National Congress on Science Education (NCSE)

National Congress on Science Education (NCSE) 2008 National Congress on Science Education July 16-19 2008 Indianapolis, IN March 4, 2008 Dear Chapter and Associated Groups Presidents: I would like to invite you to be an integral part of a compelling national conversation on science education. The National Congress on Science Education (NCSE) has been scheduled for July 16-19, 2008 in Indianapolis, Indiana. This engaging leadership event provides an opportunity for chapters and associated groups, the NSTA Council, the NSTA Board of Directors, and NSTA staff to collaboratively address issues and work toward strategies that will support our mission, to promote excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. Although the leaders of your association are generally asked to attend Congress, I would like to encourage you to extend the invitation to others, especially those who may be future leaders of your organization. If you have had the opportunity to be a Congress participant, you know that this experience supports the professional growth of each individual participant, as well as serving as a unique opportunity for diverse voices to be collectively heard across the science education landscape. The more voices we hear, the more informed our decisions. The Congress Planning Committee has identified strands, collected resources, and developed a schedule of events that will allow for a rewarding professional experience as well as opportunities to chart the growth of both your organization and NSTA. This year we have adopted the theme Transitions to Transformations- from Highly Qualified to Highly Effective. This theme will help us reflect on the transitions we have made over the last decade and the needed transformations that must happen in order for teachers of science to be highly effective. Our opening plenary speaker will be Gerry Wheeler, NSTA Executive Director. Our focus groups will concentrate on the 4 P s - major policies, practices, programs, and people (e.g. teachers) that have the potential to transform science education. The program this year promises to be one that will transform both you and your organization! I ve included the names of the Planning Committee members at the end of this invitation. Hotel Indianapolis Marriott Downtown 350 W. Maryland Street Indianapolis, IN 46225 877-640-7666

Social Events In addition to the nightly opportunities to visit the cafes, restaurants, and jazz clubs in the new downtown Indianapolis area, we are also planning an evening dinner and social event on Thursday night at the Indianapolis Children s Museum. This museum is one of the top children s museums in the world. This is an event you will not want to miss! Click to http://www.nsta.org/about/collaboration/chapters/congress.aspx for more information and to register online. Mark your calendars and watch for more information. We ll also be posting some ideas for NCSE (Congress) logos in Indianapolis, so you ll have a chance to provide your input! Join the conversation. We hope to see you in Indianapolis. Questions? Contact the NSTA Chapter Relations Department at chapters@nsta.org or (703) 312-9364, or (866) 737-6713. Sincerely, Page Keeley NSTA President-elect pkeeley@mmsa.org 2008 National Congress on Science Education Planning Committee Chair Page Keeley pkeeley@mmsa.org Congress Members Julie Taylor Julie_taylor@eee.org Ruth Ruud ruth.ruud@yahoo.com Gail Sinkule surfnsand2@aol.com Council Members Laura Rutledge lrutledge@frederick.edu Jim Puckett jpuckett@socket.net Mary Lightbody lightbody.1@osu.edu

Welcome to Indianapolis The nation's 12 th largest city offers big-city amenities in a convenient, easy-to-navigate package wrapped in a friendly, inviting atmosphere. Indianapolis has undergone a dramatic revitalization and a stunning renaissance that makes it a different place than it was just a decade ago. It now strikes the perfect balance of cosmopolitan style and charm, making it a successful destination for leisure travel, conventions and group tours, catering to more than 20 million visitors a year. Experience Indianapolis's deliberately designed downtown, which has produced an unmatched package of accessibility and convenience. Located within 15 minutes of Indianapolis International Airport, Indianapolis's downtown is host to more than 200 restaurants, a lively entertainment district, parks, museums, monuments, sports venues and the enchanting Canal Walk, all of which are within steps of the downtown hotel cluster. Hotel Information Indianapolis Marriott Downtown The Indianapolis Marriott Downtown is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and connected to the Indiana Convention Center & RCA Dome. You'll find Starbucks for a quick pick-me-up. For superb American fare, Marriott offers Champions Restaurant and Circle City Bar & Grille. Indianapolis Marriott Downtown 350 W. Maryland Street Indianapolis, IN 46225 Tel: 877-640-7666 Fax: 317-951-0300 $145 single or double occupancy plus 15% tax per room per night. (Taxes subject to change without advance notice.) Deadline: Friday, June 13, 2008. Mention NSTA/Summer Board Meeting to receive the meeting rate. Reservations can be made by calling 1-877-640-7666 or go online at www.indymarriott.com. If making reservation online the online code is: SCISCIA. A credit card is needed to reserve your room. Your credit card will only be charged if you fail to claim your room without notifying the hotel of your cancellation. Council and Board Members: Michelle Butler will be contacting you shortly with your specific instructions. Hotel Cancellations Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours prior to arrival without penalty. If complete cancellation of an individual reservation takes place within 24 hours of the scheduled arrival, a cancellation fee equal to one night's room revenue will be changed with the exception of a personal or medical emergency where verification can be provided. Transportation to Indianapolis

NSTA has contracted with internet-based Association Travel Concepts (ATC) for all official travel. Once you have logged on and created your personal profile, you will be able to book airline reservations 24-hours a day online at www.atcmeetings.com/nsta. Transportation to the Hotel Transportation from Airport to Hotel An average cab ride from Indianapolis Airport to the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown Hotel will cost approximately $25-$30. Social Events Thursday evening Indianapolis Children s Museum, $55 per person, Thursday, July 17, 2008 6:30 10:00 pm. The Children s Museum of Indianapolis, a nonprofit institution committed to enriching the lives of children, is the largest children s museum in the world. The more than 400,000- square-foot facility houses 11 major galleries that explore the physical and natural sciences, history, world cultures and the arts. Our evening at the Children s Museum visit is the main social event for this year s Congress. Attendees will have a delicious dinner, and get special VIP treatment while visiting the exhibits. Friday evening On your own but, check out the hotel's website to see more details of "What to do in Indianapolis" http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/indcc-indianapolis-marriott-downtown/

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16 TH Board/Council Retreat 7:30 AM Breakfast - 2008 National Congress on Science Education (NCSE) Transition to Transformation: Highly Qualified to Highly Effective July 16 July 19, 2008 Indianapolis, Indiana AGENDA 8:30 AM Board and Council Retreat 4:30 5:45 PM Focus Group Co-Facilitator Meeting. 3:00 7:00 PM Registration & HASTI Welcome... 4:30 6:00 PM Alliance of Affiliates Meeting... 6:00 7:30 PM Welcome/Orientation... Welcome to Congress & Indianapolis Page Keeley, NSTA President Introductions and Recognition of honored guests Congress Overview Plenary Session Page Keeley, NSTA President Science Education The Times They Are A Changin Speaker - Gerry Wheeler, NSTA Executive Director Science Education- A Half-Century in Retrospect Introducing Dr. Francis Eberle, the new NSTA Executive Director Thank you CIM Audio Visual for graciously supplying the Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD) projectors for this meeting. 7:30 8:00 PM Wine & Cheese Reception Hosted by the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers (HASTI). Dinner on your own Are you eating alone? You may wish to meet other Congress Attendees in the lobby to form optional dinner groups. THURSDAY, JULY 17 TH 7:00 AM 5:00 PM Registration... 7:15 8:00 AM Breakfast - Seating by Districts... Drawing for Focus Group Scavenger Hunt Contest Winners 6/13/08 3:23 PM 1

8:00 8:15 AM Introductions... District Director Roll Call of Delegates 8:15 8:30 AM Credentials Committee Meeting Chair: Page Keeley, NSTA President; Members: Mary Lightbody, District X Director, Jim Puckett - District XI Director, Laura Rutledge - District III Director Ken Rosenbaum Chapter Relations Consultant 8:30 9:15 AM CONGRESS GENERAL SESSION I... 1) Approval of 2007 Congress Minutes (Already approved by 2007 Members of the Planning Committee: Heidi Kellar, Jim Redmond, Adrienne Elder) 2) Orientation and Motion Matrix President Page Keeley and NSTA Executive Director 3) Report of Credentials Committee Page Keeley, NSTA President 4) Adoption of Operating Policies 5) Adoption of Agenda 6) Acknowledgment of Resolutions from Chapters and Associated Groups 7) Requests for Additional Focus Groups 8) Announcements 9:30 10:30 AM MEETINGS OF FOCUS GROUPS (choose one) Focus Group #1 Elementary Science in the K-12 System NCLB has brought about a transition in elementary classrooms where the focus on reading and mathematics has significantly short-changed students opportunities to learn science. This transition has also affected opportunities for professional development in science for elementary teachers. A major transformation in understanding the critical role of elementary science in the K-12 continuum of learning and making science a core subject in all grades is needed. This transformation needs support from all levels of the system, including the advocacy of middle and high school teachers who are beginning to feel the effect of a short-changed K-12 science program. The focus of this session will be to explore ways for all science educators to be involved in and support the need for elementary science education in our schools, including highly effective elementary science teachers. Leader- Julie Taylor Congress member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee Facilitator Kathy Renfrew NSTA District II Director Guiding Questions and Issues to Consider 1. What transitions, both positive and negative, have we seen in elementary science since the passage of NCLB? 2. Why is elementary science critical to the development of a science literate nation? 6/13/08 3:23 PM 2

3. What are some ways K-12 educators in state chapters, affiliated groups, and NSTA can become better advocates for elementary science in the K-12 curriculum? 4. What transformation needs to happen in order for elementary science to be a core subject area in the K-12 curriculum? Resources 1. Science Education's 'Overlooked Ingredient' by Harold Pratt http://science.nsta.org/nstaexpress/nstaexpress_2007_10_29_pratt.htm 2. Science Instruction: An Endangered Species http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa4009/is_200801/ai_n21186226/ print 3. NSTA Position Statement on Elementary School Science http://www.nsta.org/about/positions/elementary.aspx Focus Group #2 21 st Century Skills Every aspect of our lives, including education, has been affected by the digital age. With this transition has come the need to focus on new skills our students will need to function successfully in the 21 st Century. The focus of this session will be to explore ways to incorporate 21 st Century Skills in the science classroom, including transforming from generic skills to science specific skills in appropriate science contexts. The session will explore what needs to happen to make this transformation content-specific in the science classroom. Leader Ruth Ruud - Congress member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee Facilitator Susan Van Gundy NSTA District XIV Director Guiding Questions and Issues to Consider 1. What skills does the 21st Century Learner need to become a science literate citizen? 2. What needs to be done in order to transition science classrooms into 21st Century environments for learning? 3. What pivotal role should technology play in 21st century science education? 4. What transformation in science teaching and learning can occur with successful implementation of 21st Century skills into the science curriculum? Resources 1. Partnership for 21st Century Skills Web Site. A variety of articles, resources, and information on 21st Century Skills can be read or downloaded from this comprehensive site. http://www.21stcenturyskills.org/ Focus Group #3 Teaching Science to Students of Poverty 6/13/08 3:23 PM 3

Poverty is a national issue that knows no boundaries when it comes to race, culture, ethnicity, and geography. Poverty affects student learning in urban, suburban, and rural schools. Students opportunities to learn and succeed in science are affected when they grow up in poverty. Students of poverty have fewer opportunities to experience science outside of school, access to fewer resources, lower aspirations, and immediate needs for day to day survival that often trump academic responsibilities. The focus of this session will be to explore the issues of poverty that affect science learning, ways science education can help students break through the poverty barrier, and how teachers and informal educators can be more effective in teaching students of poverty Leader Gail Sinkule - Congress member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee Facilitator Cherry Brewton Former AMSE President Guiding Questions and Issues to Consider 1. How can the actions of science educators improve opportunities for children of poverty to learn? 2. What factors do we need to be aware of that contribute to difficulties in learning science for children living in poverty? 3. How can opportunities to learn science help students break out of the cycle of poverty? 4. What can science educators, including state chapters, affiliates, and NSTA do to help transform the lives of children living in poverty? Resources 1. The Impact of Poverty Upon Schools" http://www.wcpss.net/evaluationresearch/reports/1999/9920_poverty.pdf 2. "Poverty and Education - Overview, Children, and Adolescents" http://education.stateuniversity.com/pages/2330/poverty-education.html 3. "The Effects of Poverty on Teaching and Learning" http://www.teachnology.com/tutorials/teaching/poverty/6/ 4. Connecting Components of Scientific Inquiry and Instructional Strategies for Teaching Students in Urban Classrooms http://novationsjournal.org/content/original_story.pl?story=14 6/13/08 3:23 PM 4

Focus Group #4 Transforming Science Teacher Practice Through Professional Learning Communities Schools across the country are transitioning to forms of site-based, teacher-led professional development. One of the increasingly common forms of this type of embedded professional development is the professional learning community (PLC). PLC s are becoming more common in schools as well as in non-school settings (e.g. online). However, merely transitioning to this type of professional development does not ensure deep learning takes place. A transformation in the type of learning that happens in professional learning communities is needed. The focus of this session is on how to transform professional learning communities with the resources, science expertise, and structures needed so that PLC s can support highly effective teaching. Leader Linda Atkinson, NSELA President Facilitator Laura Rutledge Council member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee Guiding Questions and Issues to Consider 1. What does it take to make the transition toward more embedded forms of professional development in science such as Science Professional Learning Communities (PLC s)? 2. What are the current impediments to the successful implementation of Science Professional Learning Communities? 3. What attitude and/or policy changes are needed at the school, district, state, and national levels to successfully support transformative professional development through Science Professional Learning Communities? 4. How can the Chapters and Associated Groups, Alliance of Affiliates, and NSTA promote Science Professional Learning Communities that are consistent with the NSTA Position Statement on Professional Development? Resources 1. What Is a Professional Learning Community? http://pdonline.ascd.org/pd_online/secondary_reading/el200405_dufour.html 2. Professional Learning Communities: Professional Development Strategies That Improve Instruction http://www.annenberginstitute.org/pdf/proflearning.pdf 3. Sustaining School Improvement: Professional Learning Community http://www.mcrel.org/pdf/leadershiporganizationdevelopment/5031tg_pr oflrncommfoliopdf 4. NSTA Position Statement on Professional Development: http://www.nsta.org/about/positions/profdev.aspx 6/13/08 3:23 PM 5

Focus Group #5 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)- Critical to America s Prosperity In the past few years we have transitioned from a focus solely on science or mathematics to a focus on STEM. STEM issues, including K-12 education, higher education, the work force, and America s competitiveness in a global economy are at the forefront of public policy, media attention, and science educators concerns. Increasing attention is focused on preparing our science students to enter America s pipeline for careers in science, engineering, and technology. With so much attention focused on STEM careers, we can t lose sight of the importance of basic STEM literacy- ensuring that every student, regardless of whether they go on to study science after high school or enter STEM careers, can function in society as a STEM literate adult. The focus of this session is to explore current STEM issues, including the balance between preparing our students for STEM careers and ensuring that our students who do not go on to STEM careers are STEM literate. Leader Linda Lacy, Science Teachers of Missouri Facilitator Jim Puckett Council member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee Guiding Questions and Issues to Consider 1. What obstacles currently impede the successful implementation of K-12+ STEM literacy programs? 2. What attitude and/or policy changes are needed at the district, state, and national levels to successfully transition from K-12+ science or mathematics literacy to STEM literacy? 3. What actions need to be taken by the various stakeholders (students, parents, teachers, school districts, business leaders, as well as the state and federal governments) to promote quality STEM literacy programs that include the "T" and "E" in K-12 science? 4. How can the Chapters and Associated Groups, Alliance of Affiliates, and/or National Science Teachers Association work to transform K-12+ STEM education? Resources 1. 0702INNOVATIONSTEM.pdf(833KB) www.nga.org/files/pdf/0702innovationstem.pdf 2. Attributes_of_STEM_Education.pdf(121KB) www.tiesteach.org/documents/attributes_of_stem_education.pdf 3. CRS RL33434.pdf(463KB) fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/rl33434.pdf 4. Where's the T and E in STEM Education? http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2008/03/27/30stemtech.h27.html 6/13/08 3:23 PM 6

Focus Group #6 Bridging the Gap from Research to Practice and from Practice to Research Since the release and implementation of national and state standards over a decade ago, the research base in science teaching, student learning, and professional development has expanded significantly. This research has the potential to transform teaching and learning when it becomes accessible to and used by practitioners. Likewise, practitioners should also inform the research agenda. The focus of this session is to explore the gap between research and practice in science education and consider how researchers and practitioners can inform each other. Leader Rick Duschl - NARST Facilitator Christine Royce NSTA District IV Director Guiding Questions and Issues to Consider 1. To what degree does (and should) research inform practice in science education in the United States? 2. How can the researchers and the practitioners make stronger connections with each other? 3. How can the science education community (including NSTA) help develop a structure for research, development, and implementation in science education that will explicitly address problems of educational practice in schools while advancing fundamental understanding of children s learning in science? Resources 1. Van Zee, E. & Roberts, D. (2008). Excerpts from: Engaging teachers in research on science learning and teaching. http://www.nsta.org/congressfg6/teacher_research.pdf 2. Sabelli, N. and Dede, C. (1998). Integrating educational research and practice: Reconceptualizing the goals and process of research to improve educational practice. http://www.virtual.gmu.edu/ss_research/cdpapers/integrating.htm 3. National Research Council. (2007). Taking science to school:learning and teaching science in grades K-8. Washington, D.C.: National Academies Press. Executive Summary 1-8 and Agenda for Research and Development 350-355 Executive Summary available online at http://www.nap.edu/nap-cgi/execsumm.cgi?record_id=11625 10:30 10:45 AM BREAK... 10:45 11:45 AM MEETING OF FOCUS GROUPS (continue) 11:45 AM -1:15 PM LUNCH (on your own) 6/13/08 3:23 PM 7

Alliance of Affiliates working lunch... John Whitsett, NSTA Retiring President 1:15 2:45 PM MEETING OF FOCUS GROUPS (continued) 2:45 3:45 PM Poer Point Presentations Focus Group Sharing... (Snacks provided) 3:45 4:30 PM Focus groups write report summaries and prepare... any resolutions for submission to the Congress. If any Resolutions are written, they must be turned into Michelle Butler electronically (jump drive or other portable media) by 4:30 PM. 3:45 5:15 PM Alliance of Affiliates Meeting... John Whitsett, NSTA Retiring President, Presiding (NSTA Board/Council Directors may attend) 5:30 PM Gather in lobby for boarding buses 5:50 PM Bus departs for Indianapolis Children s Museum (Ticketed event, $55 includes transportation & dinner - casual attire) 9:15-9:30 PM Buses return to hotel FRIDAY, JULY 18 TH 7:30AM 5:00 PM Registration... 7:30 8:30 AM Breakfast (Seating by District)... Resolutions distributed Resolutions discussed within Districts 8:30 11:30 AM CONGRESS GENERAL SESSION II... 1) Remarks from Page Keeley 2) Vote on resolutions 3) Election of 2009 Congress Planning Committee 4) Announcement of NCSE Site for 2009 Pat Shane. NSTA President Elect 11:30 AM 5:00 PM Open NSTA Council Meeting... 11:30 AM 1:30 PM (Lunch on your own) 1:30 2:30 PM CONGRESS WORKSHOP SESSION I (choose one) A) Fund Raising for Your Chapter Get tips and a back-to-basics lesson on the role of non-profit boards in fundraising. 6/13/08 3:23 PM 8

Larry Rzepka Assistant Executive Director, Development and Corporate Relations B) Getting Published in NSTA Books and Journals... Books, journals, online: The content our readers are looking for (this year anyway) and the most efficient ways to submit your work. David Beacom NSTA Associate Executive Director and Publisher C) Parliamentary Procedure 101... Learn how to run an efficient and productive board meeting. You will actively participate in a model board meeting. (This session is repeated in Workshop Session III) Ed Frazier Executive Director HASTI D) Chapter Budgeting and Financial Advice... What are the fiduciary responsibilities of your board and the impact of the financial management of your association? Get some tips about Chapter budgeting and financial advice for those responsible for your organization s finances. Randy Johnson NSTA Treasurer E) Round Table Discussion... Come share your views, your success stories, and needs with fellow Congress attendees on the topic of: Involving Parents In Science Education Moderator Leader Gail Sinkule - Congress member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee F) Open Council Meeting... 2:30 3:00 PM BREAK (with networking opportunity and snack) 3:00 4:00 PM CONGRESS WORKSHOP SESSION II (choose one) A) Marketing Your Chapter for Success Learn how to market your association in discussions of marketing activities and how to manage mailings and mailing lists. Ed Rock NSTA Associate Executive Director, Marketing B) Using NSTA Electronic Resources to Increase Science Content Knowledge Raise your awareness as you learn about the NSTA Electronic professional development portal: The NSTA Learning Center, its tools 6/13/08 3:23 PM 9

and its resources. This is information you will want to take home to your Chapter s Professional Development Committee. Al Byers NSTA (C) Enhancing Membership in Science Professional Organizations Learn strategies to recruit and retain members and how to keep your association front-of-mind for your members using social networking tools, and other engagement tactics. Howard Wahlberg NSTA Assistant Executive Director, Membership D) Strategic Planning Getting Started... Feel that you are struggling to survive from one conference to another? Learn how a strategic plan can allow your Chapter to move forward and plan for the future beyond the next annual conference. Ken Rosenbaum NSTA Chapter Relations Consultant E) Round Table Discussion... Come share your views, your success stories, and needs with fellow Congress attendees on the topic of: : Resources For Hot Button Issues Topics may include Nutrition and Obesity; Health; Evolution; Global Warming; etc. Moderator Ruth Ruud, Congress member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee F) Open Council Meeting... 3:00 5:00 PM Open Council Meeting (continued)... 5:00-6:00 PM The Great Gift Give Away Come to this Pre-dinner networking opportunity and perhaps your number will be drawn and you will receive a great gift! Chapters in attendance will bring and present their special gifts from their state at this exciting social event. Bring an item or items from your chapters or groups, a product from your state, or other unique gifts associated with your role. All attendees are welcome to share in the fun whether you bring a gift or not! SATURDAY, JULY 19 ST Dinner on your own 7:00AM 3:00 PM Registration... 7:30 8:30 AM Breakfast... 8:00 8:30 AM Report of the President Challenges, Goals, and Plans... Page Keeley, NSTA President, 6/13/08 3:23 PM 10

8:45 9:45 AM CONGRESS WORKSHOP SESSION III (choose one) A) Financial Responsibilities of Nonprofit Associations... Learn the ins and outs of budgeting, 501 C3 tax status, financial reports, and fiscal planning. Moira Fathy-Baker NSTA CFO and COO B) Parliamentary Procedure 101... Learn how to run an efficient and productive board meeting. You will actively participate in a model board meeting. (This session is a repeat of a session in Workshop Session I) Ed Frazier NSTA Parliamentarian C) Fund Raising for Your Chapter... Get tips and a back-to-basics lesson on the role of non-profit boards in fundraising. Larry Rzepka Assistant NSTA Executive Director,Development and Corporate Relations D) Round Table Discussion... Come share your views, your success stories, and needs with fellow congress attendees on the topic of: English Language Learners Moderator Julie Taylor - Congress member of NCSE 08 Planning Committee E) Open Board Meeting... 10:00 1l:00 AM CONGRESS WORKSHOP SESSION IV (choose one). A) Using Marketing Focus Groups to Inform... Your Chapter Learn how local leaders can use marketing focus groups to get your members involved and identify science education and organizational issues. Tyson Brown NSTA NSTA Director of SciLinks David Beacom NSTA Associate Executive Director and Publisher B) State Chapter Conferences Tips for Success Meet chapter leaders who have had successful conferences and get tips and strategies that you may wish to use to make your Chapter conference a greater success Gail Sinkule Past President Georgia Science Teachers Association Mike Mansour Past President Metropolitan Detroit Science Teachers Association 6/13/08 3:23 PM 11

C) Math Science Partnerships Learn more about the state Math-Science Partnership grants and how you can get involved. Are you part of a state MSP? Learn how NSTA resources can support MSP professional development. Kelly Price, District V Director and MSP Project Director D) Round Table Discussion... Come share your views, your success stories, resources, and needs with fellow Congress attendees on formative assessment. This session will explore the need to move beyond a focus on testing and include formative assessment as part of a balanced assessment system that includes professional development in formative assessment. Balancing Summative Assessment with Formative Assessment Leader Charlotte Bihm - Louisiana Science Teachers Association President D) Board Meeting... 11:15 AM 12:30 PM CLOSING SESSION AND LUNCHEON... (Lunch provided) Election results for NCSE 09 Planning Committee Report on Resolutions sent to Council and Board Collection of Evaluation Forms Afternoon/Evening On Your Own 12:45 2:15 PM 2008 & 2009 Planning Committee Members... After Action Review (Facilitator Ken Rosenbaum) 12:45 5:00 PM Board Meeting... SUNDAY, JULY 20 ND 7:00 AM 1:00 PM Board Meeting (closed session) 6/13/08 3:23 PM 12

2008 National Congress on Science Education July 16 20, 2008; Indianapolis, IN Registration Form This form must be received at NSTA Headquarters on or before June 20, 2008. This form is to be completed by each person who will be attending the National Congress on Science Education (Delegates, Alternate Delegates, Council and Board Members, and other registrants attending the meeting). Download this form from http://www.nsta.org/about/collaboration/chapters/congress.aspx or for Online Registration go to https://ecommerce.nsta.org/congr2008/ Mail: NSTA Chapter Relations c/o NCSE, 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000 Fax: (703) 841-8329 Name Title (your title from the NSTA Chapter or Associated Group) Chapter or Associated Group Name Summer Mailing Address City State Zip Country Phone E-mail A) Registration Fee: $55 per person (Fee includes one evening reception, three continental breakfasts, and one working lunch, which are intended for participants only) (B) Dinner and Social Event (optional): Indianapolis Children s Museum, $55 per person, Thursday, July 17, 2008 6:30 10:00 pm. The Children s Museum of Indianapolis, a nonprofit institution committed to enriching the lives of children, is the largest children s museum in the world. The more than 400,000-square-foot facility houses 11 major galleries that explore the physical and natural sciences, history, world cultures and the arts. Attendees will have a delicious dinner, and get special VIP treatment while visiting the exhibits. Ticket fee includes bus transportation as well. # Tickets x $55 each = $ C) Lunch (included in Registration fee): Saturday, July 19: Yes, I will attend. No, I will not attend. D) Payment Registration Fee: Children s Museum Ticket(s) Total Fees: $ 55 $ $ I am paying by: Check # (payable to NSTA in U.S. Funds) Credit Card: VISA MasterCard Discover AMEX # Expiration Date Signature

National Congress on Science Education Credentialing Form This form must be received at NSTA Headquarters on or before May 16, 2008. 1. Download this form at http://www.nsta.org/about/collaboration/chapters/epacket.aspx 2. Mail: Attn. Chapter Relations, 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000 3. Fax: (703) 841-8329 Chapter or Associated Group Officer Name Office Held Address City State Zip Country Phone Fax E-mail Check here if you are the DELEGATE for your Chapter or Associated Group. If you are not the DELEGATE, please provide information on your appointed Delegate: The DELEGATE for our Chapter/Associated Group to the Congress is: Name Office Held Address City State Zip Country Phone Fax E-mail Check here if your Chapter or Associated Group does not plan to have an Alternate Delegate The ALTERNATE for our Chapter/Associated Group to the Congress is: Name Office Held Address City State Zip Country Phone Fax E-mail

National Congress on Science Education (NCSE) Chapter or Associated Group Resolution Request Form Resolutions from Chapters and Associated Groups must be submitted by May 16, 2008, to the Chair of the Congress Planning Committee, Page Keeley. 1. Download this form from http://www.nsta.org/about/collaboration/chapters/epacket.aspx 2. Mail: Attn. Theresa Nicely, 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000 3. FAX: (703) 841-8329 Chapter or Associated Group President Address City State Zip Country Phone FAX E-mail President s Signature This signature indicates that the resolution has been approved by the Board of Directors of the submitting Chapter or Associated Group, as per NSCE operating policy. Resolutions are to be in the following form: 1. A background statement, as brief as possible, setting forth the reasons for the resolution. 2. The resolution clause stating a single proposition only. If more than one proposition is offered, each should be stated in separate resolutions. The resolved clause should begin Resolved that, 3. Resolution should address one of the following audiences (check one only): A message or position statements from the National Congress on Science Education. Resolutions accepted for study or open-ended resolutions requesting thoughtful input from or action by Chapters and Associated Groups. Resolutions that request consideration and/or action by the NSTA Council and Board. Resolution: (attach additional pages as needed)

NCSE Travel Reimbursement Instructions The National Congress on Science Education (NCSE) shall be comprised of one voting delegate from each Chapter and Associated Group. NSTA will provide partial financial support to the official Chapter or Associated Group delegate to the NCSE at a rate to be determined annually by the Board. The current approved rate is US $200 per Chapter or Associated Group. Approved NCSE delegates must submit a W-9 form and the completed form below in order for payment to be made to the Chapter or Associated Group. Since there is to be one and only one voting delegate per Chapter or Associated Group, only one set of forms (the W-9 and the form below) will be accepted per Chapter or Associated Group. Incomplete material submission will result in a forfeiture of this stipend. Funds will be distributed and be made payable to the Chapter or Associated Group, not to the individual delegate. It is assumed that the Chapter or Associated Group is providing funds to the delegate for travel, and this stipend is intended to partially reimburse the Chapter or Associated Group for this expense. Please complete the form below, and submit it, along with the W-9, to: NSTA Chapter Relations 1840 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22201 Facsimiles or electronic copies will not be accepted. Chapter/Associated Group Name Chapter/Associated Group Street Address Chapter/Associated Group City, State, Zip ( ) ( )

Chapter/Associated Group Phone Chapter/Associated Group Fax Chapter/Associated Group Officer Name, Title (to whom the stipend will be sent) @ Chapter/Associated Group Officer email address ( ) Chapter/Associated Group Officer Phone (if different from above) ( ) Chapter/Associated Group Officer Fax (if different from above) The Chapter/Associated Group Officer named above hereby certifies that the National Congress on Science Education Delegate named below is authorized by the Chapter/Associated Group to submit, on behalf of the Chapter/Associated Group, this stipend request form in the amount of US $200. Chapter/Associated Group Officer Signature

National Congress on Science Education (NCSE) Delegate Name (NCSE) Delegate Street Address (NCSE) Delegate City, State, Zip ( ) ( ) (NCSE) Delegate Phone (NCSE) Delegate Fax @ (NCSE) Delegate email address The National Congress on Science Education (NCSE) Delegate named above hereby certifies that he/she has been duly and properly elected or appointed as the official delegate to NCSE by the Chapter/Associated Group named on this form. (NCSE) Delegate Signature

Form W-9 Request for Taxpayer (Rev. January 2003) Identification Number and Certification Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service Print or type See Specific Instructions on page 2. Name Business name, if different from above Check appropriate box: Address (number, street, and apt. or suite no.) City, state, and ZIP code List account number(s) here (optional) Give form to the requester. Do not send to the IRS. Individual/ Exempt from backup Sole proprietor Corporation Partnership Other withholding Requester s name and address (optional) Part I Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) Enter your TIN in the appropriate box. For individuals, this is your social security number (SSN). However, for a resident alien, sole proprietor, or disregarded entity, see the Part I instructions on page 3. For other entities, it is your employer identification number (EIN). If you do not have a number, see How to get a TIN on page 3. Note: If the account is in more than one name, see the chart on page 4 for guidelines on whose number to enter. Part II Certification Social security number or Employer identification number Under penalties of perjury, I certify that: 1. The number shown on this form is my correct taxpayer identification number (or I am waiting for a number to be issued to me), and 2. I am not subject to backup withholding because: (a) I am exempt from backup withholding, or (b) I have not been notified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that I am subject to backup withholding as a result of a failure to report all interest or dividends, or (c) the IRS has notified me that I am no longer subject to backup withholding, and 3. I am a U.S. person (including a U.S. resident alien). Certification instructions. You must cross out item 2 above if you have been notified by the IRS that you are currently subject to backup withholding because you have failed to report all interest and dividends on your tax return. For real estate transactions, item 2 does not apply. For mortgage interest paid, acquisition or abandonment of secured property, cancellation of debt, contributions to an individual retirement arrangement (IRA), and generally, payments other than interest and dividends, you are not required to sign the Certification, but you must provide your correct TIN. (See the instructions on page 4.) Sign Here Signature of U.S. person Purpose of Form A person who is required to file an information return with the IRS, must obtain your correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) to report, for example, income paid to you, real estate transactions, mortgage interest you paid, acquisition or abandonment of secured property, cancellation of debt, or contributions you made to an IRA. U.S. person. Use Form W-9 only if you are a U.S. person (including a resident alien), to provide your correct TIN to the person requesting it (the requester) and, when applicable, to: 1. Certify that the TIN you are giving is correct (or you are waiting for a number to be issued), 2. Certify that you are not subject to backup withholding, or 3. Claim exemption from backup withholding if you are a U.S. exempt payee. Note: If a requester gives you a form other than Form W-9 to request your TIN, you must use the requester s form if it is substantially similar to this Form W-9. Foreign person. If you are a foreign person, use the appropriate Form W-8 (see Pub. 515, Withholding of Tax on Nonresident Aliens and Foreign Entities). Date Nonresident alien who becomes a resident alien. Generally, only a nonresident alien individual may use the terms of a tax treaty to reduce or eliminate U.S. tax on certain types of income. However, most tax treaties contain a provision known as a saving clause. Exceptions specified in the saving clause may permit an exemption from tax to continue for certain types of income even after the recipient has otherwise become a U.S. resident alien for tax purposes. If you are a U.S. resident alien who is relying on an exception contained in the saving clause of a tax treaty to claim an exemption from U.S. tax on certain types of income, you must attach a statement that specifies the following five items: 1. The treaty country. Generally, this must be the same treaty under which you claimed exemption from tax as a nonresident alien. 2. The treaty article addressing the income. 3. The article number (or location) in the tax treaty that contains the saving clause and its exceptions. 4. The type and amount of income that qualifies for the exemption from tax. 5. Sufficient facts to justify the exemption from tax under the terms of the treaty article. Cat. No. 10231X Form W-9 (Rev. 1-2003)

Form W-9 (Rev. 1-2003) Page 2 Example. Article 20 of the U.S.-China income tax treaty allows an exemption from tax for scholarship income received by a Chinese student temporarily present in the United States. Under U.S. law, this student will become a resident alien for tax purposes if his or her stay in the United States exceeds 5 calendar years. However, paragraph 2 of the first Protocol to the U.S.-China treaty (dated April 30, 1984) allows the provisions of Article 20 to continue to apply even after the Chinese student becomes a resident alien of the United States. A Chinese student who qualifies for this exception (under paragraph 2 of the first protocol) and is relying on this exception to claim an exemption from tax on his or her scholarship or fellowship income would attach to Form W-9 a statement that includes the information described above to support that exemption. If you are a nonresident alien or a foreign entity not subject to backup withholding, give the requester the appropriate completed Form W-8. What is backup withholding? Persons making certain payments to you must under certain conditions withhold and pay to the IRS 30% of such payments (29% after December 31, 2003; 28% after December 31, 2005). This is called backup withholding. Payments that may be subject to backup withholding include interest, dividends, broker and barter exchange transactions, rents, royalties, nonemployee pay, and certain payments from fishing boat operators. Real estate transactions are not subject to backup withholding. You will not be subject to backup withholding on payments you receive if you give the requester your correct TIN, make the proper certifications, and report all your taxable interest and dividends on your tax return. Payments you receive will be subject to backup withholding if: 1. You do not furnish your TIN to the requester, or 2. You do not certify your TIN when required (see the Part II instructions on page 4 for details), or 3. The IRS tells the requester that you furnished an incorrect TIN, or 4. The IRS tells you that you are subject to backup withholding because you did not report all your interest and dividends on your tax return (for reportable interest and dividends only), or 5. You do not certify to the requester that you are not subject to backup withholding under 4 above (for reportable interest and dividend accounts opened after 1983 only). Certain payees and payments are exempt from backup withholding. See the instructions below and the separate Instructions for the Requester of Form W-9. Penalties Failure to furnish TIN. If you fail to furnish your correct TIN to a requester, you are subject to a penalty of $50 for each such failure unless your failure is due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect. Civil penalty for false information with respect to withholding. If you make a false statement with no reasonable basis that results in no backup withholding, you are subject to a $500 penalty. Criminal penalty for falsifying information. Willfully falsifying certifications or affirmations may subject you to criminal penalties including fines and/or imprisonment. Misuse of TINs. If the requester discloses or uses TINs in violation of Federal law, the requester may be subject to civil and criminal penalties. Specific Instructions Name If you are an individual, you must generally enter the name shown on your social security card. However, if you have changed your last name, for instance, due to marriage without informing the Social Security Administration of the name change, enter your first name, the last name shown on your social security card, and your new last name. If the account is in joint names, list first, and then circle, the name of the person or entity whose number you entered in Part I of the form. Sole proprietor. Enter your individual name as shown on your social security card on the Name line. You may enter your business, trade, or doing business as (DBA) name on the Business name line. Limited liability company (LLC). If you are a single-member LLC (including a foreign LLC with a domestic owner) that is disregarded as an entity separate from its owner under Treasury regulations section 301.7701-3, enter the owner s name on the Name line. Enter the LLC s name on the Business name line. Other entities. Enter your business name as shown on required Federal tax documents on the Name line. This name should match the name shown on the charter or other legal document creating the entity. You may enter any business, trade, or DBA name on the Business name line. Note: You are requested to check the appropriate box for your status (individual/sole proprietor, corporation, etc. ). Exempt From Backup Withholding If you are exempt, enter your name as described above and check the appropriate box for your status, then check the Exempt from backup withholding box in the line following the business name, sign and date the form. Generally, individuals (including sole proprietors) are not exempt from backup withholding. Corporations are exempt from backup withholding for certain payments, such as interest and dividends. Note: If you are exempt from backup withholding, you should still complete this form to avoid possible erroneous backup withholding. Exempt payees. Backup withholding is not required on any payments made to the following payees: 1. An organization exempt from tax under section 501(a), any IRA, or a custodial account under section 403(b)(7) if the account satisfies the requirements of section 401(f)(2); 2. The United States or any of its agencies or instrumentalities; 3. A state, the District of Columbia, a possession of the United States, or any of their political subdivisions or instrumentalities; 4. A foreign government or any of its political subdivisions, agencies, or instrumentalities; or 5. An international organization or any of its agencies or instrumentalities. Other payees that may be exempt from backup withholding include: 6. A corporation; 7. A foreign central bank of issue; 8. A dealer in securities or commodities required to register in the United States, the District of Columbia, or a possession of the United States;

Form W-9 (Rev. 1-2003) Page 3 9. A futures commission merchant registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission; 10. A real estate investment trust; 11. An entity registered at all times during the tax year under the Investment Company Act of 1940; 12. A common trust fund operated by a bank under section 584(a); 13. A financial institution; 14. A middleman known in the investment community as a nominee or custodian; or 15. A trust exempt from tax under section 664 or described in section 4947. The chart below shows types of payments that may be exempt from backup withholding. The chart applies to the exempt recipients listed above, 1 through 15. If the payment is for... Interest and dividend payments Broker transactions Barter exchange transactions and patronage dividends Payments over $600 required to be reported and direct sales over $5,000 1 THEN the payment is exempt for... All exempt recipients except for 9 Exempt recipients 1 through 13. Also, a person registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 who regularly acts as a broker Exempt recipients 1 through 5 Generally, exempt recipients 1 through 7 2 1 See Form 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous Income, and its instructions. 2 However, the following payments made to a corporation (including gross proceeds paid to an attorney under section 6045(f), even if the attorney is a corporation) and reportable on Form 1099-MISC are not exempt from backup withholding: medical and health care payments, attorneys fees; and payments for services paid by a Federal executive agency. Part I. Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) Enter your TIN in the appropriate box. If you are a resident alien and you do not have and are not eligible to get an SSN, your TIN is your IRS individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). Enter it in the social security number box. If you do not have an ITIN, see How to get a TIN below. If you are a sole proprietor and you have an EIN, you may enter either your SSN or EIN. However, the IRS prefers that you use your SSN. If you are a single-owner LLC that is disregarded as an entity separate from its owner (see Limited liability company (LLC) on page 2), enter your SSN (or EIN, if you have one). If the LLC is a corporation, partnership, etc., enter the entity s EIN. Note: See the chart on page 4 for further clarification of name and TIN combinations. How to get a TIN. If you do not have a TIN, apply for one immediately. To apply for an SSN, get Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card, from your local Social Security Administration office or get this form on-line at www.ssa.gov/online/ss5.html. You may also get this form by calling 1-800-772-1213. Use Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, to apply for an ITIN, or Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number, to apply for an EIN. You can get Forms W-7 and SS-4 from the IRS by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676) or from the IRS Web Site at www.irs.gov. If you are asked to complete Form W-9 but do not have a TIN, write Applied For in the space for the TIN, sign and date the form, and give it to the requester. For interest and dividend payments, and certain payments made with respect to readily tradable instruments, generally you will have 60 days to get a TIN and give it to the requester before you are subject to backup withholding on payments. The 60-day rule does not apply to other types of payments. You will be subject to backup withholding on all such payments until you provide your TIN to the requester. Note: Writing Applied For means that you have already applied for a TIN or that you intend to apply for one soon. Caution: A disregarded domestic entity that has a foreign owner must use the appropriate Form W-8.