GeoEd
Geoscience Education Workshop for Kansas Educators
Are you a K–12 science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) educator interested in strengthening your understanding of Kansas geology and providing engaging, real-world geoscience concepts in your classroom? Join us for three engaging days in western Kansas where KGS scientists will provide hands-on learning about geology. You’ll also get take-home materials and lesson plans designed to meet Next Generation Science Standards.
Course Overview
GeoEd is an immersive three-day professional development workshop for K-12 STEM educators hosted by the Kansas Geological Survey. The workshop is designed to deepen educators’ understanding of Kansas geology and geoscience concepts through hands-on learning, field experiences, and direct interaction with scientists—including working paleontologists, professional geologists, and geophysicists.
Throughout the workshop, participants will explore geologic concepts through a place-based lens while learning about geologic history in western Kansas, where 85-million-year-old strata can be viewed at Earth’s surface. Participants will get a thorough introduction to geology, paleontology, and hydrology plus a crash course on mineral and rock identification.
The workshop combines current scientific research with practical classroom applications, giving educators opportunities to learn alongside experts while experiencing activities they can adapt for their students. By the end of the program, participants will leave with a deeper understanding of Kansas geology, lesson plans and activities aligned with Next Generation Science Standards, and a network of colleagues committed to earth science education.
All participant expenses—including lodging, meals, and mileage reimbursement—are covered through local sponsorships. Participants also earn professional development points upon successful completion of the workshop.
Who Should Apply
GeoEd is open to K-12 STEM educators who are interested in bringing meaningful, place-based earth science education into their Kansas classrooms. Whether participants teach earth science, geology, chemistry, environmental science, agriculture, biology, or an interdisciplinary STEM curriculum, this workshop provides practical tools and experiences that can be adapted for students across grade levels.
Educators from across Kansas are encouraged to apply. Because enrollment is limited to 12 participants, applications will be reviewed to create a diverse cohort representing a variety of grade levels, subject areas, and geographic regions.
What to Expect
GeoEd blends professional development with immersive, hands-on experiences that bring Kansas geology to life. Participants will alternate between lectures, collaborative discussions, interactive activities, and field lessons designed to connect scientific concepts with place-based experiences. Participants should expect to spend time both indoors and in the field.
Professional Development
Participants who successfully complete GeoEd will receive free professional development points recognizing their participation in the workshop through our partnership with Jayhawk Global.