ASTA Arkansas Science Teachers Association
Mission: To support Arkansas Science Educators
Arkansas
Science
Teachers
Association
Make Every Science Lesson COUNT
All About Our Organization
Arkansas Science Teachers Association serves the science educators in the state of Arkansas. We are here to make educational changing decisions to best help serve our community, students, and fellow educators. Our board works tirelessly to provide the most up to date science educational news, ground breaking classroom and lesson strategies, and professional development opportunities for all science educators from the primary to the collegiate level.
ASTA Matt Holden Prepares for Trip
Matt Holden has served the Science Teachers organization for many years in different capacities. He currently serves as the Membership and Technology Director. His ability to put students first using meaningful experiences he has gained through fellowships, grants, and other opportunities is unmatched. Congrats again to our 2025 #ScienceCommunicationFellowship cohort, who are in #Guam preparing for an epic season of #oceanexploration in the #PacificOcean!
.jpg)
Congratulations PAEMST Finalist for Science in Arkansas 2025
Two Arkansas teachers were recently selected as 2025 Science State Finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).
The National Science Foundation, on behalf of the White House, oversees the program that recognizes outstanding teachers who have demonstrated a commitment to professional development, innovative teaching techniques, and the use of technology in their classrooms.
The 2025 PAEMST cycle was for STEM teachers of 7th through 12th grades. The Arkansas-PAEMST Selection Panel selected two teachers for the 2025 state PAEMST finalists: The Arkansas’ finalists are now eligible to be considered for recognition by the national committee.
-
Angela Miller, Greenbrier Middle School, Greenbrier School District
-
Whitney Major, Lakeside High School, Lakeside School District
2023 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
Mary Maris
Little Rock Central High School
Little Rock, AR
Science
AP Physics Students Learn about Circular Motion
One of the biggest problems students face with circular motion is the idea of centripetal force. Many students seem to think that a “magic” centripetal force is exerted on an object when it is in circular motion, and that the direction of this force is directed outward, not inward to the center of the circle. Students think this because they are confusing centripetal force with inertia. They think that if they were in a car making a fast turn and the door opened, they would be thrown out of the car. Thus, they believe there is a force related to circular motion directed to the outside of the circle. It is important to emphasize that a force is an interaction between two objects and help students identify the object exerting the force toward the center of another object’s circular motion. Chris Coker took students from Camden High School in Camden, AR to collect data about circular motion at the local
Presenting at NSTA Philly '25
ASTA Board Members present each year at National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) Conferences around the world. The Spring Conference was held in Philladelphia this year. Our very own, Chris Coker presented about data analysis in the science classroom.
Using data from labs of various science topics from speed to kinetics, attendees will perform simple labs then chart, graph, and analyze their data with the other participants. Attendees will perform a type of vertical whiteboarding carousel walk to analyze other groups' information.
The Warren-Young Scholarship
Forensic Science Teacher Scholarship (Grant)
Deadline: May 1 2025
This award is designed to encourage forensic science education at the middle and high school level and is intended to provide funds to purchase supplies, equipment, or reference materials to support forensic science education in teaching basic scientific principles. Applications will be judged based on how the funds will further the goals of the Foundation. Priority will be given to programs with apparent financial need and those that provide forensic science education in underserved population areas.
BOOK SHOUTOUT
Answers to Your Biggest Questions About Teaching Secondary Science
By: Karen Mesmer, Enya Granados, Kevin Gant, Laura Shafer, Ayanna D. Perry
Great for Pre-Service Educators
Designed for just-in-time learning and support, this practical resource gives you brief, actionable answers to your most pressing questions about teaching secondary science.
Get Inspired - Educators Shine Bright!
Mrs. Kellye O'Neal's 3rd grade Science classes at Jessieville School District, used 4 different "Hummingbird beaks" to determine which design type would best allow them to meet their needs for food. The students were given 4 pipets to represent the beaks- one with tape on the end, one with a paper clip keeping it closed, one with holes punched on the top, and one was not altered.
UALR - STRIVE
Are you looking for an educational professional development like no other. Well, then look no farther! STRIVE is a State-wide PAID Professional Development Program for Arkansas Middle and High School STEM Teachers. For more information click the link below! Application deadlines are coming soon!
What We Offer
Are you looking for ways to make learning fun in your classroom? Look no further! Our website offers a variety of lesson ideas, learning resources, and educational support to help you engage your students. We also highlight science teachers in the state who are making a in their classrooms. Join our community today and start making learning a blast!
Contact our Organization
Meet ASTA
Passionate Educator
With a deep-rooted passion for science education, ASTA has been dedicated to inspiring young minds in Arkansas since the early 2000s. ASTA's commitment to fostering a love for science among students of diverse backgrounds has been unwavering. ASTA believes that every student has the potential to excel in the field of science and is devoted to providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. Join ASTA in our mission to cultivate the next generation of scientists.
