Rider University School of Education Teacher Academy is made possible by a grant from the Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Foundation and Bristol-Myers Squibb

Rider University’s Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) Teacher Academy

In summer 2013, Rider University is hosting the fourth annual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Teacher Academy in mid-July.  Through funding from Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Foundation and Bristol-Myers Squibb, the Academy will engage high school students interested in teaching the STEM disciplines in exciting science and math activities that center on the teaching of ecological principles.

A key goal of the Academy is to increase awareness of the value and rewards of a teaching career in STEM areas.  Rising juniors and seniors who have an interest in STEM, the capabilities and dispositions to be successful teachers, and an interest in working with at-risk students are encouraged to apply.

ACADEMY GOALS

• Students will generate novel research topics and investigate them through experiments of their own design
• Students will participate in supervised practical experiences to develop skills in insect collecting, mounting, and identification using science kits provided by Rider University
• Students will learn to construct skeletal study specimens
• Students will interact with science and math educators, learning about professional responsibilities and ethics of the teaching
• Students will learn the academic and professional requirements of becoming teachers, particularly in the STEM discipline
• Students will practice the attributes of effective teaching through presenting results of their research.
• Students will engage in a variety of educational endeavors both at Rider University and in the community
• Students will experience a variety of science and math teaching practices, methods and techniques
• Student will learn and apply effective communication techniques for teaching and presenting
• Students will investigate the college application process, from working with their high school guidance counselor to the university admissions counselor

ACADEMIC POLICIES

• Students are required to attend every class.  It is the responsibility of students (or their parents/guardians) to provide daily transportation to and from Rider University.  Carpooling is encouraged.
• Please contact Dr. Peter Hester at phester@rider.edu or Suzanne Carbonaro scarbonaro@rider.edu by 8am if you are unable to attend any part of a class session
• Students are expected to be punctual for every class and program activity
• Student attire is expected to be neat and appropriate in accordance with program activities.  Unacceptable attire includes hats, flip flops (between the toes), revealing clothing, and cut off pants of any kind
• Use of any alcohol or tobacco product is strictly prohibited
• Electronic devices such as iPods are not permitted, with the exception of cell phones. Cell phones must TURNED-OFF during all program sessions
• Appropriate language is expected at all times
• Students will maintain a science notebook throughout the program, in which they will be expected to take notes, record data and analyze results
• Students are expected to participate fully in all academy activities
• Courtesy and kindness is expected from everyone
• Students are to remain with our program at all times and are not permitted to wander the campus without the group

Failure to comply to with the Academic Policies of the program will result in expulsion from the program

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

What are the qualifications for participating students?

1. Anyone who is 15-18 years old and in his/her sophomore or junior year in high school in fall 2013 and has an interest in teaching or learning more about the teaching profession
2. An interest in and commitment to attending college after high school
3. Evidence of maturity, stability, responsibility, and commitment as demonstrated in the application and character references
4. Commitment to a two-week, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. schedule at the Rider University STEM Teacher Academy from July 15 – July 26.  Special instances of attendance may be considered.

NOTE: An accepted applicant may be asked to leave the program after initial acceptance if it is determined that he/she no longer meets the program criteria, or is out of compliance with program rules and regulations.