The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) has initiated collaboration with its first cohort of Sustainable and Innovative STEM Master Teacher Fellows. This effort is part of a National Science Foundation grant aimed at enhancing teacher engagement in K–5 STEM education across New Jersey.
The project, funded by a $2.9 million grant awarded in September 2024, will span six years. It is led by Lauren Madden, professor of Elementary Science Education, alongside Melissa Zrada from TCNJ’s School of Engineering, Shannon Graham from TCNJ’s School of Science, and Matthew Taylor from Salve Regina University in Rhode Island.
“This project keeps New Jersey public schools ahead of the curve when it comes to problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking,” Madden stated. “We’re building a cadre of STEM teacher-leaders who will inspire innovation in children across the state.”
The inaugural group consists of 18 teachers from various school districts including Camden City School District, Elizabeth Public School District, Ewing Public Schools, Flemington-Raritan Public Schools, Highland Park School District, Lawrence Township Public Schools, Trenton Public Schools, and Vineland Public Schools. These educators are set to begin coursework for a graduate certificate in Environmental Sustainability Education this month.
Monica Nardone, a third-grade teacher at Stokes Elementary School in Trenton and participant in the program remarked: “I am truly excited for the opportunity to collaborate with other educators in implementing climate change education into the classroom. This will be impactful for our educators and the students we serve now and in the future. It is an opportunity for me to grow as an educator and learn more about how to become a teacher-leader in the classroom and in my district.”
Upon completion of their studies, these teachers will undergo intensive professional development focused on K–5 STEM leadership to serve as leaders within their educational communities.
