Teacher Information

Project ASTRO™ Astronomers and Teachers as Partners for Learning

A program to match 3rd-9th grade teachers with amateur and professional astronomers in Bay Area schools and community organizations

In Project ASTRO, about 35 third to ninth grade teachers and youth group educators from around the Bay Area are paired each year with volunteer astronomers who have an interest in working with local schools and community centers. Together, educators and astronomers participate in a two-day summer workshop, receive astronomy resource materials, and develop a strategy for working together in and out of the classroom.

Our partnerships involve more than just one-time visits. Astronomers and educators commit to at least four site visits per year. These involve the astronomers leading or assisting with hands-on activities, answering questions, and talking about their own work and interests. Some partners also set up evening observing sessions, create astronomy clubs, go on field trips, or assist with science fair projects.

Teachers and youth group educators should have an interest in teaching astronomy and hands-on science, but do not need to have astronomy experience to participate.

Project ASTRO's goals are:

• Establish ongoing partnerships between educators and local astronomers
• Offer training for educators and astronomers in the use of hands-on astronomy activities with students
• Provide activities and resources that reflect science education reform goals and strategies

Project ASTRO's teacher experience:

• Be matched with a volunteer astronomer from your local area
• Attend a mandatory two-day summer training workshop and various optional follow-up workshops throughout the school year.
• Learn how to use astronomy and space science activities to engage and motivate students
• Receive a wide range of activities, materials, and resources
• Receive follow-up support and assistance
• Become part of a growing national network of Project ASTRO partners

Project ASTRO teachers commit to:

• Attend the summer training workshop or be considered ineligible to participate
• Obtain support of their school, district administrator, or Executive Director
• Arrange a minimum of four site visits by a local astronomer during the academic year
• Teach astronomy during the 2008-2009 school year, either as a unit or throughout the year
• Communicate openly with both their partner and the Bay Area Coordinator
• Provide regular updates to Partner and Bay Area Coordinator

Project ASTRO teacher selection will be based on:

• Commitment to Project ASTRO philosophy and program guidelines
• Support from school, school district, or Executive Director
• Availability of a volunteer astronomer in the educator’s area
• Percentage of underserved students in class
• Balanced representation of grade levels and geographic areas
• A (5 minute) telephone screening interview

*Experience in teaching astronomy is NOT necessary

All teachers must submit an application form.

If you filled out the online application, be sure to download the required Administrator Support form.

The Astronomical Society of the Pacific increases public understanding and appreciation of astronomy through scientists, educators, enthusiasts and the public as a vehicle for advancing science literacy and exchange.

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