Maryland Association of Science Teachers

Overview

The Maryland Association of Science Teachers (MAST) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing science education across the state of Maryland. MAST serves as the Maryland state chapter of the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and aims to make science accessible and enjoyable for citizens of Maryland.

Mission

The mission of MAST is to foster excellence in science teaching and learning, ensuring that science education is both accessible and engaging for all students. This includes providing opportunities for professional development, advocating for science education policies, and facilitating collaboration among science educators.

Position Statements

MAST aligns with positions of other prominent science education organizations, such as the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), emphasizing the importance of teaching scientific concepts like evolution in public schools. Evolution is recognized as a cornerstone concept in science education, supported by extensive scientific evidence and integral to understanding the natural world.

Activities

MAST offers various benefits to its members, including:

• Professional Development Opportunities: MAST provides discounted registration for its annual conferences and professional development programs.
• Networking and Collaboration: Members can engage in regional networking events, sharing best practices in science education.
• Grants and Resources: Access to grant opportunities for classroom materials and projects is available to members.
• Leadership Engagement: Members can serve on committees or the board of directors to influence the future of science education in Maryland.

MAST plays a significant role in supporting initiatives that enhance science education, such as local environmental projects funded by Coronavirus relief funds. For instance, Queen Anne's County has used such funding to establish outdoor classrooms, promoting hands-on learning in environmental science.