Educator Resources

SMART FIRES supports K–12 and informal educators with curriculum, activities, professional development, and tools related to fire science, prescribed fire, sensors, and environmental monitoring.

These materials are based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation EPSCoR RII Track-1 Program under Award No. OIA-2242802.

STEM Summer Institute

August 3-5, 2026

Montana State University-Bozeman

  

This event brings educators together for three days of hands‑on professional learning designed to deepen STEM knowledge, strengthen classroom practice, and spark fresh instructional ideas. Participants engage in keynote sessions, interactive workshops, and networking with peers and exhibitors, all focused on supporting high‑quality K–12 STEM education. SMART FIRES is serving as a Gold Sponsor this year, so look for us at the Welcome Reception and throughout the conference.

Stay updated

SMART FIRES (quarterly)

Project updates for SMART FIRES researchers and beyond, highlighting current research, news, and occasional educator PD or resources. See archives

Brainstorms! (monthly)

Educator‑focused, featuring STEM classroom resources, curricula and kits, professional development opportunities, grants, and interesting articles for K–12 and beyond.
See archives

MT Citizen Science Network (semesterly)

For anyone interested in STEM‑related citizen science, offering activities, tools, and opportunities for classrooms, community programs, and the public. See archives

External Resources

Fire Smoke: Sources & Impacts

Fire on the Land Curriculum

SciStarter.org: Find Citizen Science Projects Near You

FireWorks Curriculum (USFS)

Fire Smoke: Sources & Impacts

Fire Smoke: Sources & Impacts

ArcGIS Story Map by Jennifer Taylor covering air quality, human health, and fire smoke