Participating teachers will engage in a two-week summer institute, collaborating with middle school STEM educators from different schools, districts, and regions across Texas. During this summer institute, teachers will be exposed to the latest STEM education curriculum and teaching methodologies. Teachers will gain content knowledge related to gaps in their STEM knowledge, STEM pedagogical practices, problem-based learning, and scientific and engineering principles. Additionally, they will tour laboratory facilities, benefit from the expertise of Texas A&M professionals, and explore various STEM career opportunities.
 
With travel reimbursement, food and lodging accommodations, Aggie STELLAR participants will travel to the Texas A&M University campus in College Station for the intensive two-week institute.
 
Teachers will be receiving a summer stipend for participating in Aggie STELLAR. It is important to note that the Aggie STELLAR program requires mandatory attendance for these two weeks. Attendance for each day is linked to the stipend.

Teachers will attend monthly follow-up meetings, primarily held in their region, except for one meeting in both the fall and spring, which will be held in College Station. During these meetings, teachers will require substitutes and these days should be considered professional development days rather than personal days.
 
Aggie STELLAR will reimburse the substitute costs to the school district.
 
Every month, teachers will be required to submit specific deliverables, which will be detailed for them. Further details will be available on the online community page. Teachers will also have the chance to select a conference they wish to attend.  

Aggie STELLAR will reimburse the campus for the substitute pay for these days (as well as other conference related expenses).  Attending these conferences is an excellent opportunity for teachers to acquire valuable knowledge to bring back to their classrooms.

Aggie STELLAR is committed to supporting our teachers’ growth and learning. Participating teachers will be enrolled in online STEM graduate coursework led by Texas A&M faculty. The series of 4 courses involves assignments, readings and assessments. At the completion of the program, teachers earn a graduate certificate in STEM Education. Teachers have the option to pursue a Master of Education in STEM Education by continuing their studies after the complete these 12 hours.
 
It is essential for Aggie STELLAR teachers to successfully complete their courses with awareness of the time commitment and rigor required.  A minimum GPA of 3.0 is REQUIRED to remain in the graduate program and receive the certificate in STEM Education. For any participant wishing to continue with their graduate studies, a 3.0 in graduate coursework is a requirement for degree seeking admission.
 
NOTE: There is a separate application process for the graduate certificate program. Aggie STELLAR will assist you in completing this process.

The Aggie STELLAR  online community provides networking and support from from like-minded individuals all striving for classroom success. Participants are required to participate in an online community of shared resources and collaboration through a shared Google Drive and Canvas course. Additionally, they maintain regular communication with all Aggie STELLAR educators via GroupMe.  

Teachers will be required to upload specific deliverables to the shared drive and Canvas course which may include: 

• Discussion posts

• Informative articles

• Campus initiatives

• Outreach programs

• Grant opportunities

• Lesson plans

Teachers are required to upload these documents as part of their participation in the program. Our goal is to nurture an online community where everyone can contribute their knowledge, practices, and lesson plans to facilitate mutual learning.