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Join the ASTER Community

Bringing science educator and STEM research communities together

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About ASTER

ASTER is a community-focused organization committed to empowering educators to engage with and in scientific research communities. Our mission is to understand and support the learning needs of educators and scientists who share a common interest in advancing science teacher participation in science research experiences. 

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​​​​We are currently in phase 1 of our organizational development plan (2026). Please join us in growing the organization!

                                                                  ~ Amanda Morrison, PhD

                                                                     Founder, ASTER

Current and Upcoming RET Programs

Learn how participating in an RET program

has impacted educators and students

Our Initiatives and Services

Educator Voices Initiative (Coming Soon)

We want to hear what science educators think and how they feel about participating in science-focused Research Experience for Teachers (RET) programs! Results will be shared on our website.

 

Here are two ways to contribute:

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Option A: Participate in our Educator Voices Survey to share your perceptions of RET programs.

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Option B: Participate in RET Reflections to share your experience as a former RET program participant.

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RET Support 

WEBINARS

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Introduction to RET Programs for Educators

Participate in one of our monthly virtual information

sessions exploring:

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  • What an RET program is

  • How to find an opportunity that fits your needs

  • When and how to apply

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Dates: TBD

Time: 7:00pm Eastern

Duration: 30 minutes

Scientist Voices Initiative (Coming Soon)

We want to hear what scientists think and how they feel about participating in science-focused Research Experience for Teachers (RET) programs. Results will be be shared on our website.

 

Option A: ​Participate in our Research Mentor Voices Survey to share your experience as a research mentor in a RET program.

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Option B: Participate in our Building A Sustainable RET Program Survey to share your thoughts regarding the facilitation and implementation of RET programs through your institution/organization.

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Volunteer Opportunities (Coming Soon)

Volunteer as an RET Mentor to help guide incoming and current RET participants seeking support. Mentors must be K-12 educators that have already completed at least one RET program.

RET MENTORING (Coming Soon)

 

Sign up to be paired with and receive one-on-one RET mentoring by educators who have already participated

in a RET program.  

​Past Events

  • RET Participation Oral Session
    RET Participation Oral Session
    July 26-31, 2026
    Salt Palace Convention Center
    July 26-31, 2026
    Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 S W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
    "Secondary science teachers' participation in research experience for teachers programs: an exploration of intersectional social identity salience"
  • RET Workshop at Ecological Society of America's Annual Conference
    RET Workshop at Ecological Society of America's Annual Conference
    July 26-31, 2026
    July 26-31, 2026
    Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 S W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
    "Preparing the STEM Workforce of the Future: How an RET Network can advance and sustain K-12 teachers to prepare students for next generation STEM careers."

Connect, Grow, and Thrive

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