Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge call for entries

The third annual Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge is now accepting applications for the 2019–2021 program. The Challenge—sponsored by Shell Oil Company (Shell) and administered by the National Science Teaching Association—encourages science teachers (grades K–12) in select communities located throughout the U.S. who have found innovative ways to deliver quality lab experiences utilizing limited school and laboratory resources, to apply for a chance to win up to $435,000 in prizes, including school science lab makeover support packages valued at $10,000 (for the elementary and middle levels) and $15,000 (for the high school level). The deadline for submissions is February 19, 2020.

“Outstanding teachers continue to employ innovative techniques to create exceptional lab experiences with limited resources,” said Dr. Frazier Wilson, VP Shell Oil Company Foundation and Director Workforce Development and Diversity Outreach. “We believe it is important to foster creativity through hands-on experiences. The additional resources enable students to develop a problem-solving mindset that will lead to the energy solutions of the future. The Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge is one of many efforts that supports future generations in becoming innovators and assists educators to foster excitement about science among students.”

“All students deserve a world class STEM education that includes quality lab experiences. Sadly, far too many schools have little or no lab equipment, materials, or training for teachers,” said NSTA Executive Director Dr. David Evans. “The Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge will not only provide teachers with the tools and resources they need to strengthen their existing labs, but will also provide them with the professional learning opportunities needed to support high-quality science teaching and learning.”

Judges will evaluate entries based on various criteria, including demonstrated science inquiry and innovation in the classroom with limited equipment; demonstrated impact and engagement with students and the community; and demonstrated need for additional professional development and science materials. Thirty-six regional winners will be selected: 12 at the elementary level, 12 at the middle level, and 12 at the high school level. Of the 36 winners, three grand prize winners—one at each level—will be selected.

The elementary and middle level regional winners will each receive a school science lab makeover support package valued at $10,000 and high school level regional winners will receive a school science lab makeover support package valued at $15,000. Each grand prize winner will receive an additional $5,000 of support to attend the NSTA National Conference on Science Education in Chicago, Illinois, April 8–11, 2021. The grand prize winners and their principals will be honored at the Shell reception and Teachers Awards Gala, taking place during the conference.

For more information about the Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge or to apply, visit www.nsta.org/shellsciencelab/regional.aspx.