FAQs

• How do I fill out the order forms?
  For full kit order forms: download the form and fill out the Required Information section first. We cannot fill orders without that information, so please ensure that section is filled out and accurate. Then, under the Order Check column, put a check or an X in the box corresponding to the kit title you'd like to order.

For refill order forms: download the form and fill out the Required Information section first. We cannot fill orders without that information, so please ensure that section is filled out and accurate. Then, under the Order Quantity column, input the number of items or sets you'd like to order, in the corresponding row. Items that are listed "each" are sold individually, and teachers can order as many as they need for however many classes they're teaching. Teachers, please note: If something is listed as a set or pack, the number you input into the Order Quantity column will be the number of set or packs you will receive and be charged for. For example: Markers, set of 30, with 30 in the Order Quantity column = a delivery of 900 markers total and an equivalent charge. Keep this in mind as you order! In addition, if you've ordered materials before and can reuse them, or if you already have an item in your classroom you can use instead, there is no need to order more unless you are simply stocking your shelves. 

• What does kit rental entail?
  The kits we have available for rental are owned either by the SMC or by districts within our cooperative. They are stored at the SMC when not in use and are picked up or delivered on a rotational schedule. When they are not in use, the SMC staff is working hard to replenish consumable items that have been used, or broken or lost parts. Because of this, we request that all base parts and any extra consumables are returned with the kit to the SMC, so that they can be reused or distributed as needed. If items are not returned, it may limit our ability to return the kit to the rotation and can cause students to miss out on valuable lessons. So please, make an effort to return items with the kit!

• What if a kit part gets broken?
  There is a bag in the kit for broken parts. Broken parts should always be returned in the kit so that they can be accounted for in our inventory. If a part arrives broken, contact us right away for a replacement.

• Who is responsible for broken or missing items?
  When kits are returned to the SMC they are inventoried and restocked. If there are missing materials we will issue a list to your district, and ask that you check your classroom and return the items if they are found. It is inevitable that things will go missing from time to time so please note any missing items on the inventory sheet. If a missing item cannot be found, the district may be charged for it. 

• Do I really have to inventory all parts in each kit?
  Yes. Students or parent helpers can make this task easier. Doing the inventory is the only way to ensure that everything gets returned with the kit. Many consumable items do not need to be counted, but rather a check that the bag and any extra is being returned. The SMC staff inventory every kit in each rotation, meaning we check about half a million parts in 4 weeks and there isn’t always enough stock to replace missing materials. The more organized the kits are upon return, the more likely you will receive a complete and organized kit during the next rotation

• How does the kit rotation schedule work?
  Science kits are distributed on a synchronous rotation schedule so that every class in a given school is studying the same strand of science at the same time. Ideally, kits are used three times each school year, thus maximizing the utilization of kit investments. The kit rotation schedule allows 8 weeks in the classroom. The kit replenishment schedule is staggered so that transportation and replenishment proceed smoothly. 

• When will I receive a kit?
  1st rotation- Kits arrive at school: Before school starts. Kits return to SMC: December - January
  2nd rotation- Kits arrive at school: December - January. Kits return to SMC: March - April
  3rd rotation- Kits arrive at school: April. Kits return to SMC: June 

• Who delivers the kits?
  Each district is responsible for the delivery and pick up of their assigned science kits. For those districts not able to pick up or deliver their kits, the SMC will coordinate the delivery (charges will be applied). If a teacher misses the scheduled pick up date, it is their responsibility to return the kit to the SMC. 

• What do I do if my kit arrives with materials missing?
  Please call the SMC immediately and we’ll get the materials to you right away. 

• Why are there only enough materials in a kit for 8 groups or 16 pairs?
  FOSS, STC, Amplify, and OpenSciEd science kits are sold with the intention of having students collaborate in 8 groups of 4, or 16 pairs. We also base our material numbers off this standard. 

• When is professional development for science?
  View current workshops at www.pdenroller.org/nwesd/catalog