MCPS
STEAM Professional Volunteer Program
Overview
The Montgomery County Public Schools STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Volunteers Program increases STEAM literacy and inspires students by pairing professionals with teachers to support and enhance the delivery of the MCPS STEAM curricula. It has its foundation in the 15-year collaboration with the highly successful AAAS (American Association for the Advancement of Science) STEM Volunteer Program that placed retired and working professionals with teachers in Washington, DC area schools to bring the real world into the classroom. The MCPS STEAM Volunteer program is designed to bridge the gap between STEAM professionals and our schools within Montgomery County and aims to create meaningful connections that foster collaboration. This is achieved by volunteers providing direct support in the classroom to students and teachers.
How it Works
The program recruits experienced and passionate STEAM professionals from diverse backgrounds, including scientists, engineers, technologists, artists, mathematicians, and more. These volunteers (guest speakers, mentors, judges, etc.) undergo a screening process to ensure their expertise aligns with the program's goals and their commitment to education.
Once selected, mentors are paired with MCPS K-12 teachers who have expressed interest in incorporating STEAM concepts into their curriculum. The pairing is based on the volunteer's expertise and the specific needs and interests of the teachers. The program organizers facilitate this matchmaking process to ensure compatibility and effective collaboration.
The volunteer program operates through a combination of virtual and in-person interactions. Volunteers and teachers communicate regularly through video conferencing, emails, and other digital platforms, allowing for ongoing support and guidance.
The volunteer program is highly flexible and adaptable, catering to the unique requirements of each teacher and their class. Volunteers assist teachers in various ways, including:
Subject-specific expertise: Volunteers provide insights and knowledge related to their STEAM field, sharing real-world applications and helping teachers align classroom content with practical experiences.
Curriculum enhancement: Volunteers collaborate with teachers to supplement STEAM lesson plans by bringing their knowledge to bear on the subjects and engaging students to think critically and solve problems.
Resource sharing: Volunteers help identify and share relevant educational resources, including books, websites, software tools, and hands-on materials, to enrich the classroom experience and keep up with the latest advancements in their respective fields.
Project-based learning: Volunteers support teachers in implementing project-based learning activities, fostering creativity, teamwork, and interdisciplinary thinking among students.
Career guidance: Volunteers share their professional journeys and experiences, exposing students to diverse STEAM career paths and providing guidance on educational and career choices.
By connecting STEAM professionals with teachers and classes at all levels, the STEAM Professional Volunteer Program aims to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators, problem solvers, and leaders in the STEAM fields, ultimately fostering a more robust and dynamic educational landscape.
To learn more about the history of the STEAM Volunteer program and resources, please visit the AAAS STEM Volunteer website at https://www.aaas.org/programs/STEM-volunteers.
Benefits of STEAM Professionals in the Classroom
Students benefit by including STEAM professionals as volunteers and mentors in the classroom by gaining real-world expertise, exploring career options, finding inspiration, improving problem-solving skills, building confidence, and receiving personalized guidance for success in STEAM disciplines. View the video below for examples of volunteers supporting MCPS Teachers.
My name is Zulay Joa and I have been a STEM educator in Montgomery County for 14 years. During this time I've had the opportunity to collaborate with Mr. Craig Koralek. Mr. Koralek is a retired Environmental Engineer and AAAS volunteer who has dedicated his time to supporting the STEM Academy program at Glenallan Elementary. Mr. Koralek not only provides professional insight and academic support to students in grades K-5, but he also sparks their interest and curiosity in science and engineering by engaging the students in meaningful conversations and also, by motivating them to participate in class engineering challenges. Mr. Koralek is a wonderful asset to our school community and most importantly to our students. Mr. Koralek is not only a volunteer but also a great friend and colleague.
Zulay Joa, STEM Focus Teacher/Coordinator K-5 & Fourth Grade Math Instructor, Glenallan ES