Professional Development Day KUDOS

Thank You Teachers, Sponsors & Business Hosts

for Making the Day A HUGE Success!

During STEM ConnectED Day on October 10th, Delaware teachers discovered how STEM comes alive in our community through exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours of local STEM businesses and organizations. They were able to meet with innovators, experience real-world STEM in action, and walk away with new connections and classroom ideas to help empower their students.

This event, presented by DFSME, coordinated 25 businesses across the state, providing opportunities for over 500 teachers during their Professional Development (PD) day, enabling them to bring back knowledge and understanding to their classrooms. Many of the businesses provided tours and described the many jobs in their organizations, including STEM and STEM-adjacent roles.

This issue recaps the energy, excitement and learnings shared by some of the educators and the businesses alike. We are delighted to share teacher reactions, reflections, and photos from the day!

We thank our sponsors, our host organizations, volunteers, and especially our teachers, for choosing STEM ConnectED Day as their development opportunity of choice.

— JB Hersch, Treasurer,

Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education (DFSME)

The Future is Bright!

Presented By

A Teacher’s Reflection on DFSME’s STEM ConnectED Day

As a teacher, I was super excited for STEM ConnectED Day on October 10th! DSFME designed this unique PD experience for educators with behind-the-scenes access to connect with business leaders in STEM.

I selected the ChristianaCare Gene Editing Institute where we visited their state-of-the-art Learning Lab, giving students access to learn about career pathways in the field from scientists and technology being used to help fight cancer!

Last spring, my students engaged in environmental advocacy and civic engagement, and launched a Plastic Free Lunch Day campaign at our school. Their efforts were recognized in Legislative Hall naming May 7th as the official Plastic Free Lunch Day in Delaware. I also selected the Center for Plastic Innovation designed for 6th-8th grade educators for an opportunity to participate in a hands-on workshop with NGSS-aligned lessons I would be able to bring back to my classrooms – to help support students with innovative approaches to continue their environmental civic engagement efforts.

This experience was awesome inspiration. I can’t wait to bring my new knowledge to our next generation of scientists and innovators, opening doors for students locally to explore STEM careers!

— Karen Eller, Middle School Science Educator, Maurice Pritchett Sr. Academy

“In seeking new ways to enrich my curriculum and inspire my students with STEM careers, I gained hands-on experience, expert insights and a glimpse into the future of science. Thank you DFSME!”

Agilent Technologies, Little Falls Site, offered teachers a tour of their state-of-the-art Center of Excellence, learning about applications of chromatography and mass spectrometry technologies in action. They discovered how Agilent’s cutting-edge analytical instruments are used across industries worldwide – from pharmaceuticals and food safety to environmental and forensic science. This PD event enabled educators to engage with scientists and engineers, exploring diverse paths in science, engineering and beyond for their students.

“This was the best professional learning opportunity that I have experienced!”

Teachers stepped inside Ashland’s state-of-the-art research and pharmaceutical labs to see how scientists use chemistry, materials science, and engineering to create real-world solutions in industries from pharmaceuticals to coatings. They met with experts, took part in hands-on demos, and discovered classroom-ready activities that make abstract STEM concepts come alive for students.

“I am so happy about today's opportunity. It was really very useful! Thank you.”

Teachers choosing the dynamic world of energy with Chesapeake Utilities Corporation as their PD of choice were welcomed into the world of natural gas and propane distribution, electricity generation, mobile compressed natural gas solutions, and emerging renewable energy across nine states. STEM educators went on a guided tour of the state-of-the-art Safety Town training facility and were informed about careers in operations, engineering, construction, renewables, and business development. An employee panel fielded questions about the STEM skills students need to succeed for the next generation of innovators.

“This was an amazing day!”

DASEF has been uniquely impacting the STEM and leadership skills of children, parents, and teachers exciting a future generation of engineers, scientists, and informed citizens for the last 36 years. Teachers visited the STARLAB Planetarium, Earth Walk and Endangered Species exhibits, and toured the Delaware Discovery Center on the 40-acre site in the middle of Delaware. The takeaways included learning about K-12 STEM program offerings and school field trips geared for each grade K-8.

“Amazing experience! Will be a lifetime memory.”

Delaware Aviation Museum Foundation has provided STEM related education sessions and services to many DELMARVA students from 6th grade through high school, including over 200 flights one-on-one with specially qualified pilots. For the past 10 years we have supported STEM related Pathways Programs in Aviation (15 different career fields) and Space Studies. This past year alone, we have spoken and encouraged over 500 students.

“Thank you so much for this valuable opportunity.

We should do this more often!”

This teacher experience was a joint session hosted by Delaware State Parks and the Marshall Steam Museum. Educators were invited look into our past and to guide our future with the educational experience at the beautiful Auburn Valley State Park. Visitors explored a Victorian mansion through the historical lens of simple machines in everyday inventions, and walk through the world’s largest collection of operating steam powered cars. The day also included a hike around an industrial ruin on scenic trails and a sampler of the programs offered at this park and at all Delaware State Parks.

“This is such a powerful way to connect real industry back to schools. I wish more people in my school could have taken this opportunity!”

Teachers joining the Delmarva Power PD opportunity were able to learn about the various STEM careers that play a role in delivering electricity and gas to our communities, and how educators can energize your classroom and curriculum. Delmarva Power provides clean, safe, affordable and reliable energy service to approximately 532,000 electric customers in Delaware and Maryland and approximately 138,000 natural gas customers in northern Delaware.

“This is the best development event I have had in my entire career. Just WOW!”

Delaware Solid Waste Authority asks, “Do you know what happens to your trash or recycling once it’s taken away?” Not many people do! Teachers took an exclusive tour through the Delaware Recycling Center’s Materials Recovery Facility where all single stream recyclables are sorted and processed. They took a drive around to the Cherry Island Landfill to learn about landfills and how they are the safest, most cost effective way to manage waste. Teachers also experienced lessons that teach Delaware students the importance of managing waste in order to protect people and the environment.

“This PD exceeded the standards of engagements we hold ourselves to as teachers when designing lessons for our students. It was meaningful and interactive! This day was my best PD ever.”

The DuPont Experimental Station is a world-renowned research and development campus where cutting-edge science and innovation come to life. For over a century, it has been the birthplace of breakthrough materials and technologies that have transformed industries and everyday life — from nylon and Kevlar to sustainable solutions shaping the future. STEM ConnectED Day brought teachers together with scientists, engineers and innovators tackling challenges in advanced materials, electronics, sustainability, and safety. Educators got a unique opportunity to see real-world applications of STEM at the highest level, and to inspire students with limitless possibilities of scientific discovery.

“Great day! I thank you for the opportunity to hear about these collaborative companies.”

The First Ascent session invited educators into their collaborative office space for a tour and behind-the-scenes look at how this business operates with deep roots in STEM, engineering, and education and marketing. First Assent’s focus is advancing STEM/STEAM education and preparing the next generation for meaningful careers in Delaware’s life sciences workforce. Leadership partners shared discussions on the development of next generation of vaccines, the Delaware health workforce and renewable electricity and advanced technology to deliver clean energy for the future.

“Thank you for this event, it was a great day. I can’t wait till next year!!!”

Did you know that “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” isn’t just a children’s story book? It’s a real phenomenon that the scientists and engineers at FMC help farmers contend with every season. This PD day started with a tour of FMC labs and greenhouses and were introduced to the different pests (bacteria, fungi, insects, weeds, nematodes) that rob crop plants of yield. They then boarded the jump farm wagon for a tour of FMC’s working research farm to learn more about the crops that farmers are trying to protect. They got a look at the latest drone technology that farmers are using to scout fields for needed crop protection products. Along the way teachers got highlights of STEM careers in the Ag industry including chemistry, environmental sciences, industrial engineering, and business to take Ag sciences back to the classroom.

“There were at least a dozen opportunities that I really wanted to experience. I think staff "field trips" to different places and labs is a very stimulating and informative way to spend staff-only professional development days!”

W. L. Gore & Associates is a materials science company focused on discovery, product innovation and rewarding careers. Gore has been using materials science and engineering to create a broad range of products that improve lives for over 65 years. Teachers toured the Capabilities Center, where they explored a variety of technical challenges from several perspectives. They experienced a chance to recreate Gore’s most powerful experiment – expanding a polymer. They heard about the importance of a diverse and collaborative workforce and the breadth of careers within a STEM-based company.

“Thanks to everyone that made this possible. Incredible partnership between industry and our schools!”

Hologic’s 3Dimensions Mammography System is the “Coolest Made Thing in Delaware.” As a global champion for women’s health, Hologic has optimized this system to provide higher-quality images, more comfortable screenings, and better detection with AI. Educators experienced the entire production process behind this cutting-edge technology that saves lives every day. The tour included manufacturing, both clean room and non-clean room, laboratories, and Hologic’s warehouse. Staff members collaborated with educators, enhancing key skills and knowledge, ensuring that students are successful when entering the workforce in engineering, technology, and manufacturing/operations.

“I hope that connections between Delaware STEM industry, academic, nonprofits, and educators keeps growing stronger.”

Teachers discovered the fascinating world of water analysis at LaMotte. The day was focused on scientific education and environmental monitoring. Educators toured LaMotte’s laboratories and production facilities, where testing kits and instruments are developed for classrooms, industries, and environmental programs worldwide. This session offered K-12 practical resources, authentic experiences, and powerful ideas for teachers to inspire the next generation of scientists.

“We were able to see how this business takes ideas from concept to prototype, to testing materials, analyzing risks, and making products that are often critical to life.”

Moonprint Solutions is a cutting-edge product development and manufacturing company serving NASA, the Department of Defense and commercial clients. Teachers were introduced to advanced softgoods – textiles, coated fabrics, and membranes – that Moonprint designs, tests, and builds flexible and inflatable products that solve complex problems in extreme environments like space, deserts, oceans, and polar regions. This behind-the-scenes experience highlighted the real-world applications of STEM skills, problem-solving, and innovation across multiple markets, from aerospace to medical and protective equipment.

“This was an awesome event. I would love it to be more than just once a year. These experiences are so valuable to educators!”

Mountaire Farms, the nation’s fourth-largest chicken producer, is a family-owned company that has been feeding communities since 1914. During STEM ConnectED Day, educators heard from experts across sales, live operations, engineering, environmental management, and early talent development. Teachers also learned about how STEM principles connect directly to real-world challenges in agriculture and food production, with practical insights to share with students as they explore future career paths. With more than 10,000 employees across five states, Mountaire offers diverse careers where science, technology, engineering, and math are applied every day.

“After participating in this session, I feel inspired to try some new things in my classes moving forward. Please continue to offer these types of experiences during future state professional development days!”

Delaware Sea Grant at the University of Delaware in Lewes welcomed teachers to the Hugh R. Sharp Campus and were introduced to the Oceanography program focused on fostering sustainable coastal economies, developing resilience to coastal hazards, and preparing the next generation of coastal leaders. Special emphasis was given to the various careers that exist on campus.

“After our session, we met as a department to share our experiences. It was a great discussion! We were really excited to learn about the many takeaways we each had and could share.”

Walmart turned out to be an experience that teachers won’t forget. Walmart hosted a behind-the-scenes look at how STEM careers power everyday operations. They were able to understand how ‘STEM is everywhere’, including inventory systems that track thousands of products, state-of-the-art energy and refrigeration management technology, and logistics that coordinate teams with one of the nation’s largest truck fleets. The tour provided a glimmer of how engineering, data analysis and supply chain management come together in a single store. Walmart is a leading STEM career employer.

Announcing Our 3 Winners of the $50 Gift Cards

DFSME thanks everyone for taking the time to fill out the STEM ConnectED Day Survey!

The data collected will help us improve the event in the future and further

our mission of supporting classroom teachers in Delaware.

Allie Colflesh • Teacher - Grades 6-8 • Talley Middle School

Tatiana Sida-Amor • Teacher - Grades 6-8 • Dover Middle School

Karen Walsh • Teacher - Grades K-5 • Brandywine Springs School

Deadline to Register & Submit is October 30

The Congressional App Challenge is Open

Calling all middle and high school teachers! If your students are into

coding, computer science, technology, and love creating their own apps,

encourage them to enter the Congressional App Challenge!

Winning teams are invited to Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. to demonstrate their