Educators collaborated with renowned scientists in exclusive professional development program
Oak Ridge, Tenn. — Amy Arnold of Ivydale, West Virginia, was one of six high school teachers selected to attend the Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge this summer. The academy is a two-week program that provides teachers the unique professional development opportunity to be mentored by scientists from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the Oak Ridge Institute of Science and Education (ORISE) REAC/TS Cytogenetic Biodosimetry Laboratory. The program is sponsored by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and managed by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU).
Arnold, a teacher at Charleston Catholic High School, participated in inquiry-based, hands-on projects and explored real-world applications of STEM concepts. The program culminated in group presentations, where participants shared their research findings and project outcomes with peers, mentors and program leaders.
Fully funded by ARC, the Appalachian STEM Academy is complimentary for all participants and is also open to middle school and high school students, broadening its impact across the Appalachian region.
“These exceptional educators are chosen through a highly competitive application process,” said Jennifer Tyrell, associate manager at ORAU. “Many of them serve in economically distressed counties, and this academy provides a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in applied science and STEM research. By participating, they gain valuable insights and inspiration that they can bring back to their classrooms, empowering the next generation of innovators.”
This year’s program took place from July 11–24 and was hosted by ORAU in Oak Ridge, Tenn.