Educator Open House at NC Museum of Natural Sciences, Sept. 21
For immediate release ‐ September 11, 2017
Contact: Jon Pishney, 919.707.8083. Images available upon request
(RALEIGH, N.C.) — Educators, have you ever wondered how estuaries breathe, and why fish sometimes can’t? Or wanted to learn what lives on your skin, and the cool adaptations that enable them to do so? Then you’re invited to visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences on Thursday, September 21 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., for the SciREN Triangle Networking Event and Open House. This special night showcases the wide array of Museum educational programs and opportunities as well as lesson plans from local scientists.
Attending educators, from preK to grade 12, can preview Museum exhibits and activities while working out the logistics of a school fieldtrip, talk directly with museum educators and research staff about on-site programs, and find out first-hand about distance learning, outreach and professional development opportunities.
Through a partnership with SciREN (Scientific Research and Education Network), educators can also meet more than 60 local scientists ready to distribute curriculum-centered lessons based on their research. This is an excellent way to rejuvenate teaching methods, integrate relevant and real science to student learning, and reach out into the community.
According to Megan Chesser, Museum Curator of Teacher Education and a coordinator of the event, “The main energy from the evening comes in the conversations that educators can have with the scientists while they explore the Museum. Despite the many challenges teachers face on a day-to-day basis, we hope this evening sparks a renewed sense of wonder and curiosity.” Chesser adds that it’s not just an event for science educators. “Any educator can come and make new connections to enhance their instruction or share with their students.”
There is no charge for the event, but registration (online at www.thesciren.org) is recommended.
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh (11 and 121 W. Jones St.) is an active research institution that engages visitors of every age and stage of learning in the wonders of science and the natural world. Hours: Mon.– Sat., 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sun., noon–5 p.m. General admission is free. Visit the Museum online at www.naturalsciences.org. Emlyn Koster, PhD, Museum Director.