7 WSST News

RUNNING FOR DISTRICT 5: Sara Krauskopf, Madison Position Statement and Vision: I want to support members of WSST in their ongoing learning to develop a more inclusive, anti-racist approach to teaching science. We can all learn from one another and develop reciprocal partnerships with other organizations as we work towards that goal. After serving as the interim District 5 Director this past year, I better understand the function of our organization and our educational networks. During the pandemic, much of WSST’s role was providing support and information to our overworked members and educational partners. As opportunities open up for more in-person learning, I hope WSST can again facilitate in-depth, in-person programs and connections to help us build more equitable environments for science learning. I also want to find ways to continue offering on-line learning programs that connect educators around the State. We don’t want to return to school exactly as we did before the pandemic; let’s find ways to leverage our experiences during this unprecedented year to create better opportunities for teaching and learning overall. Background Education: I hold a Ph.D. and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from UWMadison and a B.A. from Carleton College. I taught secondary science and math in the Madison area for over 15 years. I also worked in Science Outreach, writing curriculum and providing teacher professional learning opportunities.

Present Teaching Assignment or employment: I supervise secondary science teacher candidates at UW-Madison and work as an independent educational consultant. My independent work currently involves

WSST Voting Districts

District 1 (CESA 11 & 12) District 2 (CESA 9 & 10) District 3 (CESA 7 & 8) District 4 (CESA 3 & 4) District 5 (CESA 2 & 5) District 6 (CESA 6) District 7 (CESA 1)

writing curriculum for a Wisconsin agriculture education group.

Professional Activities: DPI Science Education Book Equity group, WSST District 5 Director

Professional Organizations: WSST, NSTA, SEEDS, WAEE

RUNNING FOR DISTRICT 6: Sarah Adumat, Oshkosh Position Statement and Vision: I am committed to supporting veteran, new, and preservice teachers in learning and teaching science that supports student sensemaking in an equitable environment for all learners. I believe educators should support students in reading, writing, speaking, and listening as they investigate phenomena and build a conceptual understanding that is relevant and applicable to their lives. Part of making science relevant is helping teachers and students find connections across disciplines and in their daily interactions. Since many districts may not have a person dedicated to providing professional learning in science, WSST plays an important role in offering ongoing professional opportunities for educators and administrators alike to engage in learning and conversation around science and equity. One aspect I am passionate about is increasing the numbers of elementary educators who are members of WSST and who participate in the conference and other professional learning opportunities in science. In addition to focusing on mathematics and literacy skills, all students deserve opportunities to build on their curiosity about the world through asking questions, conducting investigations, analyzing data, constructing explanations, developing models, arguing from evidence, and communicating information. These practices are applicable across all subjects, grade levels, student backgrounds, and communities. As an organization, WSST should strive to bring people together to support a network of educators committed to promoting social justice through three dimensional science learning.

Background Education: I attended UW-Madison and earned my undergrad degree in Secondary Science Education and a Master’s in Science Education. In 2020, I received my EdD in Educational Leadership from UWOshkosh. I also obtained a Director of Instruction license and will have my Principal License in August of 2021.

Present Teaching Assignment or Employment: I am currently a STEM Coach in the Oshkosh Area School District. I am also working with UW-Oshkosh Secondary Science Education students this semester for their clinical course.

Professional Activities: Shapiro STEM Academy Equity Leadership Team; WSST PD Committee; WSST/DPI book club

Professional Organizations: WSST; WSELA; NSTA; NARST; AERA