Fostering STEM Institute: Teacher Edition

Fostering STEM Institute: Teacher Edition is a professional learning experience designed for teachers who are ready to advance their instructional practices, strengthen STEM culture, and grow as teacher leaders within their schools.

Anchored in the Fostering STEM Framework and the Quality Model for STE(A)M Education, the program develops teachers’ capacity to deliver high‑quality STEM instruction and build and influence STEM culture across their school community.

By learning in authentic environments, such as model STEM schools and industry partner sites, participants experience firsthand how strong STEM pedagogy, real‑world contexts, and collaborative reflection drive meaningful instructional advancement.

Apply By May 15, 2026
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Core topics

  • Characteristics of high‑quality STEM instruction
  • Building and sustaining a STEM culture within classrooms, teams, and the broader school community
  • Collaborative strategies to strengthen
    • STEM pedagogy and instructional practice
    • Student STEM identity and sense of belonging
    • Habits of mind essential to STEM learning
  • Core attributes of effective STEM instructional approaches
  • Supporting and mentoring colleagues and new faculty through shared practice and reflection
  • Setting, implementing, and reflecting on instructional goals aligned to STEM best practices

Learning outcomes

Participants will:

  • Deepen understanding of effective STEM pedagogy and instructional design
  • Apply the Fostering STEM Framework to classroom instruction and collaborative practice
  • Engage in observation, reflection, and coaching‑informed conversations with peers
  • Explore authentic learning through school‑based experiences and industry partnerships
  • Develop leadership skills to support STEM instruction beyond their own classroom
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What sets this program apart

  • Provides in‑school learning experiences that immerse educators directly in STEM environments
  • Offers authentic classroom observations to see STEM instructional practices in real time
  • Includes teacher panels where practicing STEM educators share honest insights and strategies
  • Features open discussions with administrators who lead and shape STEM school culture
  • Ensures learning is practical, relevant, and immediately applicable to classroom practice

 

Program details

Apply By May 15, 2026

Eligibility

This program is intended for:

  • Teachers interested in advancing STEM instructional practices
  • Educators from schools with an existing STEM focus or interest in incorporating STEM strategies
    • STEM/STEAM designation not required
  • Teachers ready to collaborate, reflect, and grow as instructional leaders

Thanks to Ohio’s generous support of the Ohio STEM Learning Network, the $1,250 program fee for the 2026-2027 Fostering STEM Institute: Teacher Edition is waived.

Expectations

The program expectations include:

  • Attending program meetings (virtual and in-person)
    • In-person meeting: September 16 and 17, 2026
    • In-person meeting: December 2, 2026
    • Virtual check-in meeting: Week of January 18, 2027
    • In-person meeting: March 11, 2027
  • Completing program tasks and activities
  • Implementing the strategies learned in the cohort during the 2026-2027 school year
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Program structure

The program structure includes four in‑person days across the school year and one virtual check-in meeting.

Each session includes:

  • Opportunities to explore STEM teaching and learning through classroom observations, educator panels, and discussions with school leaders
  • Structured reflection and collaborative dialogue with peers
  • Content focused on instructional practice, collaboration, and authentic STEM learning

Lunch will be provided during all in‑person sessions.

Meeting dates and locations

September 16 and 17, 2026: Two full day in-person sessions

  • Day 1: Kickoff hosted at Battelle
  • Day 2: Hosted at a Central Ohio STEM school

December 2, 2026: One full day in‑person session at a Central Ohio STEM school

Week of January 18, 2027: Virtual touch‑base meeting

  • Participants will schedule a 30–45 minute individual or small-group virtual check-in during the week at a time that works best for their schedule.

March 11, 2027: One full day in‑person session at a Central Ohio STEM school

Do you have questions or need more information?

Contact the Ohio STEM Learning Network.

Email OSLN