Professional development does not have to be boring or a waste of your time. If you teach middle school science, come join the fun at the New Jersey School of Conservation campus in Stokes State Forest, Sussex County, New Jersey.  Meals, onsite lodging, and all educational materials are funded by National Geographic and Montclair State University. As a participant, you will work with researchers and naturalists to complete a “Bioblitz”, identifying organisms and learning the roles that these organisms play in our local ecosystems, and the conservation concerns for NJ biodiversity. You will become familiar with the iNaturalist app to identify and explore organisms, and then collaboratively create a field guide. You will be given an opportunity to bring Bioblitz back to your own school surroundings with resources developed and shared by National Geographic. And the most exciting part of this:  an opportunity to get started on your way toward a NatGeo Educator Certification, using the Bioblitz materials for your Phase 2 Capstone Projects. You will be awarded with 45 professional development hours and 1-3 graduate credits from Montclair State University (fee applies). Applications are due by April 1and scholarship winners will be contacted by April 15, 2019. Get started on this one by clicking the link above. I’ve already applied!

Website: https://www.montclair.edu/school-of-conservation/teaching-scholar-program/

The NJSOC is roughly 75 miles (driving distance) northwest of Manhattan. Because no means of public transportation connect directly to the NJSOC, most participants will need to provide their own transportation; arranging carpools with other participants is strongly encouraged. At the NJSOC, participants will be provided with typical field station lodging and cafeteria meals.

Up to 45 professional development hours will be awarded upon completion of the program.

One to three graduate credits from Montclair State University are available (for a fee).