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About VAST
The Virginia Association of Science Teachers, Inc. is a comprehensive professional organization dedicated to the advancement of science education for all. VAST provides leadership by: - promoting an environment in which all students experience science;
- supporting conditions which ensure an optimal environment for the teaching of science;
- advocating high quality science instruction for all students at all levels; and,
- providing an avenue for communication among members of the science teaching community. (Excerpted from VAST Bylaws and Operating Procedures)
When you join VAST, you become part of an exciting, vital network that can provide local, regional and national involvement to enrich your science teaching. Virginia Instructors of Physics Click here for information and to see a map of the Department of Education's eight administrative regions. VAST appoints a director for each region who serves on the VAST Board of Directors. VAST is affiliated with the Virginia Coalition for Math and Science and is a state chapter of the National Science Teachers Association. The Annual VAST PDI offers a variety of concurrent sessions and workshops which introduce new and stimulating information and techniques in all disciplines of science. Commercial and non-profit exhibits provide exposure to the very latest equipment and new teaching materials. The conference allows teachers time to share experiences and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow professionals. VAST recognizes exemplary contributions to science education through annual awards for educators in the categories of: classroom teacher, science educator (non-K12), and community partnership. Recognition Awards nomination forms are available here.
The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science Teaching program was established in 1983 by the White House and is sponsored by the National Science Foundation. The program identifies outstanding science and math teachers in each state and the four jurisdictions. These teachers will serve as models for their colleagues and will be leaders in the improvement of science and mathematics education.
Modest grants-in-aid are available as incentive funds for creative teaching projects. - Journal of Virginia Science Education
Teachers, teachers-to-be, school administrators, college science educators, informal science educators, and any others with experience in science education are invited to submit papers to be considered for publication in JVSE. The principal criterion for the acceptance of a manuscript will be that, in the opinion of the editors, it contributes to strengthening the teaching and learning of science. First published in November 2006, JVSE will become a permanent record of the growth of science teaching and learning in the Commonwealth. JVSE is available on the VAST.org website. - VAST Newsletter, The Science Educator
Each edition is full of information on such things as: - National science education news
- State Department of Education happenings
- News from VAST affiliated organizations
- Innovative science teaching strategies
- Grant information
- Summer workshops and course opportunities
- Award information and applications
Click here for more information and featured items for past issues. First begun in 1994, the VAST website provides essential information about the organization from the convenience of your computer. Here you'll find a Community Calendar, contact information for board members, and on-line forms for awards, membership, and mini-grant. Members can sign up eNotes, for timely information in electronic newsletter format. In addition, VAST merchandise can be purchased through PayPal© at the VAST Store. Click here to join.
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