The University of Iowa welcomed six high school physics teachers from across the state for the annual Iowa QuarkNet Center Professional Development Program held July 28-29. The two-day workshop provided educators with an opportunity to engage directly with particle physics research, collaborate with university scientists, and explore innovative ways to bring cutting-edge science into Iowa classrooms.

The program was led by Michael Kistler, physics teacher at Washington High School in Cedar Rapids, and Dr. Chris Like, Science Program Consultant with the Iowa Department of Education and longtime QuarkNet lead teacher. Together, they guided participants through hands-on activities, data analysis exercises, and discussions focused on strengthening STEM and physics education throughout Iowa.

The workshop was supported by University of Iowa physics faculty mentors Professor Yasar Onel and Professor Jane Nachtman, both internationally recognized particle physicists who have played vital roles in advancing physics research and science education. Their mentorship provided teachers with insight into current research developments and the real-world applications of particle physics.

"This program provides teachers with the opportunity to experience science as it is practiced by researchers," said Kistler. "By connecting classroom instruction with authentic scientific discovery, we can inspire students to think critically, ask questions, and explore STEM careers."

QuarkNet is a national educational program sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that supports science education by creating a nationwide network of teachers, physicists, and research institutions. The program offers educators firsthand experiences with current physics research while fostering long-term mentoring relationships with scientists at universities and national laboratories.

Dedicated to broadening participation in America's STEM workforce, QuarkNet engages teachers and students in contemporary particle physics research. The program is a partnership among Fermilab, the University of Notre Dame, and approximately 50 research centers across the United States, including the University of Iowa.

The Iowa QuarkNet Center represents a collaborative effort among the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and physics educators statewide. Through workshops, research experiences, and professional development opportunities, the center seeks to improve science education and create pathways for students to become involved in advanced scientific research.

During the July program, participants explored the methods scientists use to study the fundamental building blocks of matter and the forces that govern the universe. Teachers worked alongside peers and mentors to examine research data, develop classroom applications, and learn strategies for increasing student engagement in physics and other STEM disciplines.

The QuarkNet community is built on a shared commitment among educators, researchers, and scientific collaborations. Teachers gain valuable research experience and strengthen their classroom effectiveness within a network of professional peers. University physicists expand the educational impact of their research while fostering connections with local schools and communities. Experimental collaborations share their expertise and scientific data, while QuarkNet staff create opportunities that bridge the gap between classroom learning and frontier research.

For the six participating Iowa educators, the experience offered more than professional development. It created meaningful connections with fellow teachers and researchers while reinforcing a collective mission to prepare students for future opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Through the leadership of Michael Kistler and Dr. Chris Like, and the mentorship of Professors Yasar Onel and Jane Nachtman, the University of Iowa's QuarkNet program continues to strengthen physics education across the state. By connecting high school educators with world-class research and scientific expertise, the program helps ensure that Iowa students have access to inspiring, relevant, and engaging STEM learning experiences.

For more information about the Iowa QuarkNet Center, visit https://quarknet.org/group/iowa-quarknet-center.