Manomet Conservation Sciences is thrilled to announce that the Wade Institute for Science Education has officially joined our organization. This exciting partnership brings together two leaders in science education and conservation—and marks a major step forward in our commitment to inspiring and empowering the next generation of environmental stewards.

At Manomet, education has always been a critical foundation for our work. We believe that environmental stewardship grows when people feel connected to nature and empowered to make a difference. For decades, we have used science-based education to inspire students, teachers, early career scientists, and communities across the Western Hemisphere. By bringing the Wade Institute under our umbrella, we are amplifying that impact.

From Trailblazing Origins…

Founded by trailblazer Emily Vanderbilt “Paddy” Wade, the Wade Institute has a long and proud history of providing hands-on, minds-on professional development for K–12 teachers and informal educators. Their programs equip educators with the tools to bring real-world science into the classroom—igniting curiosity and building a foundation for lifelong environmental stewardship.

“This is an incredible moment for both Manomet and the Wade Institute,” said Elizabeth Schueler, President of Manomet Conservation Sciences. “By bringing our work together, we are expanding access to science education and creating even more opportunities for educators and students to engage with real-world conservation and STEM learning. By combining our strengths, we’re giving more students and teachers the tools to explore, understand, and protect the natural world—creating a future where communities, wildlife, and ecosystems can all thrive together.”

“I’m honored to carry forward Paddy Wade’s legacy under Manomet’s leadership,” said Kathryn Atkins, the new Director of the Wade Institute. “Our work together will not only strengthen science teaching in classrooms, but also help young people build a lifelong love of learning, inquiry, and stewardship. There’s no better time to invest in science education—and no better way to make a lasting difference for the future of our planet.”

…To a Future of Star Environmental Stewards 

Together, Manomet and the Wade Institute will expand our programs for students, create more opportunities for youth leadership, and provide top-tier professional development experiences for educators. This partnership also positions Manomet to deliver on our broader strategic vision for education, empowering environmental stewards and conservation allies at every stage—from young students to career professionals.

“Education and conservation are two sides of the same coin,” added Dr. Molly Jacobs, Vice President of Environmental Education and Outreach at Manomet. “By empowering teachers and students, we are building a future where science drives real change, communities feel connected to the natural world, and solutions to environmental challenges come from everywhere. The Wade Institute’s incredible legacy gives us a powerful new way to scale that vision.”

Summer Workshops: What’s on Tap for Teachers and Administrators 

This summer, the Wade Institute for Science Education at Manomet Conservation Sciences is offering exciting opportunities for teachers to dive into hands-on, inquiry-based learning through our 2025 Summer Professional Development Institutes. These immersive week-long programs connect educators with scientists, engineers, and other professionals to explore STEM topics through real-world experiences and field-based investigations. Designed for grades K–12 educators, each Institute meets the continuing education requirements of teachers by offering Professional Development Points (PDPs) and optional graduate credit. Whether it’s exploring coastal ecosystems, investigating renewable energy, or studying watershed dynamics, teachers will return to their classrooms energized with new strategies to bring authentic science learning to their students. 

And: workshop locations are scenic and fun! Collaborating partners (and locations) for upcoming institutes New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill; Harvard Forest, Lloyd Center for the Environment; New Bedford Whaling Museum; Marine Biological Laboratory; the Massachusetts Science and Engineering Fair; and Manomet Headquarters in Plymouth, Massachusetts. 

In addition to the multi-day Institutes, we are also hosting a Focus Workshop. These shorter workshops allow teachers to zoom in on specific STEM topics and gain fresh resources, activities, and approaches for classroom instruction. Workshops cover topics like animal Adaptions and bioengineering, climate change education, integrating inquiry-based activities into lessons, and understanding local ecosystems. They’re a great way for teachers to strengthen their skills, make new professional connections, and take home ready-to-use materials—all while earning PDPs.

Spark Curiosity: Spread the Word 

Together with Manomet, the Wade Institute is building a future where education and conservation go hand in hand. Through these programs (and more, including OpenSciEd Professional Learning and customized professional learning services, among others), Wade is not only supporting teachers but also helping students across the region connect with science in more meaningful, engaging ways. Are you a K–12 educator looking to refresh your STEM teaching skills or a school leader aiming to expand learning opportunities? Wade’s programs offer something for everyone. Register today—or help us spread the word to a teacher you know! Visit wadeinstitutema.org to learn more and sign up.