Balancing Acts Summer Institute Strengthens STEM Teaching Across New Jersey
The Institute brought together elementary and middle school science and math teachers from across the state for an intensive week of professional learning
Posted in: Teachers
The New Jersey STEM Innovation Fellowship, offered by PRISM (Professional Resources in Science and Mathematics) at Montclair State University, held the Balancing Acts Summer Institute this August. The Balancing Acts program, created and co-led by Montclair mathematics professors Dr. Steven Greenstein and Dr. Nicole Panorkou, engages teachers in exploring the powerful connections between mathematics and science through the concept of balance. Using hands-on activities and carefully designed classroom models, teachers learn to help their students deepen conceptual understanding of equality, equations, and scientific reasoning.
During the summer institute, teachers in their second year of the program collaborated with Montclair doctoral students and faculty mentors to design and refine lesson plans that integrate the Balancing Acts pedagogy into real classroom practice. They engaged in interdisciplinary teamwork, tested activities, and shared strategies for making abstract ideas accessible and engaging for their students.
The institute also serves as the launch of a yearlong Community of Practice. Throughout the school year, participating teachers will meet monthly to continue developing, implementing, and refining Balancing Acts lessons. These ongoing collaborations ensure that the professional learning begun in the summer translates into lasting change in classrooms across New Jersey.
Offered through the New Jersey STEM Innovation Fellowship under PRISM, the Balancing Acts program represents the commitment of Montclair State University to advancing STEM education by supporting teacher leadership, strengthening instructional practices, and building a statewide network of educators dedicated to innovation.