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Iowa Academic Standards for Science
Videos
Introduction to the 2025 Iowa Academic Standards for Science (4:36)
Sensemaking of Relevant Phenomena in a Science Classroom (6:46)
Elementary Science: Why It Matters (5:28)
In-Person Learning
Every science educator should attend some kind of in-person professional learning every year.
2026
| Date | Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Jan. 15 | Science Leadership Summit Location: Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library, 1250 SW District Dr, Ankeny Meeting intended for district leaders in science education (administrators, coaches, curriculum directors, etc.), higher education faculty, informal educators and affiliate groups interested in advancing science education in the state of Iowa. The focus for the day will be the adoption and implementation of high-quality instructional materials for science instruction K-12. Contact Chris Like at chris.like@iowa.gov with questions. |
| Jan. 16-17 | Conservation: People and Animals Location: Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines Participants will explore interactions between humans and animals in ecosystems, learn about Blank Park Zoo’s local and global conservation efforts, and discover how to connect with researchers and conservationists committed to wildlife conservation around the world. |
| Feb. 20-21 | Biomimicry and Inspiration Location: Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines Participants will engage in activities introducing biologically inspired technology, explain why it is important and fascinating, and provide opportunities to research their own solutions to human or environmental challenges. This workshop aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards, particularly those related to engineering solutions. |
| Feb. 21 | Iowa Conservation Education Coalition (ICEC) Winter Workshop 2026 (WW26) - Linking Learning Landscapes: Where Classrooms and Conservation Meet Location: Kirkwood Community College - Horticulture Building, Cedar Rapids The ICEC WW26 will bring together classroom teachers and informal, environmental educators to explore the power of collaboration for place-based environmental education. Through panel discussions and practical examples, participants will leave with innovative strategies for integrating local environmental themes into everyday teaching. Join us to connect with educators committed to conservation across Iowa! |
| March 4-6 | Iowa Association of Naturalists Workshop Location: Polk County |
| March 20-22 | Learning and Living in a Changing Climate Location: Holiday Inn Dubuque, 450 Main St, Dubuque Environmental Issues Instruction and Upper Iowa University will offer a 2-credit graduate or undergraduate course, Learning and Living in a Changing Climate, at the Holiday Inn in Dubuque, Iowa, Friday, March 20-Sunday, March 22, 2026. The update session will be a virtual Zoom session on June 13, 2026. This interdisciplinary hands-on college credit course spans all levels and content areas, PreK-14. The registration fee of $290 includes food and lodging, a plethora of teaching materials and sub-grants for school projects. If you have questions, contact Dr. Barbara Ehlers at ehlersb@uiu.edu. |
| March 27-28 | Zoo Structure and Design Location: Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines Educators will learn about the structure of Blank Park Zoo, including its history, present state, and future plans. Experiences in several parts of the zoo will allow participants to gain a deeper understanding about what it takes to provide for the needs of animals in captivity. Activities will include designing a zoo exhibit that demonstrates knowledge of species habitats, adaptations, and requirements, and utilizes engineering practices found in the Next Generation Science Standards. |
| March 31 | Iowa’s Geologic History: Rocks and Fossils Workshop for Teachers & Naturalists Participate in several exciting, hands-on activities in the field, and meet other Earth Science teachers from across the state. Discuss what’s working and what’s not in your classrooms and share your tried-and-true methods for teaching about the geology of Iowa. Online via Panopto and/or Zoom - March 31, April 7 & 21, 2026 On the University of Northern Iowa Campus - June 23-25, 2026 |
| April 10 | UNI Science Education Update Conference Location: University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls Dr. Chad Heinzel, Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences from the University of Northern Iowa, will be the keynote speaker. The conference will focus on issues and topics related to teaching Grades K-12 Science and STEM in collaboration with UNI STEM Departments and STEM Support Services. The conference will feature keynote presentations; presentations and workshop sessions; networking focus groups; and exhibits. Participating teachers will be provided with instructional materials and strategies that can be implemented in the classroom. Lunch and refreshments will be provided along with prizes and gifts. Sub-reimbursements to Grades K-12 teachers who register early. No registration fee for participants. |
| April 15-18 | National Conference on Science Education (National Science Teaching Association) Location: Anaheim, CA Soak up the sunshine and inspiration at NSTA’s premier professional learning event of the spring! Set against the vibrant backdrop of Anaheim, California, NSTA ANA26 brings together science and STEM educators for four days of meaningful learning, collaboration, and growth. Whether you’re sparking curiosity in the classroom, leading professional development, shaping curriculum, or driving innovation across your district, you’ll leave with practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and lasting connections to support your professional journey. Join a vibrant community of educators as we grow together—because lifelong learning begins with collective insight. |
| June 15-18 | AP Summer Institute Session I Online Location: Online The AP® Summer Institute is designed for: teachers who want to learn to teach AP® courses in one of the content areas; current AP® teachers; teachers of gifted and talented students, and gifted program coordinators; and teachers and administrators wishing to learn how to establish Advanced Placement programs at their local schools or school districts. |
| June 22-25 | AP Summer Institute Session I On-Campus Location: Belin Blank Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City The AP® Summer Institute is designed for: teachers who want to learn to teach AP® courses in one of the content areas; current AP® teachers; teachers of gifted and talented students, and gifted program coordinators; and teachers and administrators wishing to learn how to establish Advanced Placement programs at their local schools or school districts. |
| July 6-9 | AP Summer Institute Session II On-Campus Location: Belin Blank Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City The AP® Summer Institute is designed for: teachers who want to learn to teach AP® courses in one of the content areas; current AP® teachers; teachers of gifted and talented students, and gifted program coordinators; and teachers and administrators wishing to learn how to establish Advanced Placement programs at their local schools or school districts. |
| July 20-23 | AP Summer Institute Session II Online Location: Online The AP® Summer Institute is designed for: teachers who want to learn to teach AP® courses in one of the content areas; current AP® teachers; teachers of gifted and talented students, and gifted program coordinators; and teachers and administrators wishing to learn how to establish Advanced Placement programs at their local schools or school districts. |
| Aug. 12-14 | Iowa Association of Naturalists Workshop Location: Cerro Gordo County |
| Nov. 4-7 | National Conference on Science Education (National Science Teaching Association) Location: Indianapolis, IN |
Professional Learning from National Science Teachers Association
- NGSS.NSTA - Provides links to resources related to understanding the standards, curriculum planning, classroom resources (including lesson ideas and plans), and professional learning.
- NGSS Videos - Features glimpses into various K-12 classrooms
- NSTA’s Professional Development Indexer - Allows individuals to diagnosis needs related to specific content across three science disciplines – physical, earth/space, and life.
- Bozeman Science - A video series created by the 2011 Montana Teacher of the Year. The videos focus on providing information about science content. There is also a special series on the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts of the NGSS.
Professional Learning from Education Partners
- Bozeman Science - A video series created by the 2011 Montana Teacher of the Year. The videos focus on providing information about science content. There is also a special series on the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts of the NGSS.
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