Western North Carolina
Elementary STEM Community of Practice
A Western Carolina University initiative to connect Western North Carolina elementary science and STEM educators through collaborative discussions and activities focused on improving K-6 STEM education in our region.
A Western Carolina University initiative to connect Western North Carolina elementary science and STEM educators through collaborative discussions and activities focused on improving K-6 STEM education in our region.
Collaborate. Problem solve. Innovate. Advocate.
Our Vision
Connect people passionate about elementary STEM education in WNC
Strengthen elementary STEM teaching and learning in WNC
Learn from and with each other
Create sustained partnerships that organically grow
Excited for 2026–27
We are excited to begin a new chapter for the WNC Elementary Science/STEM Community of Practice with our 2026–27 Teacher Leadership Cohort. This group brings together passionate elementary educators from across Western North Carolina to learn with and from one another, strengthen their own science practice, and grow their influence as teacher leaders.
This year, our work will center on two priorities: student sensemaking and advocacy for elementary science. Together, we will explore how to create classrooms where students are doing the thinking, questioning, investigating, and figuring out—and how teacher leaders can help ensure elementary science has the time, attention, and support it deserves.
A highlight of the year will be our in-person professional learning day on April 28 at the Lake Logan Conference Center, where cohort members, WNC educators, and community partners will come together for a full day of learning, collaboration, and connection.
There is a lot to look forward to in 2026–27, and we are especially excited to see the ripple effect this group of teacher leaders creates across Western North Carolina.
Follow this website and join our contact list to stay up-to-date on these events.
Our Advisory Board
Patricia Bricker, Western Carolina University
Wes Davis, Open Way Learning
Leah Downing, Hazelwood Elementary
Amanda Hall, Jackson County Schools
Jennifer Love, Macon County Schools
Kristin Menickelli, Cullowhee Valley School
Morgan Pittman, NC School of Science & Math-Morganton
Liza Webster, Buncombe County Schools
Kate Whittier, Buncombe County Schools
Recent Posts
January 2025 Virtual Gathering: Eco-Explorers
Our next WNC Elementary STEM Community of Practice virtual gathering will take place on January 21st from 4:00-5:00pm on Zoom. After a brief introduction, our highlight will focus on Eco-Explorers: Diving Into Hellbender Conservation and will be led by Tammy Kiser, a...
November 2024 Virtual Gathering: Engaging in SEPs at Beginning of the Year
Our November 2024 WNC Elementary STEM Community of Practice virtual gathering will take place on November 12th from 4:00-5:00pm on Zoom. After a brief introduction, our highlight will focus on Engaging in Science & Engineering Practices at the Beginning of the...
October Virtual Gathering–Canceled Due to Hurricane Helene
Our October 2024 WNC Elementary STEM Community of Practice virtual gathering will take place on October 8th from 4:00-5:00pm on Zoom. After a brief introduction, our highlight will focus on Building a Community of Scientists through a 4th grade example and will be...
September Virtual Gathering: Phenomenon Based Learning and the New NC Science Standards
Our September 2024 WNC Elementary STEM Community of Practice virtual gathering will take place on September 10th from 4:00-5:00pm on Zoom. After a brief introduction, our highlight will focus on Phenomenon Based Learning and the New North Carolina Science Standards...
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Contact Us
Dr. Patricia Bricker
Western Carolina University
School of Teaching and Learning
91 Killian Building Lane, Killian 101
Cullowhee, NC 28723