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Hands-on Learning. Real Science. Real Opportunities.

The Science & Materials Innovation Academy is a free summer program for middle school students and educators at BGSU Firelands.

Students learn by doing. Teachers gain tools they can use in the classroom.

What students will do:

• Conduct experiments in college labs
• Explore materials science and sustainability
• Participate in engineering challenges
• Meet professionals working in STEM careers

Why materials science

Materials science helps us understand how things are made and how they work.

Students will explore everyday materials and learn how they are used to solve real-world problems.

Why this program:

• Free access for families
• Hands-on learning experience
• Exposure to college environment
• Connection to real careers

Accepted Participants

Please keep an eye on your email and check your spam or junk folder for messages related to your application. We may reach out if information is missing or incomplete.

Acceptance emails will be sent on or before May 29 for early decision and by June 12 for general decision, based on space availability.

July 8–10, 2026 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
BGSU Firelands
1 University Dr., Huron, Ohio
Science educators teaching grade 6, 7 and/or 8

Transform your middle school science curriculum through a dynamic, multi-session professional development program. This collaboration between NPESC, BGSU Firelands, and two middle school teachers is designed to build your confidence and content knowledge in the fascinating world of Materials Science.

Why Join the Institute?

• We know your time is valuable. This program gives you the framework, resources, and support to bring high-level science to your students immediately.
• Ready-to-Go Curriculum: Gain access to lesson plans and modules already mapped to middle school state standards.
• Hands-On Lab Experience: Test experiments in BGSU Firelands laboratory spaces. You’ll have the freedom to modify procedures and redesign assessments to fit your specific classroom needs.
• Fully Equipped Kits: Every participant receives classroom kits packed with the materials needed to launch hands-on activities with your students.
• CEUs and Stipend: Earn your CEUs while you learn—CEUs will be provided by NPESC upon completion of the program. Participants are eligible for a $250 teacher stipend on attending for their time spent in training, in addition to receiving classroom materials and CEUs.

Whether you are a seasoned educator or brand new to Materials Science, this workshop provides the structured support to grow your STEM pedagogical competence.

Invest in the way you teach. Inspire the students in your class. Help build the future of science.

Registration Includes: Lunches, materials for experiments, access to lesson plans and opportunity to work in the laboratory space at BGSU Firelands.

Camp Attire: To stay safe we request participants to come to the lab wearing closed-toe shoes and full-length pants, no sandals or shorts allowed.

Register now