The use of live organisms in classrooms is a valued tool for engaging students. However, it is not wise for a class to release organisms into the wild or for teachers to allow students to take organisms home as pets (if they are later released). These organisms are often distributed to teachers through biological supply houses, frequently with widely-used science curriculum packages. Sometimes these plants and animals are documented invasive species.

In an ongoing national project, funded through NOAA-National Sea Grant, IISG is working with Sea Grant programs around the country as well as several Canadian entities to address this AIS pathway from two fronts—in classrooms and through supply houses.

At the recent National Science Teacher Association meeting in San Francisco, project leaders talked with teachers about how they can help prevent the spread of invasive species using an exhibit titled “Don’t Release Classroom Organisms! They Can Become Invasive Species.” The exhibit was coordinated by Sam Chan and Tania Siemens of Oregon Sea Grant.

In the top photo, Linda Chilton (on left), Oregon Sea Grant, shares classroom resources that will help students understand this issue. IISG’s Pat Charlebois (bottom photo, on right), along with Robin Goettel, helped develop the exhibit.

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Four science educators from Illinois and Indiana have been selected for the 2025 Shipboard Science Immersion on Lake Michigan July 7-13. The educators will spend a full week alongside researchers aboard the EPA research vessel Lake Guardian. Afterwards, they will bring Great Lakes science back to their classroom. Learn more and meet the four incredible teachers representing Illinois and Indiana at the link in bio.
🌿 Educators—Explore Restoration in Action! Join us Thursday, July 31 at Purdue Northwest (Hammond, IN) for a FREE full-day workshop diving into the transformation of the Grand Calumet River Area of Concern.🚍 Tour restored sites🧠 Engage with VR curriculum📚 Earn 6 PD hours🥐 Breakfast & lunch included🔗 Register now at the link in bio and bring real-world science to your classroom.Register by July 21st.
Attention STEM educators! Our new aquaponics curriculum is here! Designed for 9-12th grade classrooms with operating aquaponics systems, this curriculum, created by educators for educators, teaches STEM concepts through the lens of aquaponics, aligning with NGSS and Great Lakes Literacy Principles. Learn more at the link in bio.
Big news from Illinois‑Indiana Sea Grant! We’re thrilled to announce Dr. Stuart Carlton, our Assistant Director since 2018, will step into the Director role on July 14, 2025. Join us in congratulating Stuart, and read on at the link in bio to find out more about the transition!
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