K-12 STEM education

And there's plenty of mystery at Sanford Lab. Nearly a mile underground scientists explore fundamental mysteries about our universe, search for extreme lifeforms and deepen their knowledge of the earth. In partnership with Black Hills State University, Sanford Lab’s science education specialists take that world-leading science into classrooms with hands-on curriculum units that feature dark matter, neutrinos, geology and biology. The curriculum units, developed by our Education and Outreach team, include 10-20 hours of classroom instruction and everything a teacher needs to challenge students and encourage them to consider careers in STEM fields. Each unit addresses the South Dakota Science Standards.

Excitement is contagious. When teachers are passionate about a subject, they pass that excitement along to their students. Our education specialists help transform the teaching of K-12 science in South Dakota through professional development workshops that directly connect teachers to the innovative science at Sanford Lab. Teachers then bring these real-world, place-based educational experiences into the classroom, inspiring the next generation of scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians. 

Recently, E&O’s efforts were recognized when the team received the 2017 Friend of Science Award from the South Dakota Science Teachers Association. The award is given annually to organizations that help facilitate the efforts of regional science educators and their students in enhancing science literacy.  “Through their work in developing hands-on lessons, the Sanford Lab education team has helped improved classroom teaching and learning,” said Liz McMillan, president of the association. “Many of our students and future scientists are more interested in science and research because of the opportunities and experiences provided by and at the Sanford Underground Research Facility.”