RALEIGH \u2014 Educators, have you ever wondered how estuaries breathe, and why fish sometimes can\u2019t? Or wanted to learn what lives on your skin, and the cool adaptations that enable them to do so? Then you\u2019re invited to visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences on Thursday, September 10 from 5:30 to 8:30pm, for a special night showcasing the wide array of Museum educational programs and opportunities as well as lesson plans from local scientists.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
According to Megan Chesser, Museum Curator of Teacher Education and a coordinator for the event, \u201cThe main energy from the evening comes in the conversations that educators can have with the scientists while they explore the Museum. In spite of the many challenges teachers face on a day-to-day basis, we hope this evening sparks a renewed sense of wonder and curiosity.\u201d Chesser adds that it\u2019s not just an event for science educators, \u201cany educator can come and make new connections to enhance their instruction or share with their students.\u201d<\/p>\n
There is no charge for the event, but registration is recommended, online at thesciren.org<\/a>. Educators who register early receive additional raffle tickets for door prizes.<\/p>\n