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=**The 2012 Rider STEM Academy**=



In summer 2012, Rider University hosted the third annual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Teacher Academy (from July 16th - July 27th). Through funding from //Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Foundation// and //Bristol-Myers Squibb//, the Academy engages high school students interested in teaching the STEM disciplines in exciting science and math activities that center on the teaching of ecological principles.

A key goal of the Academy is to increase awareness of the value and rewards of a teaching career in STEM areas. Rising high school juniors and seniors who have an interest in STEM, the capabilities and dispositions to be successful teachers, and an interest in working with at-risk students are encouraged to apply.

Designed and led by Dr. Peter Hester and Dr. Sven Strnad, Rider University’s STEM Teacher Academy 2012 engaged students in exciting, hands-on science activities such as //CSI Roadkill// and //CSI of a Dinosaur Dig//. Students became successful investigators, learning the field techniques, laboratory skills and Internet search strategies used to address scientific questions. Students worked in teams to design and execute their own research studies, which they presented to an audience of peers and science educators. At the Academy’s conclusion, students had acquired supervised practical experience in handling live specimens, an awareness of sources of ecological information, and a new set of science skills that are transferable to future investigations and teaching endeavors.