Science Matters (BaP) and Networking

Science Matters (BaP) In New York State

Science Matters (BaP) is an electronic network that disseminates information among teachers of science in New York State. It provides K-12 teachers with information about professional development opportunities and science teaching resources, thereby having a positive impact on the quality of science education.

Initiated by NSTA in partnership with state-based education organizations, and initially funded by Exxon Mobil Foundation, the Science Matters program is a growing national network. A cadre of educators serves as Key Leaders (KL) for each state. The Key Leaders select a Point of Contact (PoC) from each school building and coordinate the efforts of the PoCs. All of these educators are trained to use the electronic network and learn how best to share standards-based resource materials with their colleagues.

In New York State, STANYS implements the Science Matters program through Super Key Leaders, Key Leaders and PoCs organized within STANYS Sections. A steering committee oversees development of the state program. The program is growing in New York and we encourage you to participate.

Contact and general information about the STANYS Science Matters program may be found on these pages:

New York State Science Matters Map and Super key Leaders List
STANYS Science Matters Steering Committee List
A Tutorial for PoCs (pdf)

Find out more about the NSTA Science Matters program at www.nsta.org/sciencematters

Volunteer to be a Point of Contact

Is your school without a Science Matters leader? STANYS invites you to consider volunteering to serve as a Point of Contact (PoC). As each school joins the network, Science Matters become a more powerful means of communication. You and your colleagues will become less isolated and benefit from the information flowing through this conduit.

A Point of Contact may be a clasroom teacher or an adminstrator who is an advocate for science education and is willing to serve as a contact in his or her school building.

As PoC you are expected to:

Attend a standards-based training session offered by a Key Leader, or work through an online tutorial .
Receive standards based educational materials on behalf of your school and share the information with your colleagues.
Be a visible representative for science education by helping your colleagues become more aware of resources and opportunities for professional development.
Communicate results of in-service sessions and success stories.
Share emailed information that is targeted for your group.

Are you interested in being considered for the NYS PoC position in your school? If so, please complete the online application at www.nsta.org/Science Matters.

Once you have submitted your information, one of the New York State Coordinators, Doug Reynolds (dougreynolds@juno.com) or Dr. Rodney Doran (rdoran@acsu.buffalo.edu), will contact you.