Oak Ridge National Laboratory supports educators with professional learning, classroom resources, and direct connections to real-world research. These opportunities help teachers connect STEM instruction with authentic scientific work, introduce students to STEM careers, and strengthen students’ awareness of future education and workforce pathways.
Explore the opportunities below to find professional learning, classroom support, and resources that can strengthen STEM instruction and student engagement.
Professional Learning for Educators
Teacher Summer Institute
The ORNL Teacher Summer Institute is a four-week externship that immerses high school STEM educators in research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Participants work alongside ORNL research and technical staff, engage in hands-on learning, tour laboratory facilities, and participate in collaborative professional development. The experience helps educators connect real-world research with meaningful STEM learning in their classrooms.
Appalachian STEM Academy
Appalachian STEM Academy provides STEM teachers from the Appalachian Region with a hands-on research experience at ORNL alongside participating high school students.
Participants engage with ORNL scientists and engineers while exploring research, teamwork, STEM career pathways, and opportunities to connect laboratory science with STEM learning.
Professional Development Days
ORNL professional development opportunities connect educators with laboratory research, STEM professionals, and practical approaches for bringing real-world science into the classroom.
Information about upcoming workshops and educator events will be posted as opportunities become available.
Bring ORNL Into Your Classroom
Classroom Speakers
Connect K–12 students with ORNL scientists and research staff through virtual or in-person classroom visits. Students can learn directly from STEM professionals, ask questions about their work, and explore connections between classroom learning, scientific research, and STEM careers.
Presentations can be tailored to complement your class’s area of study.
STEM Outreach Events
Bring ORNL scientists, engineers, and STEM professionals to your school through STEM nights, career fairs, and other educational events. ORNL participants share their expertise, introduce students to STEM careers, and help connect classroom learning with real-world science and technology.
Schools interested in requesting ORNL participation can submit an event request for consideration.
Special STEM Weeks
ORNL scientists visit schools during Hour of Code in Connect students with ORNL scientists and STEM professionals during special outreach programs throughout the school year. ORNL participates in Hour of Code in December and Engineers Week in February with classroom activities designed to introduce students to STEM concepts and careers.
Participation information will be posted as opportunities become available. and Engineers Week in February to lead hands-on STEM activities and introduce students to STEM careers.
Have questions? Contact the ORNL K–12 Education team at [email protected].