Friday Report: January 17, 2014 Date Submitted: January 14, 2014

Subject : WABS Teacher STEM Externship Program Submitted by : STEM Leadership Team

Strategic Target: 5.4a

Washington Alliance for Better Schools (WABS), now in its fourth year offering the STEM externship program is a high-profile paid summer externship and professional development opportunity for middle and high school teachers to gain valuable professional experience with problem-based learning, Next Generation Science Standards, Math Common Core State Standards, and 21st Century Skills while increasing industry awareness and involvement in STEM education.

Participating middle and high school science, math and CTE teachers are matched to WABS business partners from a variety of industries to work on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) projects. This program enables teachers to connect their curriculum to real-world applications, which enhances student engagement and provides examples of how their learning is linked to future career options. The program consists of a three-week, paid, summer externship program in the summer and three follow-up professional development sessions that will take place during the 2014-2015 school year.