Ann C. Powel Memorial Scholarship for K-12 Teachers
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the Ann C. Powel Memorial Scholarship is to provide selected K-12 teachers the opportunity to conduct research with the Potomac Environmental Research and Education Center (PEREC) faculty during the summer. Dr. R. Chris Jones created the scholarship in honor of his late wife, Ann C. Powel, who was an innovative elementary educator, researcher, environmental advocate and artist.
Research faculty working with PEREC use the tools of scientific research, restoration, education, and policy analysis to help society understand and sustain natural processes in ecosystems, watersheds, and landscapes of the Potomac River. We are seeking K-12 educators with a strong desire to conduct research in these fields and translate their experiences into lesson plans for their school.
One $4000 Scholarship will be available for summer.
Selected teachers, called Powel Fellows, will work alongside senior researchers from the Potomac Environmental Research and Education Center (PEREC).
Summer 2018 Research projects could include: Plankton, fish, and/or macroinvertebrate function and identification, water quality parameter (e.g. dissolved oxygen, nitrates, pH, phosphates, PAR) characterization, examining aquatic ecosystem trends, ecosystem contamination, and other water quality impairments as well research in environmental policy. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact PEREC faculty (emails at perec.gmu.edu) to discuss potential projects.
In addition to conducting research under a PEREC faculty mentor, Fellows will be expected to develop and implement lesson plans based on their PEREC research during their first year back in the classroom and make them available to other teachers teaching similar classes. Lesson plans will be published on the PEREC web site. Teachers will also be encouraged to present their findings at a local or regional scientific meeting.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is available to in-service K-12 teachers in VA, DC, MD area with a strong interest in environmental science.
Requirements?
Applicants must be in-service teachers and under contract for 2018-19.
Applicants should submit a letter detailing: their motivation for seeking their scholarship, general area of their research interest and contacts made with prospective PEREC faculty mentors. Applicants should also submit a resume and two letters of support from one from your principal/supervisor and a second from a colleague.
Timeline?
Applications are due by 5pm: April 15 Scholarship winner will be announced in: May
Scholarships will be administered through the George Mason University Foundation, Inc.
Ann C. Powel Memorial Scholarship FAQs?
Are these fellowships paid positions?Yes , selected Scholars (fellows?) will receive $4000. Their faculty mentor will receive $1000 to defray the costs of research supplies, travel and equipment.
Not at this time, but we will look in to it.
Fellows will begin in late June and continue working through mid-August, approximately 6-8 weeks.
We will accept submissions through April 15.
Final decisions will be made May 2018. If you are selected, a GMU PEREC representative will reach out to you regarding next steps.
- A resume that includes your current school, subject(s) taught, grade level, years of in-service teaching.
- A 500 word Statement of Interest, which will include your Area of Interest and how you foresee results of your research articulating with your teaching.
- Your prospective PEREC faculty mentor. http://cos.gmu.edu/perec/people/
- Two Letters of Support one of which should come from a supervisor/principal. Please include contact information from each reference.
- Fellows will learn about Potomac River research and current initiatives.
- Fellows will have the opportunity to work with senior research scientists and participate in research efforts along the Potomac River as well as Chesapeake Bay initiatives.
- Fellow will develop lesson plans, which provide K12 students with authentic STEM activities that enhance understanding of Potomac River resources.
Image and publicity release:
As a condition of your scholarship, you agree to a photo and video release of your image and or work to be highlighted as an Innovator in Education in media releases, on the PEREC and/or GMU websites and associated social media accounts.
Please email your resume, Statement of Interest, and two letters of support to:
Lisa Bair, HR and Administrative Specialist
Environmental Science & Policy, George Mason University
4400 University Drive MS5F2
Fairfax, VA 22030
Tel: 703-993-5881 Fax: 703-993-1066 lbair@gmu.edu