STEM education integrates concepts that are usually taught as separate subjects in different classes and emphasizes the application of knowledge to real-life situations. A lesson or unit in a STEM class is typically based around finding a solution to a real-world problem and tends to emphasize project-based learning. Many STEM lessons involve building models and simulating situations, and impactful STEM lessons ensure that students understand the connection to the real world.
STEM education could take place in a separate STEM class or be incorporated into practically any subject and grade level. Of course, science and math classes would be able to directly implement STEM-related lessons. In a social studies class learning about the Industrial Revolution, however, many students may design their own assembly line. OR, in an English class, students may keep a journal about their thinking and research processes while designing a realistic bridge from a fictional novel.
Careers in STEM-related fields are vast and diverse. Some examples include careers in the pharmacy, energy, programming, and engineering fields. However, STEM careers may also take the form of a physician’s assistant, network communications expert, or agricultural professional. Finance, risk analysis, and even athletic training have elements of STEM in them.
The NCESD places a strong emphasis on providing support for STEM education.
STEM Cooperative
Members of the NCESD STEM Cooperative receive multiple benefits within the areas of STEM education.
Contracts are established on a tier structure determined by district FTE.
Member districts include:
Almira
Brewster
Bridgeport
Cascade
Cashmere
Entiat
Ephrata
Grand Coulee Dam
Lake Chelan
Manson
Methow Valley
Moses Lake
Nespelem
Okanogan
Omak
Orondo
Palisades
Quincy
Soap Lake
Tonasket
Warden
Wenatchee
Wilson Creek
For more information, contact Linda McKay lindam@ncesd.org
STEM Summit
The 2020 STEM Summit is going Virtual! August 11-21, 2020
NEW!! – Visit our FAQ page for all your 2020 STEM Summit Questions
Just like last year this is a two-step process:
STEP 1: Attendees register in pdEnroller
STEP 2: Attendees register and choose your sessions in our brand-new app called SCHED.
Speakers and Highlights
The 2020 STEM Summit highlights professional learning opportunities for teachers and educational staff members in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics taught by experts and specialists in their fields.
The virtual STEM Summit will still feature over 60 breakout sessions offered morning and afternoon. New additions this year include a track focused on Early Learning and a Teacher Academy hosted by the Chelan County PUD. A total of 39 Clock hours will be offered to purchase.
The STEM Summit highlights multiple professional learning opportunities for teachers and educational staff members in the area of science, technology, engineering and mathematics taught by experts and specialists in their fields.
The STEM Summit, held in August each year, typically hosts about 450 attendees over 3 days with over 60 sessions offered. 2020 is the first year the STEM Summit has been offered entirely online.
Teachers- this event offers up to 39 STEM Clock Hours.
2020 Sponsors
Important Reminders
- Free For NCESD STEM District Cooperative Members.
- The 2020 STEM Summit is Virtual and Paperless! Download the SCHED App to create your schedule. iOS, Android
- Registration is a two step process: 1st – Register in pdEnroller. 2nd – Register in SCHED.
Are you interested in being a Sponsor? We have several opportunities for you or your business to be a part of the 2020 Summit!
Feedback from Previous Attendees
“So many good ideas! Thank you for the time to start my planning. This was exactly what I needed!”
“I loved being able to be a student during the sessions. It helped me to experience what my students will learn.”
“A wealth of information and resources for elevating our students’ learning experience.”
“Great ideas that I can use in my classroom!”
Previous STEM Summit Information
2019
Session Presentations
2018
Session Presentations
2017
Session Presentations
Session Descriptions
Apple STEM Network
The Apple STEM Network is a three-dimensional alliance of K-12, Higher Ed and community partners seeded at the confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia rivers, including the cities of Cashmere, Wenatchee and East Wenatchee in Chelan and Douglas counties. This effort is a collaboration with the NCESD and represents a diverse region with tremendous potential for STEM industry in agriculture, energies and innovation. With our collective efforts we intend to:
- Provide a constructive support system for educators who aim to meet the rising challenge for all students to develop 21st century skills and STEM literacy
- Integrate community mentorship and promote authentic project-based learning and field experiences for all levels of education
- Engage students in exploring the world of opportunities on the horizon through STEM.
To learn more about how you can participate in the Apple STEM Network, contact:
Sue Kane, Co-Director of the Apple STEM Network
Phone: (509) 888-7036
suek@ncesd.org
Mathematics
Understand the World Through Numbers
With the Shift to Common Core, mathematics has begun helping our students dive deeper into content than ever before. Please use this webpage as just one resource to help with that journey.
Mathematics Leadership Alliance:
Click on the MLA Button above for information, resources, and benefits of being part of the MLA, click the link to access the login page. This page is password protected for current MLA Members only.
Science
The Science team at North Central ESD is available to assist school districts in implementing the Next Generation Science Standards and the Common Core State Standards, selecting instructional materials, in the use of appropriate technology applications, and in providing professional development. We can provide custom designed in-services ranging from on-site for a single school, to a common location for multiple schools and levels. The North Central ESD Science team works in collaboration with the North Central ESD Math and Literacy team.
In addition, our Regional Science Coordinator who, along with the other Regional Science Coordinators, Math Coordinators and Literacy Coordinators from all ESDs, will be working together with the LASER Alliance Directors and OSPI to support the development of a statewide science network.
Our Science Department consists of the following teams:
General Science
– Mechelle LaLanne
– Andy Boyd
– Kate Lindholm
– Barb Nuxoll
Science Kit Materials
– Mechelle LaLanne
– Darlene Robbins
– Jane Schuyleman
Electrical Safety & River of Power
– Heather Stringer
– Jane Schuyleman
For more information regarding Science, please click here.
Our STEM Staff
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