GEMS Leadership Opportunities
GEMS 2024 Near-Peer Mentor and Teacher applications are now open.
| MODULE | DESCRIPTION | ELIGIBILITY |
|---|---|---|
| Planetary GEMS | Investigation of geology, oceanography, and meteorology | 4th-5th graders |
| Neuroscience GEMS | Exploration of the five senses, brain, and neurological processes | 6th-7th graders |
Biochemistry GEMS |
Experimentation in chemistry, biology, and biochemistry | 8th-9th graders |
| Agriscience GEMS | Examination of the application of science to agriculture | 10th-11th graders |
Near-Peer Mentors
Download the Near-Peer Mentor flyer
Eligibility:
Students who are enrolled in the 11th or 12th grade or students who are currently enrolled in a STEM- or education-related college degree program are eligible to apply for the Near-Peer Mentor opportunity. Near-Peer Mentors are selected, via a competitive application and interview process, for their technical expertise, attitude, and teaching ability.
Please e-mail usarmy-usaarl-stem@health.mil if you would like to be added to the distribution list.
Application Requirements- A completed online application
- Academic transcripts
- Resume
Description:
Near-Peer Mentors are thoroughly trained in the conduct of the GEMS modules and in basic methods and practices of teaching. The Near-Peer Mentors teach the experiments to the students and serve as role models to the students by promoting science and math courses and by acting as expert resources concerning college life and career pathways. Near-Peer Mentors serve as role models for GEMS students and prepare materials for implementing STEM experiments. Candidates selected for program participation will undergo a security clearance/background investigation. Mentors earn an educational stipend.
Responsibilities:
Near-Peer Mentors are responsible for learning experiment protocols, preparing materials for the experiments, teaching experiments, implementing safety procedures, engaging and supervising students, mentoring students, maintaining ethical behavior, documenting the program through photography and film, and completing other assigned tasks.
Teachers
Eligibility:
The Teachers are typically certified elementary, junior high, or high school teachers with experience teaching STEM-related concepts and lessons. The Teachers are selected via a competitive interview process, for their technical expertise, attitude, and teaching and managerial skills.
Please e-mail usarmy-usaarl-stem@health.mil if you would like to be added to the distribution list.
Application Requirements- A completed online application
- Resume
Description:
The Teachers oversee the GEMS mentors who are eager to have a positive impact on the education and lives of GEMS students, teach STEM experiments to GEMS students who are motivated to learn, encourage GEMS students to pursue STEM-related careers, build a relationship with Department of Defense STEM professionals, and enhance their own STEM-related teaching skills. The selected candidates will undergo a security clearance/background investigation. The Teachers earn an educational stipend.
Responsibilities:
The Teachers are primarily responsible for implementing the GEMS program according to the curricula, training and overseeing the activities of the Near-Peer Mentors, providing to GEMS mentors and students guidance related to STEM experiments, preparing supplies and materials, managing the day-to-day operations of GEMS, ensuring the safety of GEMS students and mentors, and leading regular after action review meetings with staff. The Teachers are expected to be present for the duration of the GEMS modules for which they are selected.
USAARL GEMS Contact
USAARL GEMS Program Coordinator
usarmy-usaarl-stem@health.mil