Teacher Resources for Alabama Science Education
Like you, McWane Science Center strives to make science exciting and inspire exploration in each of the young minds that enter our doors. That’s why we do everything we can to partner with our state’s educators and share ideas. Explore our resources below for professional development workshops, curriculum planning, and more!
Celebrate Science
Celebrate Science is a year-long exhibit design competition for 3rd-5th grade students focusing on developing skills in engineering design, teamwork, and creativity. Students will work together to identify a STEM concept they find interesting and, based on that concept, design and build a prototype of an exhibit that would fit in at the McWane Science Center!
This experience includes:
- 2 free field trips* (one in the fall and an award ceremony in the spring). *Transportation not included.
- 1 free McWane on the Move outreach to your school
- A $250 stipend to aid in building the final prototype
- Cash prizes for winning groups to be used in the classroom
| 1st Place – $2000 | 2nd Place – $1500 | 3rd Place – $1000 | President’s Award – $500 | McWaniac Award – $500 |
Applicant Guidelines:
- Applicants may enter a classroom or mixed class (such as a club or team)
- Maximum group size: 30 students
- Only one group per school will be accepted
- Award’s Day will be held at McWane Science Center on Tuesday, Apr. 27, 2027
Applications are now open! The final date to apply is August 28, 2026.
For questions or more information e-mail [email protected].
Educator Advisory Committee
Help shape STEM learning at McWane! Our Educator Advisory Committee creates space for educator voices to:
- Guide curriculum development
- Test new ideas and resources
- Advise on standards alignment
- Identify access barriers schools face
- Serve as ambassadors for McWane within their districts and networks
Teachers will receive one free McWane on the Move classroom program and a one-year family membership to McWane Science Center.
Want to lend your voice?
Applications for the 2026-2027 season are now open! If you’re interested in joining the Educator Advisory Committee for the 2026-2027 school year, please fill out the form. The deadline to register is September 25, 2026.
The Educator Advisory Committee is open to all classroom teachers, PreK to 12th grade, college professors, informal educators with teaching experience, and community representatives working directly with children ages 0-18.
Education Guide
We’ve compiled an up-to-date guide on all the educational resources available at McWane Science Center. Use this guide to help you plan your next field trip and become our partner in changing lives through science and wonder.
E-Verify Affidavit
If your school or organization requires a copy of this form, you can download a certified copy of McWane Science Center’s Affidavit and Memorandum of Understanding for E-Verify.
