The program is part of a five-year National Science Foundation grant called Biotechnology Integration Opportunities for Teacher Education and Content (BIOTEC). This grant partners TGen with the College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, the College of Education at Northern Arizona University to enhance inquiry-based science teaching in Grades 5, 7 and 9. The program also expands the interdisciplinary preparation of graduate students in biotechnology.

The week’s workshop is designed to update teachers and fellows about genomic science, the effort to find the genetic basis of various diseases and disorders. The workshop also provides information about the ethical, legal and social implications of genomics, as well as emphasizes careers and research skills.

Here is what some of the participants said about the program:

"We thought it was a great opportunity to get our outstanding grad students into the classroom and improve their communication skills. It... allows for people to see what we are doing in the field of science and the talent of our grad students." – Dr. Catherine Ueckert, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University’s Center for Science Teaching and Learning.

"Biotech is a quickly changing field, so I am involved in this training to stay current for my students. It is great to have someone young (graduate students come and teach) in the classroom. The kids love them!" – Mindy Bell, a teacher for 25 years who now teaches Biology, Chemistry and Advanced Placement Biology for students in Grades 9-12 at Flagstaff Arts and Leadership Academy.

"To work with a fellow in the classroom is amazing. They bring real science into the classroom and it is a huge benefit to the students. I also truly enjoy the ‘team teaching’ aspect of the program. I am glad that the training is at TGen. I want to encourage students to apply, and it is helpful to say that I have been there, this is what it is, and motivate the students to participate." – Michele Corcoran, a teacher for 15 years who now teaches Biology for students in Grades 9-12 at Coconino High School in Flagstaff.

"Coming to TGen has been meaningful and beneficial to me as a teacher. It is eye-opening for me to see real science outside of the classroom." – Rick Treadway, a teacher for 11 years who now teaches Math and Science for students in Grades 7-8 at Flagstaff Middle School.