@stpsb.org
Judy Reeves
Region 5 Representative
Jrkat60@gmail.com
Lyndsey Ewing
Region 8 Representative
lyndsey.ewing@mcschools.net
Michelle Morvant
Region 3 Representative
mmorvant.tes@lafourche.k12.la.us
Angela Capello
Region 6 Representative
acapello@wlf.louisiana.gov
Nathan Cotten
LASER Editor
nathancotten@tpsd.org
If you think you’d like to represent science teachers in your region, consider applying for a position as regional
representative! See page 4 of this newsletter for more details!
Future Newsletter Deadlines:
 Friday, September 27
 Friday, November 29
Einstein Fellowship: The End?
At the end of every school year as we pack up and clean our classrooms, we tend to reflect on
how the year went and may even wonder how it went by so fast. Many teachers may be moving
to another classroom or school - and what a challenge that is! The end of this year was a little
different for me, but it still ended with reflections and wondering where the year went. I spent
the school year away from Simsboro High for the Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator
Fellowship Program (www.trianglecoalition.org/einstein-fellows) and will be returning to
Simsboro for 2013-2014. I packed up my one-bedroom apartment near the National Science
Foundation (NSF), sent boxes back to Ruston, and said goodbyes to my new friends and
colleagues.
Webster’s Dictionary defines fellowship as “a group of people with the same interests;
company; brotherhood.” While I would add “sisters” to that definition, it is the way I think about
the Einstein Fellowship. The fellowship brings a group of STEM educators from around the country together for 11 months
to learn about and inform educational policy within federal agencies such as NSF, NASA, DOE, and on Capitol Hill. I was
able to work in a very unique place within the NSF - the Industrial Innovation and Partnerships (IIP) division which funds
small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. I was able to meet and work with some amazing people, see presentations
from rising tech start-ups, and attend several conferences such as the Consumer Electronics Show, ISTE, and
NSTA. However, the most beneficial aspect was the fellowship with the other 25 teachers in the cohort. The conversations,
panels, and meetings together with them has been simply amazing and the best professional development of my career so
far.
Chris Campbell
I am especially excited that a fellow Louisianan, Dr. Steve Griffin of Woodlawn High School will be the Einstein Fellow at
IIP next year. I know Steve will enjoy his fellowship year at IIP and he and Louisiana will be better for the experience.
I really appreciate the Einstein Fellows, Triangle Coalition staff, and the support from Lincoln Parish for giving me such an
amazing fellowship. My work with each of them has inspired, challenged, and directed me to improve myself and opportunity
for all students. I am positive this is not the end, rather the beginning of our fellowship.
-Chris Campbell
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Student Opportunities and Events
National Rocket Competition
Registration Deadline: August 31st
Get your kids into the 7th annual Reach for the Stars ~ National Rocket Competition.
To help you get started we are including a FREE Launch Set (value over $25) with every order for one dozen or more
Competitor Packs (less than. $14 each)





Competitor Packs include: rocket kit, supplies for 2 launches, certificate & Registration in the national competition.
Total cost – $165 for 12 Competitor Packs & Launch Set - delivered to you
Available from Estes or Quest.
Competition is held at your location. No travel hassle or expense.
www.TheRocketman.net
Coleopterists Society Youth Incentive Awards
Application Deadline: November 1, 2013
The Coleopterists Society, an international
organization of professionals and hobbyists
interested in the study of beetles, has
established a program to recognize young
people studying beetles. The Society has pledged to provide up to $300 each year for the Youth Incentive Award Program.
Each of the two awards (Junior and Senior) is a monetary grant of $150, award recipients also will receive up to $200
(Junior Award) and $400 (Senior Award) of equipment credit from the BioQuip Products catalog, In addition to monetary
and BioQuip grants, award recipients will receive a one year subscription to the society journal, The Coleopterists Bulletin.
This is ONLY for children of grades 7-12.
The objectives of the Youth Incentive Awards are to:
 provide encouragement and assistance to young beetle enthusiasts (grades 7-12).
 promote the study of beetles, the most diverse group of insects, as a rewarding lifelong avocation or career.
 provide opportunities for young people to develop important life skills such as leadership, cooperation,
communication, planning and conducting a scientific study, grant writing and managing funds.
 provide some financial support to enrich activities or projects.
A Youth Incentive Awards Committee from the Coleopterists Society will evaluate the applications and will select up to two
winners annually; one each in junior (grades 7-9) and senior (grades 10-12) categories. The selection committee invites
proposals for topics such as field collecting trips to conduct beetle species inventories or diversity studies, attending
workshops or visiting entomology or natural history museums for special training and projects on beetles, studying aspects
of beetle biology, etc. The proposed activities or projects will be evaluated on their degree of creativity, educational benefit
to the applicant, scientific merit, feasibility and budgetary planning. This Award is for proposals by individuals only.
Additional details and application forms for The Coleopterists Society Youth Incentive Award Program can be obtained
from: Dr. David G. Furth; Entomology, NHB, MRC 165; P.O. Box 37012; Smithsonian Institution; Washington, D. C. 200137012 (phone: 202-633-0990, FAX: 202-786-2894, email: furthd@si.edu).
For more information, go to The Coleopterists Society WebPage.
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PHysiology UNderstanding Week
November 4-8, 2013
The theme for PhUn Week is the physiology of Exercise & Health. Biomedical researchers and members
of their laboratory partner with a local area teacher to adapt and customize instructional materials for a
classroom visit or school assembly program. The team engages students in relevant learning
experiences through interactive, hands-on physiology activities. Through this real-life, face-to-face
encounter with scientists, students learn about how their bodies function and how medical discoveries
are made.
GOALS of the American Physiological Society’s annual Physiology Understanding (PhUn) Week:
 Increase student interest in and understanding of physiology in their lives
 Increase teacher recognition of physiology in their standards-based science curriculum
 Introduce students to physiology as a possible career
 Involve more physiologists in outreach to the students and teachers in their communities
www.PhUnWeek.org
2013-2014 Future City Competition
January 25, 2014 | Southeastern Louisiana University Campus | Hammond, Louisiana
The Louisiana 2013-14 Future City competition
A new round of the national Future City competition is to take place on January 25th, 2014 on the Southeastern Louisiana
University campus. Students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade imagine, design, and build cities of the future. Students work as a team
with an educator and engineer mentor to plan cities using SimCity™ Deluxe software; research and write solutions to an
engineering problem; build tabletop scale models with recycled materials; and present their ideas before judges at Regional
Competitions in January. Regional winners compete at the National Finals in Washington, DC in February (expenses for
the team’s trip to DC are picked up by the national office). See details at www.FutureCity.org.
This year’s research topic - Tomorrow's Transit: Design a way to move people in and around your city. Students will
research and write an essay (maximum 1,000 words) in which they design a way to move people around and in your city.
What is Future City?
The Future City Competition is a national, project-based learning experience where students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade
imagine, design, and build cities of the future. Students work as a team with an educator and engineer mentor to plan cities
using SimCity™ 4 Deluxe software; research and write solutions to an engineering problem; build tabletop scale models
with recycled materials; and present their ideas before judges at Regional Competitions in January. Regional winners
represent their region at the National Finals in Washington, DC in February.
Future City Engages Kids in Engineering and So Much More...
This flexible, cross-curricular educational program gives students an opportunity to do the things that engineers do—identify
problems; brainstorm ideas; design solutions; test, retest and build; and share their results. This process is called the
engineering design process. With this at its center, Future City is an engaging way to build students’ 21st century skills.
Students participating in Future City:
• Apply math and science concepts to real-world issues
• Develop writing, public speaking, problem solving, and time management skills
• Research and propose solutions to engineering challenges
• Discover different types of engineering and explore careers options
• Learn how their communities work and become better citizens
• Develop strong teamwork skills
Visit www.FutureCity.org
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Louisiana Science Teachers Association Newsletter (www.lsta.info)
LSTA Membership / Change of Address Form
Membership Dues (Check one box.)
1 year membership $15.00
3 year membership $40.00
Full Time Student - 1 year membership $10.00
Name: ____________________________________________________________________________
Email Address: _____________________________________________________________________
*** Email must be provided to receive correspondences from LSTA (including LASER)***
Check here if you are interested in receiving the science E-blast!
Alternative Email Address: _____________________________________________________________
Parish: ____________________________________________________________________________
Preferred Mailing Address (Check one box):
Home
Work
School
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Contact Phone: _____________________________________________________________________
***Helpful when serving on committees (not required***
Print and mail form with dues to:
LSTA Membership
1627 Taylor Street
Kenner, LA 70062
ALL CHECKS SHOULD BE MADE PAYABLE TO: LSTA
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