Professional Development
VAST Center Science Kit Workshops
The VAST Center is committed to providing support to all teachers using the science kits by offering quality introductory inservices to all teachers using the kits. These workshops are designed to provide the background needed to effectively implement these research-based elementary science kits. The workshops will focus on the key concepts in the unit as well as provide hands-on experience with all the unit activities. Practical teacher tips will be offered by experienced teacher facilitators to help with the management of hands-on materials. The introductory inservices are required for all new teachers and teachers new to the grade level prior to the implementation of each kit. Generally each kit class will be held twice, once in September and then again in January. See below for schedule. It is suggested that you register for the workshop closest to when you will teach the unit.
Teachers must register for each introductory science kit workshop needed through the Grant Wood AEA Home Page under Professional Development, Courses & Workshops, and VAST Center Academy. A $25 fee will be charged for each registration. Student teachers are encouraged to attend these workshops, but they need to register. Districts are encouraged to submit one P.O. for all participants from their district.
Ongoing inservice for the VAST project is one of the most critical components for a successful elementary science program. Therefore the VAST Center is committed to providing support to all teachers using the VAST kits by introductory inservices to all teachers. The introductory inservice and ongoing support from the kit specialist(s) and VAST Center staff will lead to successful implementation. The introductory inservices are required for all teachers prior to the implementation of each kit.
