DFSME has had the distinct pleasure of meeting with Cindy Marten, Delaware Secretary of Education, and we welcome her to Delaware and our STEM Network of Business, Education and Government leaders who focus on a quality science and math education for every student in Delaware. Cindy has spent 32 years as an educator holding positions as teacher, literacy specialist, vice principal, principal and superintendent. She came to Delaware after serving as U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education from 2021 to 2025. Welcome Cindy!


DFSME is working with Carrie Evick in her new tenure as Science Education Associate at Delaware Department of Education, in the effort of promoting Science and STEM education. Carrie has taught biology and anatomy and physiology for 20 years at Cape Henlopen High School. She received Delaware Bio’s “Educator of the Year” award for her work in helping develop Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Delaware students, as well as being an experienced NGSS facilitator. We look forward to future collaborations leading to inspirations for our Delaware Educators. Welcome, Carrie!

 

March is Women’s History Month. This year’s theme is “Moving Forward Together”, highlighting and supporting women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship and leadership in shaping the minds and futures of all generations. During the month of March, we give extra attention to the amazing accomplishments of four strong, determined women.

 

Additionally, we report on several other important STEM happenings, including Engineering Your Tomorrow and the YES! Youth Environmental Summit – as well as sharing springtime news and upcoming events. These are exciting STEM times for Delaware educators and learners!

 

– Randy Guschl, Executive Director

Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education

 

We hope you enjoy this Edition!

Stories of Women in STEM – Free Download

Do you know who created the paper bag machine or who researches invertebrate sea life at the world's largest museum and research complex?


For too long, women’s contributions to science have widely gone untold. The Smithsonian Science Education Center, Smithsonian American’s Women History Initiative, and Johnson & Johnson created Stories of Women in STEM at the Smithsonian to champion the ingenuity that has transformed America and beyond.


Stories of Women in STEM at the Smithsonian features biographies of trailblazing women who made history through their scientific discoveries and innovation. Learn how women have overcome challenges and setbacks to advance the science, technology, engineering, and math industry.


To download Stories of Women in STEM at the Smithsonian, click here.

Inspiring Women Who Shaped STEM Fields

 

In honor of #WomensHistoryMonth we share amazing stories about four women who have made an impact in STEM and helped pave the way for the women in STEM today.

Marie Curie: Pioneer of Radio Activity

1867 – July 4, 1934


Marie Curie was a physicist and chemist who conducted pioneering research on radioactivity. Her discoveries of radium and polonium lead to significant advancements in medicine and science. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, the first person to win a Nobel Prize twice, and the only person to win a Nobel Prize in two scientific fields. Her husband, Pierre Curie, was a co-winner of her first Nobel Prize, making them the first married couple to win the Nobel Prize and launching the Curie family legacy of five Nobel Prizes.

Mae Jemison: Former NASA Astronaut

Born 1956


Dr. Mae Carol Jemison, is an engineer, physician, and former NASA astronaut. She became the first African-American woman to travel into space in 1992 when serving as a mission specialist aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Jemison joined NASA's astronaut corps in 1987 and was selected to serve for the STS-47 mission, during which the Endeavour orbited the Earth for nearly eight days. She later formed a non-profit educational foundation, wrote several children's books and appeared in a 1993 episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. She was inducted into the Nat'l Women's Hall of Fame and the Internat'l Space Hall of Fame.

Rosalind Franklin: DNA Pioneer

1920 – July 4, 1958


Rosalind Elsie Franklin was a chemist and X-ray crystallographer. Her work was central to the understanding of the molecular structures of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), RNA (ribonucleic acid), viruses, coal, and graphite. Franklin is best known for her work on x-ray diffraction images, and key to discovering the DNA double helix structure. Her work laid the foundation for modern genetics. Although her works on coal and viruses were appreciated during her lifetime, Franklin's contributions to the discovery of the structure of DNA were largely unrecognized during her lifetime.

Shirley Ann Jackson: Trailblazing Physicist

and Telecommunications Visionary

Born 1946


Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, a theoretical physicist and famous inventor, first developed an interest in science and mathematics during her childhood and conducted experiments such as the eating habits of honeybees. She became the first African-American woman to earn a Ph.D. from MIT. Dr. Jackson conducted successful experiments in theoretical physics and used her knowledge of physics to foster advances in telecommunications research. She made significant contributions to telecommunications and theoretical physics that have global reach and global impact.

Girls Find Inspiration at “Engineering Your Tomorrow” Event


At the close of National Engineers Week in February, nearly 100 enthusiastic middle school girls from 30 different schools gathered at Conrad Schools of Science for a day dedicated to exploring the world of STEM. This empowering event, organized by Million Women Mentors – Delaware, showcased the dedication and talents of a diverse group of local STEM professionals who came together to inspire the next generation.

 

Encouraging words from former Delaware Governor and Million Women Mentors Honorary Co-Chair Bethany Hall-Long, and Odessa High School senior and STEM Next Flight Crew member Alyssa Bush, set the tone for an unforgettable day. The girls engaged in hands-on lab activities led by predominantly female engineers and scientists, creating an inclusive and dynamic learning environment that sparked curiosity and creativity.

Students were given an engineering challenge where they designed and built doghouses to shelter a (toy) puppy from the heat. Through this interactive experience, they learned about the concepts of light and heat ­­– exploring energy transfer, absorption, insulation, and the unique properties of different materials. They tested their doghouses under heat lamps in a friendly competition. Prizes were awarded for “Best in Show” and “Coolest Canine Castle” among others.

 

Additionally, the girls had the opportunity to extract DNA from strawberries, create colorful artwork with pipettes, build homopolar motors, and visit interactive demos by our generous sponsors. The day culminated in an exciting demonstration by the Dynamic Systems drone team. “Engineering Your Tomorrow” was not just an educational experience; it was a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and discovery, led by a supportive community to encourage young girls to pursue their passions in science, engineering and technology.

 

With Legacy Sponsorship by DuPont, along with sponsors Ashland, Incyte, Croda, FMC, Hologic, and the Delaware Afterschool Network (DEAN) and additional support, donations and volunteers from Agilent, ChristianaCare, Goldey-Beacom College, Walmart, the Delaware Foundation for Science & Math Education (DFSME), Healthy Foods for Healthy Kids, Four Youth Productions, and the University of Delaware Graduate Scientistas and Project Brain Light groups.

 

Follow MWM-DE at MWM-Delaware (@MWMentorsDE) / X and at Million Women Mentors - Delaware | Groups | LinkedIn.

Hands-on demonstrations, panel discussions and a bit of fun mixed with learning activities were part of the Dept. of Natural Resources and Environmental Control's 6th Youth Environmental Summit. The event was held at a new venue this year, Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington, to accommodate a larger number of participating students.  

 

Say YES! Youth Environmental Summit

Draws Over 900 Students

YES! is a statewide summit for all Delaware high school students with an interest in protecting our Earth. Almost 1,000 high school students spent Friday, Feb. 28 outside of the classroom to focus on pressing environmental issues.


Teachers were invited for the first time to participate in professional development workshops at the summit. DFSME lead two workshops, one focusing on finding true data sources and the other on fostering meaningful conversations about environmental topics in the classroom. These workshops were well-attended with over seventy-five participants.


DFSME once again staffed a table at a prominent section in the exhibitor’s hall with a rotation of environmental STEM professionals. Many students and teachers stopped by the table and engaged in great conversations. The table provided one-page career summaries about careers in STEM for the students and teachers to take home as well.


"It really is for the benefit of future generations," Natural Resources Secretary Greg Patterson said. About one month into his tenure, Patterson spoke on a panel and engaged with many of the participants. There is a diversity of opinion, but there's also in some ways kind of no doubt about some of the things that are happening to our planet and what we need to do to try and mitigate them."



Above photo: As a sponsor, DFSME hosted a "STEM SPOT" table with flyers highlighting STEM Careers in Environmental Science.

Erik Kraus, this month’s Shining Light Award Honoree, is pictured along with his computer science students and DFSME Executive Director, Randy Guschl.

DFSME’s March “Shining Light Award”

Honors Eric Kraus, Computer Science Educator

Eric Kraus is a 5th grade teacher at Nellie Stokes Elementary in Caesar Rodney School District, beginning to transition into the library as a STEM/STEAM educator. Eric has taken part in the University of Delaware’s CS4DE summer workshops and emerged as a leader due to his passion, hard work and dedication to bringing computer science to his classroom and to his school as a whole. He spearheads before and after school computer science clubs for all students.

 

Eric has introduced computer science and computational thinking skills through coding lessons and robotics, and has successfully fundraised enough to obtain two 3D printers used with the school’s coding club. The coding club started with only 24 students in 4th and 5th grades five years ago, and now is up to over 100 students across grades 1-5.


Under Eric’s guidance, other teachers at his school have become more involved in computer science education. Additionally, he was asked to present his CS4DE program to the wider audience of teacher attendees in the past. His program can be adapted to any school since he only uses free resources and had little background in computer science.


Eric has been awarded Nellie Hughes Stokes Teacher of the Year on two occasions, for the 2018-2019 and 2024-2025 school years. He is an outstanding educator and works tirelessly for the good of all students.


We are pleased to recognize Eric Kraus as a Superlative Educator!

Eric was nominated by Peggy Birch, Caesar Rodney High School,

Caesar Rodney School District, and University of Delaware Adjunct.


The Shining Light Award is made possible by sponsor Chesapeake Utilities.



Nominate Your Favorite Educator to be a Shining Light!


Anyone may nominate a STEM formal, informal or community Educator for the Shining Light Award.

Honorees receive an award, a $100 gift card and a mini heavy-duty mag flashlight.

For more details, got to dfsme.org/shining-light-award

Email completed form to drses48@aol.com or Michelle.Kutch@bsd.k12.de.us.

 

Submissions due by April 10

The 2025 DCTM Math Poster Contest


For the first time since 2019! This poster competition is designed to offer an avenue for mathematics students to express their creativity and to discover the usefulness and pervasiveness of mathematics. The theme of this year’s poster contest is Mathematics and Games.


Click here for more information. Click here for the submission form.

Applications due by April 11

Girls Who Code Summer Programs!

 

Who is this for? 9th-12th grade girls and non-binary students. Click here to apply.

 

Two exciting options available! Choose the adventure that fits your vibe: Click here for the Flyer.


•  Join the ultimate summer squad in the Summer Immersion Program (SIP)! Over two weeks, you’ll design and build your own computer games, make new friends, and connect with mentors. Plus, get insider college and career tips from industry pros — all in live virtual classrooms!

 

•  Learn at your own pace with Pathways! You'll explore cutting-edge tech like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science through step-by-step video tutorials and real-world projects. Connect with industry pros and join an exclusive Discord community along the way!

 

Applications due by April 11, 2025

 

Need more info? Join a webinar or email us at summer@girlswhocode.com.

Drone Safety Day Workshop


Saturday, April 26 • 9am - 4:30pm

 

Commercial Track:

• Commercial Applications panel

• Running a Drone Business panel including

marketing, lead generation, pricing, workflow

• Applying for waivers and authorizations

 

Recreational Track:

• TRUST Certification

• Getting Out To Fly

• Introduction to editing your images

• What drone should I buy

 

All:

• Responsible Drone Usage

• Flight Planning and Teamwork

• Flying your Drone in the aftermath of the

• Recent National Drone Sightings Trepidation

 

Goldey-Beacom College • 4701 Limestone Road • Wilmington, DE 19808 • Lunch Provided

Opportunities for Students, Parents & Teachers


Saturdays, March 22 – May 10 — Microelectronics Community Science Days 

July 28 - August 1 — Microelectronics Week 

 

The University of Delaware Center for Cybersecurity, Assurance & Privacy is launching a new initiative funded by the NSF CyberCorps grant to engage students, young adults, and families in microelectronics and cybersecurity through hands-on learning.

 

Starting this spring, we will host Microelectronics Week, a Security Competition for student teams, and five FREE Community Science Days on Saturdays, each exploring themes in engineering, technology, and microelectronic.

 

For questions, please send an email to cybersecurity-info@udel.edu.

 

For the informational flyer, click here.

 

Applications Are Open!

FAME, Inc. Summer Programs at UD


Students will have the opportunity to take college courses, earn college credits, and stay on the UD campus to get a feel for what the of college life is all about.


11th Graders - College of Readiness and Science Institute (CRSI) Program  • June 16 - June 27

Click here to apply. Application deadline is April 15.


12th Graders - EDGE Program • July 20 - August 9

Click here to apply. Applications are now open.


Eligible students must submit a FAME application. Space is limited.


For questions, please email belcher@fameinc.org or rjones@fameinc.org.

 

Air Mobility Command Museum

How to Celebrate

STEM Week in Delaware!


March 19-23 • 9am - 4pm


Dover Air Force Base

Free Admission & Parking

 

Where do old airplanes go? The lucky ones go to the Air Mobility Command Museum – the only museum dedicated to airlift and air refueling history!

 

Discover the WWII history and importance of the Air Mobility Command Museum. The museum houses over 30 aircraft varying in roles and sizes, and has exhibits telling the story of humanitarian and airlift and air refueling history.

 

For more information, click here. Please use the museum’s main entrance off of Rt. 9 (you cannot enter through Dover AFB).

March 14-23

National STEM Week 2025

National STEM Week 2025 is a ten-day celebration of

science, technology, engineering, and math!

Participate in a vibrant lineup of events hosted by museums, libraries,

and top STEM organizations nationwide.

From hands-on activities to interactive workshops and inspiring talks,

each free event is crafted to ignite curiosity and inspire learners of all ages.

Whether you're engaging in your local community or from home,

dive into a world of STEM discovery and innovation!

For more information and activities, click here.


 ……………………………………………………………


March 24 • 9:30am – 11:30am

Student Equity and Excellence 2035 Launch Event

By Vision Coalition of Delaware

Celebrate the launch of Delaware’s Next 10-Year Plan for Public Education.

The plan contains a set of policy recommendations across six key issue areas:

early care and education, student-centered learning, student supports,

postsecondary success, educators, and student-centered funding.

Del-One Conference Center, DelTech, 100 Campus Drive, Dover DE 19904

To learn more about Vision Coalition of Delaware, development of Student Equity

and Excellence 2035, and Coalition’s previous plans, click here.


 ……………………………………………………………


March 26

Junior Achievement (JA) Inspire Career Fair 2025 • 9am

Join the JA Inspire virtual Career Expo (now in its fourth year) and help bring

the world of work to life. You’ll be joining sixty leading companies

to share information and resources business and the exciting career opportunities!

For more information and activities, click here.


 ……………………………………………………………


March 29

Appoquinimink STEM Showcase • 10am-12pm

A showcase of STEM-oriented projects created and designed

by Appo School District students.

Students and families can also enjoy

STEM-based activities and local STEM organization.

All K-12 students and families welcome.

Odessa High School Performing Arts Center.


 ……………………………………………………………


April 10 • 9am-2pm

STEM Goes Red at UD

This inspiring event, hosted by American Heart Association,

empowers 7th-10th grade girls to explore STEM fields through hands-on

workshops led by industry leaders in health, technology, and finance.

Highlights include a panel discussion featuring women leaders

on confidence-building and dreaming big, plus potential

mentorship opportunities with participating corporations.

University of Delaware's Clayton Hall.

For the informational flyer, click here.


 ……………………………………………………………


April 11 • Final Deadline for Application

Girls Who Code • Summer Programs

Two exciting options available for 9-12 grade girls and non-binary students! 

1) Join the ultimate summer squad in the Summer Immersion Program!

During two weeks, you’ll design and build your own computer games,

make new friends, and connect with mentors. Plus, get insider college and

career tips from industry pros — all in live virtual classrooms!

 

2) Learn at your own pace with Pathways! Explore cutting-edge

tech-like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science through

step-by-step video tutorials and real-world projects.

Connect with industry pros and join an exclusive Discord community along the way!

Click here for the flyer. Click here to apply.


 ……………………………………………………………


April 12

2025 Delaware Science Olympiad Tournament - Elementary Level

Delaware Science Olympiad inspires students to achieve the next level

in their science education through exciting and challenging competitions.

For more information, location updates and registration, click here.


 ……………………………………………………………


April 26

Drone Safety Day • 9am – 4:30pm

Both commercial and recreational tracks, and for all who want to learn,

responsible drone usage, flight planning & teamwork, and more.

Goldey-Beacom College, 4701 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 • Lunch is Provided

For the flyer, click here.


 ……………………………………………………………


April 29

Navigating Delaware Pathways:

An Education and Workforce Development Summit

This full-day professional learning event brings together CTE educators,

employers and higher education leaders to explore innovative strategies

for aligning education with workforce needs.

Attendees will engage in interactive sessions, networking opportunities,

and discussions on talent acquisition, training, and retention.

Join us as we collaborate to shape Delaware’s future,

ensuring education meets the demands of tomorrow’s workforce.

Bally’s in Dover. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information, contact hrodriguez@dscc.com

 

 ……………………………………………………………


May 20

2025 Tech Ecosystem Conference

Tech Council of Delaware hosts its 3rd Annual conference,

exclusively for young adults ages 18-24 who live in Wilmington, DE

and are under/unemployed (earning less than $40k annually),

not enrolled in college, a tech training program, or in the military,

and are looking to build a better future for themselves.

This free one-day event features inspiring guest speakers, panel discussions

and tech industry conversations, informative workshops, resource booths,

networking opportunities, refreshments, and more!

To Pre-register and be on the invite list when registration opens, click here.

For more information, click here.


 
Our Sponsors & Supporters

DFSME thanks the following organizations for contributions to STEM education in Delaware.


STEM Legacy

DuPont | LabWare


STEM Heritage

Ashland


STEM Sustainer

Bloom Energy | Mountaire Farms | Verizon


STEM Network

Croda | Delmarva Power | Walmart



STEM Business

Agilent Technologies | American Chemical Society Delaware Section

Autumn Arch | Chesapeake Utilities | Incyte


STEM Gifts in Kind

ChristianaCare | Corteva Agriscience | DelawareBio

Delaware Design Company | Delaware Nature Society | Delaware Technical Community College

Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control | EDiS

Junior Achievement | STEMconnector | Stroud Water Research Center | Whisman Giordano & Associates


Community Partners

Career and Technical Education Cadre | Delaware AeroSpace Education Foundation

Delaware Afterschool Network | Delaware Department of Education | Delaware Math Coalition

Delaware Pathways | Delaware Science Coalition | Delaware STEM Council

Goldey-Beacom College | Healthy Food for Healthy Kids | Million Women Mentors

Northrop Grumman | University of Delaware



 
 


Delaware Foundation for Science and Math Education

100 W. 10th Street, Suite 612 

Wilmington, DE 19801 

Tel: 302.397.0034 | Fax: 302.397.0036 

Email: anne.dfsme@gmail.com


www.dfsme.org

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©2023 Delaware Foundation for Science and Math Education

501(c)(3) Education nonprofit dealing with K-16 STEM education in Delaware schools.