TEAM Science succeeds in supporting Missouri K-6 STEM teachers: A review of a 2-year experience-driven series of workshops

Technology and Educators Advancing Missouri Science (TEAM Science) is a collaborative partnership between two public schools, five charter schools, a university and several national, state and local organizations and businesses. Informed by Missouri Learning Standards (MLS) and Performance Goals (PG), in addition to national standards, TEAM Science utilized a blended-learning environment to provide differentiated, relevant, and engaging professional development for K-6 teachers in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area emphasizing the impact of global climate change within the program's major theme of "Earth as a System".

The holistic nature of science and its interconnectedness was reinforced by weaving foundational physical science concepts into each of the years (Life Science Yr 1 and Earth/Space Science Yr 2). Specialized training further expanded the teachers' content knowledge and access to grade-appropriate nationally recognized authentic inquiry-based curricular materials, e.g., Project WET, Missouri Department of Conservation's Discover Nature Schools, and with NASA certification, teachers gained access to lunar rock and meteorite samples. Additional organizations/businesses contributing to the program include: Bat Call ID, KC STEM Alliance, Rockhurst University, Ozark Underground Laboratory, Fundamental Technologies, LLC, and the Rockhurst University STEAM Studio.

This two-year vertically-aligned and project-based program (requiring 280+ instructional hours) expanded the depth and breadth of knowledge in life, earth/space and physical sciences for 45 cohort teachers and their 45 mentees. Additionally, it increased their ability to apply engineering principles and utilize appropriate technology while integrating Mathematics and English Language Arts (ELA).