Winter 2021 Newsletter

2021: Greater Impact through Collaboration
 
With each year comes the opportunity for introspection and a sense of optimism that the next 365 days can be your best yet. While the first two quarters of this school year continued to challenge all of us, we pushed through each one committed to help build a better learning environment. The teaching profession requires perseverance, the vision of a better future, and a deep commitment to prepare students for it.
 
It’s been said before, but it bears repeating: No one achieves anything alone. In this spirit, we decided to use our newsletter to spotlight the laudable triumphs that our teachers and community members have accomplished through collaboration. Read on to be inspired for 2021!

Teaching Physical Science while Physically Distant: Newton’s Second Law of Motion

Learn how a complex physical science concept served as an opportunity for inter-school collaboration and connection with the University of Hawai‘i Applied Research Lab. Video module bundles, teacher-developed lesson resources, and case studies are forthcoming!

Tried-and-True Applications Adapted to New Teaching Conditions: 
Using Digital Media to Reinforce Science and the Engineering Design Process

A vetted engineering design challenge readapted for distance learning, with an entrepreneurial twist! Challenge your students to design a hand pollinator device for a vanilla orchid using only household items like chopsticks and junkmail, then film a ‘pitch’ for potential investors.

In the Field with Gayle Loui

Looking for practical tips to use in your online learning environment? A seventh and eighth grade Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher from Waipahu Intermediate provides exclusive insights on her approach to virtual education that is still hands-on. She discusses the legwork involved in effective STEM teaching à la distance, and tricks to make the learning curve more manageable for both teacher and student.  

2021 Virtual Junior Engineering Expo: Friday, April 9, 2021

See the attached message from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa College of Engineering regarding the 2021 Junior Engineering Expo for middle school students. The Expo will be virtual this year, so teachers and students from all islands are encouraged to participate!

As we journey on into 2021, we are excited to continue our collaboration with Hawai‘i’s teachers, University researchers, staff, and students, and our industry experts and community supporters. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss ideas, seek support, or just say hi. 
 
The STEM Pre-Academy team sends warm wishes for your health and safety. Please take care.