September 2025
WUP MiSTEM Updates
Dr. Emily Geiger, WUP MiSTEM Network Director
(906)482-4250 ext. 188
GOISD MS/HS Math Professional Learning Network (PLN)
The next meeting is scheduled for September 25 at 9a - 3p ET in Bergland. Sub-costs will be reimbursed. The focus of this meeting is for power standards identification, followed by vertical alignment of standards. If your district has new hires or interest in participating, contact Emily Geiger.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
SOLID START/OpenSciEd (OSE)
The Western U.P. MiSTEM Network is supporting K–5 schools with high-quality, NGSS-aligned science instructional materials. Two key options are being implemented:
- SOLID Start (K–2): An open education resource that integrates literacy and science, helping our youngest learners build a strong foundation in both reading and scientific practices.
- OpenSciEd Elementary (3–5): A research-based curriculum designed to engage students in hands-on, phenomenon-driven learning while meeting Michigan’s NGSS-aligned science standards.
Together, these resources ensure coherence across grades K–5, provide teachers with structured support, and prepare students with the skills and curiosity needed for deeper science learning.
***For teacher training, resources, and/or supply kits, please reach out to Shelly Trier (mtrier@goisd.org) or Emily Geiger (egeiger@copperisd.org)
_____________________________________________________________________________________
COPPER COUNTRY MATH CIRCLE:
_____________________________________________________________________________________
CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICER PROGRAM (for STUDENTS):
Grade 6-12 Science Faculty have been emailed about making nominations.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
CSforMichigan EDUCATION CONFERENCE (NEW!!!!):
The CSforMichigan Education Conference brings together educators, leaders, and partners from across the state to explore, learn, and plan for high-quality computer science education. Over two days, participants engage in keynotes, breakout sessions, and collaborative planning to strengthen CS teaching and implementation in Michigan schools.
Dates & Options:
- Day 1 – Sept. 23: CS Foundations ($99) - Get inspired with a keynote address and four breakout sessions packed with strategies, tools, and resources to start or grow your CS initiatives.
- Day 2 – Sept. 24: Next Steps in CS ($159 includes both days) - Bring your district team (2–5 members) for a hands-on planning day with expert facilitators to design your next big steps in CS implementation.
Why Attend?
- Gain practical tools and actionable strategies to integrate CS into your schools.
- Collaborate with experts and peers to solve challenges and create solutions.
- Enjoy networking opportunities and explore innovative resources during Vendor Playtime.
- Earn SCECH hours while growing your impact.
Location
Lansing Community College – West Campus
5708 Cornerstone Dr, Lansing, MI 48917
Lunch included both days!
Register Now – you can register for day one or both, but space is limited! Let’s keep the momentum going. We can’t wait to see you in September!
_____________________________________________________________________________________
NATIONAL PLACE-BASED EDUCATION CONFERENCE 2025:
National PBE Conference Website
Contact Emily Geiger (egeiger@copperisd.org) if you are interested in attending.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
SCRIPT Workshops
Are any districts interested in scaffolded CS Strategic Planning? Please let Emily Geiger (egeiger@copperisd.org) know of interest.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
MICHIGAN ALLIANCE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (MAEOE) 2025 CONFERENCE:
Time to save the date for a magical, historical, natural and colorful destination! It may not be on an island but does have a peninsula! Northern Michigan University will host our annual conference event Friday October 3-5, 2025 in Marquette, MI.
The peak of fall color season and the increased popularity of Marquette will path the way for a tremendous adventure! Realizing the journey is long (3 hours west of the bridge in GOOD weather), there will be pre conference field trips scheduled on your way Thursday, October 2 with an extra welcoming gathering Thursday evening at Presque Isle Park in addition to Friday's traditional MAEOE MASH.
Hotel reservations, campground information will be released soon. Look for a new MAEOE website in early March with all this and more.
Marquette has been on the MAEOE Membership's radar for a long time. This conference will be well worth the trip. Save the dates for a chance to cross the bridge and the western U.P. in the peak (or near peak) of color season. This conference will take your breath away.
Contact Emily Geiger (egeiger@copperisd.org) if you are interested in attending.