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   Amber Quirk

   Regional Superintendent 

   DuPage County Schools

Regional Office of Education

421 N. County Farm Rd

Wheaton, IL 60187

630.407.5800

The STEM Insider

March 2025

NEWS

Wood Dale JH Future City Win State!

Congratulations to the Wood Dale JH Future City Team that won several awards at the Chicago Regional Competition on January 18 and advanced to the Nationals in Washington, D.C. Can't wait to share more good news about this group's work and achievements.


The Impact of AI on Educational Innovation

AI-based learning systems and tools can enhance critical and transformative thinking as the shift toward personalized, data-driven learning experiences promises significant advancements in teaching and learning practices. Read more.


Why So Many Students Struggle With Math Anxiety

The need for people with strong math skills continues to grow faster than the pool of candidates. Even jobs like carpentry and mechanics require basic algebra skills. Math anxiety may play a role. Learn about some ways to help tackle the challenge.


Shifting to Windows 11

As schools look to upgrade before Windows 10 support formally ends in October 2025, they must first determine if their technology can run the new OS. The upgrade itself will time consuming, in addition to helping staff navigate the new system. Access the full article.

EVENTS

Envigorate Math Learning with Math Words and Discussions - March 18, 2025: 9 am - 3 pm

Explore strategies for crafting engaging interactive math tasks, aligning them with learning goals, and facilitating meaningful discussions that encourage every student to contribute and thrive. Designed for K-5 teachers. Interested? Click here for more information.


NIU STEAM Summer Camps - Early Registration Ends April 15

We might be in the throes of very early spring, but summer is right around the corner! Take a look at our full camp website to learn more. Early bird registration ends April 15, so register now!


Morton Arboretum Summer Camps and Classes

The Arborertum's innovative summer science camp registration is open to the public. Listen to stories, meet children's book authors, and learn about the local resources to support literacy for all children in Tales from the Great Outdoors. For more information, click here.


Sustainable Design Challenge - Apply by April 7, 2025 for the April 15, 2025 Event

High school students are invited to work in teams to design and construct a sustainable building model in competition for cash prizes of up to $500. The 19th Annual Sustainable Design Challenge is brought to you by SCARCE and DuPage County Stormwater Management. Apply by April 7.


Genes in Space 2025 - Apply by April 14, 2025

Have you ever wondered how astronauts would survive a deep-space mission or how we will use biology to transform new worlds? Genes in Space invites students in grades 7-12 to propose DNA experiments to be conducted on the International Space Station. Access details here.


Northwestern Research Experience for Teachers (RET) - Applications due April 18, 2025

Participants in the 2025, 8-week program receive an $8500 stipend and engage in research, develop a network of scientific colleagues, learn scientific and technological developments, and discover ways to transfer this knowledge to the classroom. The program is open to middle school, high school, and community college teachers. Apply by April 18 here.


Let’s Get Math-ISH! Teaching Mindset Mathematics Across the Grades - April 29, 2025; Addison

Join Dr. Jo Boaler as she shares her insights about teaching and learning mathematics. A "mindset mathematics" approach allows participants to open various pathways, leading to higher and more equitable achievement. For more information, click here.


STEM Network Meeting - May 6, 2025; Naperville Settlement

The next STEM Network meeting will take place on May 6 from 4:00 - 5:15 pm at the Napeville Settlement, 523 South Webster Ave., Naperville. One PD Hour is available to licensed educators. Light snacks will be provided and raffle prizes will be awarded. Register here.


The Baxter Center Symposium - May 12, 2025; Chicago Botanic Garden

Join The Baxter Center for Science Education as they celebrate their 15th anniversary on Monday, May 12, 2025 from 8 am to 5 pm at the Chicago Botanic Garden with a day of learning led by talented presenters. Registration opens March 17, 2025.


Exelon Girls STEM Academy for HS Girls - June 22-27, 2025 - DePaul University (Chicago)

Girl students in the class of 2026 or 2027 can apply to join the Exelon Foundation STEM Academy, a totally free, week-long residential experience. Click here to learn more about the qualifcations and how to apply.

RESOURCES

Go! For Launch

Accelerator Media, a nonprofit organization that creates educational media to inspire curiosity and lifelong learning, released "Go! For Launch," a podcast for high school students. Explore STEM careers and conversations with professionals tackling global challenges, while offering insights into career pathways, unique learning opportunities, and resources. Watch or listen here: YouTube | Spotify Apple Podcasts


IDNR - Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant - Applications available March 2025

K-12 teachers may apply for up to $2000 to fund projects that emphasize student involvement in planning, implementing, and maintaining a natural habitat in a public place. Awardees must commit to the project for at least five years. Read more about this opportunity.


DuPage ROE STEM Squad Is Here to Support You

Each school year presents intriguing opportunities to integrate new STEM ideas and activities. The STEM Squad can partner with you in a number of ways, from planning to implementation. Explore a few of these listed below. Thinking of something not included? Simply ask and we will do our best to help. Email Dr. Mary Biniewicz.


  • STEM - It's Elementary - various topics for grades K-5
  • After School Outreach - various topics for grades 6-8
  • STEM Trunks - geared toward K-12
  • Plus we offer a website with numerouse resources; sponsor a STEM Network group; and can assist with activities when you plan a STEM event or host an activity at your STEM event.

March and April STEM Celebrations and Themes

Below are some links to several STEM learning opportunities

Women in STEM History Month - March

Middle School eBooks

Vivify System

Science Buddies


Pi Day - March 14

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

Middle School Ideas

MENSA for Kids


World Water Day - March 22

UNICEF

Twinkl.com

Water Cycle Ideas

Edutopia

April Fool's Day - April 1

Pitsco Education

Ward's World

Optical Illusions

Tricks, Pranks, and Illusions


National Robotics Week - April 5-12

National Robotics Week

STEM in the Middle

PBS


Earth Day - April 22

SCARCE

Science Buddies

earthday.com

Visit our website for more information and resources!

Direct newsletter questions, comments, and suggestions to Dr. Mary Biniewicz.

STEM Fun and Learning in DuPage County

Enjoy the photos of some of the learning opportunities supported

by the DuPage ROE STEM Squad.