David Kirk

Evolution should be an important part of a sound K-12 science curriculum For much of his career, Washington University biology professor David Kirk, PhD, focused his research on the spherical, multicellular green alga, Volvox carteri. Kirk, in collaboration with his late wife Marilyn M. Kirk, their students, and other fellow scientists had initially focused on […]

Safely observe solar eclipse with young children

St. Louis and the surrounding area is abuzz with excitement about the upcoming total solar eclipse, as well it should be. This very unique experience is not to be missed, if possible. There are online resources available for information and activities, such as from the St. Louis Astronomical Society and the St. Louis Eclipse 2017 Task […]

Going the distance: Student gliders soar at Washington University

“We’ve got a lot of bragging rights,” a jubilant Zack Hurley said. The senior from Calhoun High School in Hardin, Illinois, was part of a quartet that went the distance at the final flight of the Boeing Engineering Design Challenge, held May 3 in the Washington University Field House. Their glider, dubbed No Pain, No […]

ISP names new assistant director

With the expansion of many ISP initiatives, including MySci from a K-5 to a K-8 science curriculum program, the ISP has identified curriculum development and educator leadership as two key priority areas in the coming years. Ruggirello, who holds a PhD in Science & Math Education, brings a rich background in teacher leadership development and […]

Building a school culture of trust and respect

Rowhea Elmesky has a quiet presence. As the room around her buzzes with ideas and opinions, she listens quietly, gently nodding and allowing each statement to filter through her mind. It is as if she is checking each thought, carefully considering every perspective. It is only after this process that she speaks. Elmesky is an […]

Continuing education: for the love of learning

For three weeks this summer, 18 teachers from across the country came to Washington University in St. Louis to take the next step on the path towards excellence in teaching. The Institute for School Partnership (ISP) at Wash U offers teachers a specialized Master’s in Biology that caters specifically to the needs of educators. The participants […]

High school students gets hands-on view of engineering

More than 30 local high school juniors and seniors were on campus June 6 for the third annual Explore Engineering day, sponsored by the School of Engineering & Applied Science. The community outreach event allows students to work with WUSTL engineering faculty and students and get hands-on experience in engineering projects to promote critical thinking. […]