Join the next cohort of accomplished STEM teachers as they take on deep inquiry, informal learning connections, and career-based learning opportunities alongside engineers, researchers, and museum specialists. Be a part of a community of teacher leaders who wish to expand upon their practice, explore basic science research, and return to the classroom feeling energized and empowered.
This program is designed for K-12 teachers in around the National Capital Region who seek to infuse science, technology, engineering, and math into their lessons and explore interdisciplinary project design. Participants in this program will receive a $1,000 stipend and educational resources for their classroom.
STEM Teacher Leadership academy
An immersive professional development experience for K-12 educators in the National Capital Region.
Applications for the 2025 STEM Teacher Leadership Academy Open on November 8th!
Key Dates:
Friday, November 8, 2024: Applications open on this website at 10:00 AM EST
Friday, February 28, 2025: Applications close at 11:59 PM EST
Week of March 17, 2025: All applicants are notified via email
May 2025: Virtual meet-up for 2025 cohort
July 28 - August 1, 2025: 2025 STEM Teacher Leadership Academy in Washington, D.C.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
Licensed, practicing K-12 educators in the National Capital Region teaching one or more of the STEM content areas (science, technology, engineering, and/or math). We strongly encourage teachers working in Title 1 Schools to apply.
Selected participants must be available to take part in the full week of programming (July 28 - August 1, 2025) and have reliable transportation to our program site(s) in Washington, D.C.
Educators who have developed interdisciplinary STEM projects in the past or are interested in developing such projects in the future.
WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT?
During the STEM Teacher Leadership Academy, educators will take part in hands-on workshops and gain a deeper understanding of STEM concepts from a variety of subject matter experts within the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. Participants will also have the unique opportunity to explore informal learning practices within the National Air and Space Museum and other institutions in Washington, D.C. Past programs also included site visits to the International Spy Museum and the National Museum of Natural History.
Our mission is to provide a space for authentic learning, creative problem-solving, and cooperative planning for K-12 teachers who are looking to expand upon their skillset and learn more about basic science research
FAQs:
How much does it cost to participate?
There is no cost for teachers to participate. The only expenses you may need to consider are related to transportation and lunch. Every participant will receive a $1,000 stipend upon completion of the program.
Is transportation included?
Applicants are expected to provide their own transportation to our sites during this week of programming. If you have questions or concerns about transportation or accessibility, please contact us.
Do I need to commit to the full week?
Yes, it is expected that participants will attend all five days of programming.
Will participants receive recertification points?
Yes, you will receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the program with 40 hours of points for recertification.
Are you looking for a particular grade level/content area for applicants?
Our goal is to build as diverse as a cohort as possible, which includes STEM practitioners working with a wide range of students. We will primarily consider applications from K-12 STEM teachers in the National Capital Region.
What counts as the “National Capital Region”?
You can use this handy National Capital Region Map as a guide. We will consider applicants who teach within this zone.
How will I know if I have been accepted?
Applicants will be notified the week of March 10, 2025 if they have been selected to participate. We will notify all applicants via email of their application status.
How many participants will be accepted in 2025?
We will accept up to 20 teacher participants in the STEM Teacher Leadership Academy in Summer 2025.
Have questions about the STEM Teacher Leadership Academy? Please fill out the form below and a member of the AFOSR STEM Team will respond shortly. Thank you for your interest!