ASTA’s Ambassador Program
ASTA’s Ambassador Program, generously funded by the Salt River Project, and developed in partnership with the Arizona Department of Education supports exceptional science educators in becoming extraordinary science education facilitators. Using a “train the trainer” model, educators expand their science knowledge and master techniques and strategies proven for student success in STEM. All Ambassadors should have a deep understanding of A Framework for K-12 Science Education and/or 3-Dimensions as well as Working with Big Ideas in Science Education, and the 2018 AzSS.
ASTA is pleased to announce that the Ambassador Program will be continuing during the 2024-2025 academic year. The program is funded by the Salt River Project and is developed in partnership with the Arizona Department of Education.
The Ambassador Program has been designed as a “train the trainer” model with Ambassadors facilitating professional learning regarding the shifts required in science instruction with the AZ Science Standards (AzSS). The goal of the program to continue to develop a cadre of teacher leaders, from around the state, who can provide professional development to schools, districts, and regions in regard to understanding the AzSS and the 3-Dimensions, specifically how these 3-dimensions translate into classroom practice.
Who can be an Ambassador?
Ambassadors are teachers, retired educators, curriculum specialists, anyone who is passionate about science education and helping others to understand and implement the shifts in instruction that are needed with implementing the 2018 science standards.
To learn more about the program
click here .
- Applications open yearly in late summer/early autumn
- Year Commitment
- Application reviewed by Professional Development Committee
- Monthly ambassador meetings (virtual)
- 2 face-to-face trainings with fellow ambassadors
- Expectation to facilitate 4 professional learning sessions/year
It is the goal of the program to continue to develop a cadre of teacher leaders, from around the state, who can provide professional development to schools, districts, and regions in regard to understanding the AzSS and the 3-Dimensions, specifically how these 3-dimensions translate into classroom practice. Ambassadors lead webinars and workshop both virtually and in person throughout the state. Some of the topics presented previously include:
- Understanding the AZ Science Standards
- Dipping into the SEP’s
- Dipping into the CCC’s
- What does PHENOMENA mean?
- Asking ? and Question Driving Board
- Analyzing & Interpreting Data
- Developing & Using Models in Science Education
- Constructing Explanations of Phenomena
- Evidence–Based Arguments
