Conferences and Professional Development Opportunities
Dance and drama day
A dance and drama professional development day will be held Nov. 8 as part of the Kentucky Theatre Association Conference at the University of Kentucky. Registration forms, hotel information and full conference schedule can he found here. Eight hours of professional development credit are offered. E-mail kellis@kyartsed.org for more information.
The Kentucky Arts Council will introduce artists, educators and representatives from arts organizations, non-profit community organizations, libraries, downtown development districts and local government agencies to the arts grants and programs available to increase arts participation in Kentucky. The three-hour workshops will be held on dates through Dec. 11, in Elkhorn City, Flemingsburg, Horse Cave, Owensboro, Paducah, Lexington, Covington and Louisville. All workshops are free and open to the public, however pre-registration is required.
Adventures in Economy Workshop
The Center for Economic Education at Eastern Kentucky University and the Kentucky Council on Economic Education are offering a new workshop that will introduce resources to teach students about today’s economy. Also, it will focus on investing and the stock market and provide grade-appropriate resources for the classroom. The workshop will be held on EKU’s south campus in Richmond on Nov. 22. Teachers in grades 4-12 can attend. If you teach a different grade and are interested in attending, e-mail Cynthia.Harter@eku.edu . There is a $20 refundable registration fee for those registered by Nov.14.
Applied Math workshop
The Applied Math Workshop is designed for Algebra II teachers including collaborative instructors who teach Algebra I, II. Training is designed to provide professional development in contextual teaching to math teachers and provide materials and activities for use in classrooms during the school year. For more information, contact Carole Frakes. Dates for the workshops are Nov. 14, Dec. 1, Dec. 9 and Dec. 10.
Multimedia portraits
The George Lucas Educational Foundation has received a grant from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation to produce 10 multimedia portraits of youth ages 8-18 who are deeply immersed in digital media of all kinds: blogs, social networks, virtual environments, games, media-making projects, etc. YouTube has a page with instructions for uploading and a page with directions for tagging. Find TeacherTube's help page here. After a video is uploaded to YouTube or TeacherTube, e-mail dy@edutopia.org. Submission deadline is Nov. 15.
Math Movie of the Month at UK
Fans of mathematics in the Lexington area will be interested in a documentary about the United States Math Olympiad team. This is the monthly installment of the University of Kentucky Math Movie of the Month. It will be viewed Nov. 14. "Hard Problems," a film by George Paul Csicsery, is about the extraordinary gifted students who represented the United States in 2006 at the world's toughest math competition: the International Mathematical Olympiad.
Brain Bee for high school students
The second annual Kentucky Brain Bee will be Feb. 7, 2009, in Morehead. Application deadline is Jan. 30. Any interested high school student can compete in the Brain Bee. For more information, contact Dr. Ilsun White.
i-Jam Internet Safety
i-Jam, an initiative of Kentucky Child Now in collaboration with the Kentucky Attorney General and the Kentucky Department of Education, will host the first Internet Safety Conference in Lexington on Nov. 24-25. This event is a highly interactive experience for those who work with youth. For more information, contact Doris Settles at (502) 227-7722.
Cyber bullying training sessions
The Kentucky Center for School Safety (KCSS) has developed a six-hour training session that addresses cyber bullying via two modules: “Cyber Bullying: Definition and Prevention” and “Cyber Bullying: Recommended Policies and Procedures.” The sessions will be Nov. 6 in Morehead and Nov. 14 in Prestonsburg. To register go to www.kysafeschools.org under “Events Calendar” on the home page. For more information, contact Tamara Tatum or Tammie Conatser at (800) 372-2962.
Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship Program
K-12 teachers can apply for an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship and prepare for a year of unique opportunities. Einstein Fellows spend a school year in Washington, D.C. sharing expertise with policy makers. The goal of the Einstein Fellows program is to provide an opportunity for teachers to inform national policy and improve communication between the K-12 STEM education community and national leaders. The application deadline is Jan. 13, 2009. For more information about the Einstein Fellows program, click here, or contact Liz Burck.
Research of African American students
The 2008 Conference on the Mathematics, Teaching, Learning and Research of African American Students will be Nov. 13-14 in Little Rock, Ark. There are open possibilities to attend, present, sponsor or host a booth. Slots for research and teaching presentations are open until filled, and early bird registration is available.
Teachers of dance, drama
Kentucky Alliance for Arts Education and the Kentucky Theatre Association will host their annual joint professional development day for teachers of dance and drama Nov. 8, in Lexington, at the University of Kentucky. Eight hours of professional development credit will be offered.
Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence
The 10th annual Ending Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Conference in Lexington is set for Dec. 8-11. There also will be a Green Dot Institute on Dec. 8 and a Human Trafficking Pre-Conference Dec. 9. Continuing Educational Credits will be available for professional art therapists, licensed professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, social workers, alcohol and drug counselors, nurses, attorneys and EILA (Effective Instructional Leadership Act) credit for educators.
NASA videoconferencing
NASA's Digital Learning Network presents a series of videoconferences to assist educators in staying current on NASA education resources and related products.
During the videoconferences, participants will be able to submit questions to the presenter that will be addressed during the presentation.
The following topics will be covered from 4-5 p.m. each date:
· Student Observation Network, Nov. 19
· NASA Image Archive, Dec. 17
· STS-119, Jan. 28, 2009
· Chemistry: What Is Your Cosmic Connection to the Elements?, Feb. 25
· Kepler Mission, March 25
· Meteorology: An Educators Resource Guide for Inquiry-Based Learning, April 29
· NASA Explores Virtual Worlds, May 27
For more information, go to http://dln.nasa.gov/dln/content/webcast or contact Caryn Long.
UK High School Mathematics Day
The University of Kentucky Department of Mathematics and the College of Engineering will host a morning of activities for high school students interested in mathematics Saturday, Nov. 8, on the UK campus. Individual or school participants should pre-register, and there is no registration fee, but spaces are limited. For more information, contact Russell Brown at (859) 257-3951.
ACEI annual conference
The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) invites classroom teachers, administrators, principals, school board members, teacher educators, college students, child care personnel, parents and other caregivers to attend its Annual International Conference and Exhibition, “Children at the Crossroads: Educating All to Move Forward,” March 18-21, 2009, in Chicago. Conference highlights include more than 225 workshops, research presentations and panel discussions led by renowned experts in the fields of early and middle childhood education. For more information, call (800) 423-3563 or click here.
SACS
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) is hosting the Kentucky Improvement School Conference Nov. 13-14 in Lexington. This year’s theme is “Professional Learning Communities: Fostering a Culture of Improvement.” The conference will focus on building capacity to pursue excellence through high standards, continuous improvement and quality assurance. For more information, contact Thomas E. Jones at (859) 257-4256.
Drop out prevention funding
The KDE Dropout Prevention Branch is providing funding to offer the e-Learning Kentucky online PD Course “Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence & Child Abuse: Awareness and Intervention” for a reduced fee of only $25. Registration is open for this high-quality, facilitated and interactive online PD course on a first-come, first-served basis.
UCSMP conference
The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) will host a conference for teachers and administrators who:
· teach from "UCSMP Grades 6-12" (third edition)
· are considering "UCSMP Grades 6-12" (third edition)
· use or have used earlier editions of UCSMP middle and high school materials
· use or have used UCSMP's "Everyday Mathematics"
This conference will be held on the University of Chicago campus Nov. 15-16. Participants are asked to choose several textbooks to study in-depth and can schedule a meeting with an author.
KYSPRA PD conference
The annual Kentucky School Public Relations Association fall conference is set for Nov. 20-21 in Lexington. Among the working sessions for the conference will be: public relations tips from the pros, to what degree is your PR a success and how to deal with angry people.
Check the KDE Professional Development Bulletin Board for additional opportunities.
Educators Wanted, Call for Proposals and Presenters
NCTM Executive Director search
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) is conducting a search for an executive director who is a proven visionary leader in mathematics education and who will provide strategic direction for its members, staff and mathematics education. The executive director serves as the chief staff officer and reports to the president and Board of Directors.
Davidson Institute seeks achievers
The Davidson Institute for Talent Development is seeking 2009 Davidson Fellows, an honor accompanied by a $50,000, $25,000 or $10,000 scholarship in recognition of a significant piece of work in science, technology, mathematics, music, literature, philosophy or “Outside the Box.” Applicants can’t turn 18 before Oct. 1, 2009. Application deadline is March 4, 2009.
Mathematics teachers needed for study
Kentucky mathematics teachers in grades 5-7 can earn $200 for participating in a federally funded research study for LessonLab, a Pearson Education company. Teachers will need to allow LessonLab to videotape one fraction lesson on either ratios/proportions or variables/expression/equations. For more information, contact Frank Sotelo at (310) 664-2347.
Grants, awards and contests
Joseph W. Kelly Award
The Kentucky Board of Education (KBE) is accepting nominations for its annual award, given in honor of Joseph W. Kelly, respected businessman and seven-year chairman of the KBE. The Joseph W. Kelly Award will be given to a businessperson who has offered outstanding leadership and service toward promoting school improvement and equity of educational opportunity for Kentucky’s children. The deadline for receipt of nominations is Nov. 17. Contact Susan Palmer or Mary Ann Miller to obtain a nomination form or for more information.
Slogan and essay competition
The Kentucky Education Association is sponsoring the 20th annual Slogan and Essay Contest. The slogan contest, for grades 6-8, addresses voting, voter registration and/or elections in Kentucky. The essay contest is for grades 9-12. Students must submit their essay online at www.sos.ky.gov/contests or by mail with an enclosed entry form. All entries must be submitted electronically by Dec. 5. Mail entries to: ATTN: Slogan and Essay Contest, Office of the Secretary of State, 700 Capitol Ave., Suite 152, Frankfort, KY 40601.
Grants for ‘Mary Goes To School’
In an effort to reach more children, the Mary Todd Lincoln House is taking Mary on the road through an educational program, “Mary Goes to School.” The program brings first-person interpretation directly to 4th- and 5th-graders across Kentucky. Grants are available to fund visits to any school in Kentucky. For more information visit the "Educational" section at www.mtlhouse.org/educational.html or e-mail mtlhouse@alltel.net.
NEED mini-grants
Schools, colleges and universities and non-profit organizations such as scouting organizations, 4-H clubs, municipalities and other non-profit groups or organizations can apply for the 2008 “Change a Light, Change the World – Start with ENERGY STAR” mini-grants, sponsored but the Kentucky National Energy Education Development Project. For more information, contact Karen Reagor at (859) 578-0312 or (866) 736-8941.
DNA Day Essay
The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) is sponsoring the fourth annual DNA Day Essay Contest, open to grades 9-12. Winning students will receive cash prizes and teachers of first-place winners will receive a $2,000 grant for laboratory genetics equipment. The deadline to enter is March 16, 2009. For more information, contact Angie Wong at (301) 634-7326.
Young astronomers
This fall, the National Earth Science Teachers Association (NESTA) will be collaborating with Kalmbach Publishing Company, the producers of Astronomy magazine, to sponsor the Young Astronomers Video Contest. Teams of up to four students will work together to produce a video not to exceed three minutes. The grades 6-8 division will deal with the topic “Is Pluto a planet?” High school students in grades 9-12 will describe “What is a black hole?” Videos must be produced entirely by the students and must be received at Astronomy magazine by Nov. 17.
Stock Market game
Learn how to teach mathematics, social studies and practical living content while incorporating writing, decision-making, cooperative learning and technology applications using the Stock Market Game Internet simulation. Through funding from Hilliard Lyons, the Kentucky Council on Economic Education (KCEE) is offering grants to help cover team fees if school funding is an issue. Click here to complete the application form. For more information, contact Susan Sandage.
Space-flown basil seeds available
The NASA Engineering Design Challenge: Lunar Plant Growth Chamber contest is looking for participants. Elementary, middle and high school students design, build and evaluate lunar plant growth chambers - while engaging in research - and standards-based learning experiences. Educators who complete the challenge with their students can request cinnamon basil seeds that have flown in space on the STS-118 space shuttle mission. Students can compare plants grown from both space-flown and Earth-based control seeds and test the designs of the lunar plant growth chambers.
Siemens, Discovery Education and the National Science Teachers Association will host the first of its kind national K-12 student sustainability competition this fall for students in grades 6-8. The Siemens “We Can Change the World Challenge” will provide students and teachers with the tools and resources to inspire innovative thinking about sustainability issues, and engage them in developing actionable solutions for a greener world.
Licensing to Sylvan Dell Publishing
Sylvan Dell Publishing is offering grants for a free, one-year site license, providing unlimited access to all 35 Sylvan Dell e-books. The license can be used on all school computers and may be placed on secure school Web sites, enabling students and their families to log in and access eBooks from homes. With each book comes free online educational material available for cross-curricular learning. Click here to view a list of available books.
Educational Opportunities
Education Outreach performances
The Kentucky Repertory Theatre’s Education Outreach Performances for the fall will feature the following productions in Horse Cave:
· "To Kill a Mockingbird," through Nov. 15
· "Amadeus," through Nov. 15
· "King Lear," Nov. 21–Dec. 4
For more information, contact Kentucky Repertory Theatre at (800) 342-2177.
Starlab portable planetarium
Eastern Kentucky University’s Hummel Planetarium has a new astronomy outreach program for schools, bringing a Starlab portable planetarium to schools in its 22-county service region. Part of the lessons are done outside the Starlab with students actively participating to learn the size and scale of the solar system or the motions of the earth and moon. Students can enter the Starlab planetarium and learn about stars and constellations. These lessons are currently designed for grades 3-5 with lessons set up for other grades coming at a later date.
Commonwealth Connection for 2008-09
Kentucky local, state and federal employees and retirees can take advantage of the Kentucky State Parks’ Commonwealth Connection program, which offers reduced rates on lodge rooms and cottages. Rates are good through March 31, 2009. Visit www.parks.ky.gov or call (800) 255-7275 to be transferred to the park of your choice. Be sure to mention the “Commonwealth Connection” to receive the special rate. Proof of government employment or past service may be required at check-in.
Kentucky Junior Historical Society
The Kentucky Junior Historical Society (KJHS) is an outreach program that encourages students to appreciate and understand the people, places and events that make Kentucky unique. Through research projects, historic site visits, living-history presentations and other related activities, students gain valuable skills while helping to preserve and promote Kentucky’s heritage. KJHS is designed to enhance curriculum by giving students the opportunity to connect with historical and cultural resources. For more information about KJHS, contact Laura Hiniker.
Louisville Orchestra concerts
Teachers are invited to bring students to several upcoming Louisville Orchestra concerts:
· Martin Luther King Day Concert - Jan. 18, 2009, 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.
· Lincoln Bicentennial Concert – Feb. 12-13, 2009, 10:30 and noon. The Jefferson County Public Schools All-County Symphonic Orchestra is one of several participants in the performances.
Prices for each concert range from $4-7 per student. For more information, contact Education Coordinator Matthew Baber at (502) 585-9430.
Berea Festival Dancers tour with Broadbridge
Aidan Broadbridge, featured violinist in the recent movie, Pride and Prejudice, will be accompanying the Berea Festival Dancers on a short tour Dec. 15-20. Prominently placed in the show are dances, music and costumes from Abraham Lincoln’s boyhood. The show also includes dance selections from other eras in Kentucky’s history. Audience participation can be included in the show when appropriate, and teaching workshops are available for schools wishing to expand their students’ learning experience. For more information, contact Jennifer Rose.
EKU programming schedule
Eastern Kentucky University is offering several opportunities for in-school programs relating to music, dance, visual arts, poetry and theatre. There are also professional development opportunities for teachers. For more information or to book a school or district for a performance or workshop, contact Sarah Evans at (859) 622-8488.
‘A Day on the Frontier’
Fort Boonesborough State Park will present a special school program titled “A Day on the Frontier,” a living history program for schools Nov. 5-7 and 10-14. Many activities will include hands-on participation Reservations are required. Space will be limited to 250 participants per day. For more information, contact Bill Farmer at (859) 527-3131, ext. 216.
Toyota Environmental Education Center
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) invites people to visit the Toyota Environmental Education Center Nature Trail for an outdoor environmental education experience. Be sure to check out the KERA-aligned curriculum for grades 4-12, which makes relevant connections to the environment through hands-on learning.
College tour to visit 10 schools
Thoroughbred College Tours, LLC. is offering the Spring 2009 College Tour for high school seniors, juniors and sophomores, March 29 through April 3. The college tour trip including stops in Tallahassee, Fla., Atlanta, Nashville and Frankfort. In all, 10 colleges will be visited. The cost is $600 per student, but those who pay by Nov. 30 receive a 10 percent discount. Meals, transportation, guided campus tours, sightseeing tours, and college and career workshops are included in the price. For more information, call (502) 386-6008 or e-mail thoroughbredcollegetours@yahoo.com.
Speed Art Museum
The Speed Art Museum in Louisville will present “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness: American Art from the Yale University Art Gallery,” through the rest of the calendar year. For more information, contact Kirsten Popp.
Upcoming themes related to the event include:
· Book Making, Nov. 8
· Family Portraits, Nov. 22
· Cartooning, Dec. 13
· Art in Motion Family Day, Dec. 27
Education Outreach performances
The Kentucky Repertory Theatre’s Education Outreach Performances for the fall will feature the following productions in Horse Cave:
· "To Kill a Mockingbird," through Nov. 15
· "Amadeus," through Nov. 15
· "King Lear," Nov. 21–Dec. 4