U.S. Secondary Science Educators: CORAL STEM Now Accepting Applications
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — As educators strive to help the next generation understand Earth as an interconnected set of systems and make informed decisions about challenges facing the planet, the American Geosciences Institute (AGI), in partnership with the University of Miami (UM), is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for CORAL STEM (Creating Opportunities for Research-Aligned Learning in STEM), a dynamic professional learning opportunity designed to empower secondary science educators through research-based, ocean-focused STEM experiences.
An all-expenses-covered immersive opportunity, CORAL STEM will bring together educators from across the United States to explore marine science, human impact, and Earth systems through micro-paleontology data collection, field experiences, and other hands-on activities. Participants will work alongside scientists to collect, review, and validate research data related to coral reef health, and will also explore an innovative, new curriculum that uses microscopic marine organisms (foraminifera) to illuminate complex concepts related to environmental change, human impacts, and sustainability. In Fall 2026, the teachers will implement elements of the curriculum in their teaching and provide insights based on the responses of students.
Applicants should have a basic familiarity with oceans and marine systems, climate and environmental change, Earth systems, and sustainability concepts. Selected educators will participate in a one-hour virtual webinar on April 8, 2026, followed by an in-person program held May 10-15, 2026, on the UM campus in Miami, Florida, where they will collaborate with scientists and other STEM educators to deepen their understanding of Earth systems. Teachers will leave the program equipped with resources, strategies, and confidence to use the curriculum in their classrooms and share it with other colleagues.
“CORAL STEM builds on AGI’s longstanding commitment to connecting Earth science research with education that reaches classrooms across the country,” said Dr. Ed Robeck, AGI’s Director of Education and Outreach. “By bringing educators together with scientists, AGI helps teachers translate complex topics like the interactions of ocean systems and human impacts into meaningful, engaging lessons for students.”
Financial support for participants is provided, including reimbursement for travel expenses, hotel accommodations, and meals during the in-person program in Miami.
Application review will begin March 1, 2026, and continue until the program is filled. Organizations serving U.S. secondary science educators are encouraged to share this opportunity with their professional networks and educator communities. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/CORAL-STEM. Educators with questions can contact AGI Education & Outreach at outreach@americangeosciences.org.
This program is supported by the National Science Foundation, Award #2035135.
About AGI
The American Geosciences Institute (AGI), a federation of scientific and professional organizations representing over a quarter-million geoscientists, is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to serving the geoscience community and addressing the geoscience needs of society. AGI headquarters are in Alexandria, Virginia.
Contact: Geoff Camphire, AGI Communications gac@americangeosciences.org