The Climate & Coastal Research Initiative (CCRI) Teacher Fellowship is a grant-funded, WCS-led summer research opportunity for New York City elementary school teachers in Brooklyn and Queens.
In this fellowship, you will design and conduct your own science research project in NYC’s coastal communities and engage in reflective practice around bringing hands-on science and research opportunities to young learners. This fellowship aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and classroom learning, benefiting both you and your students.

You will receive a stipend to support your time and travel, as well as a research supplies budget. Each teacher will receive a $500 stipend for participation in this program. Each teacher will also receive $800 worth of research materials to use for their projects and in their classrooms. You can earn 40+ CTLE hours for your time. The program culminates in a public presentation where you will share your findings and discuss how you plan to bring hands-on science and research practices back to your classroom. We are looking to accept eight teacher fellows for this year’s CCRI cohort.

APPLY NOW!

Applications are due by April 30, 2026.
All teacher fellowship questions can be directed to: teacherinfo@wcs.org

Program Components:

• Five-day intensive (July 6–10, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM at the NY Aquarium):
  You will meet as a cohort to learn research methods, tools, and local coastal initiatives. You will hear from WCS scientists and community leaders about current research priorities and explore strategies with WCS educators for bringing hands-on science into your classroom. By the end of the week, you will identify your research project. Lunch provided every day of the workshop.
• CITI training:
  You will complete the online Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) certification to ensure ethical research practices when working with human subjects.
• Independent research:
  You will conduct your research project over the summer on your own schedule using equipment provided by WCS. You will document data collection, findings, and reflections in a field journal, providing evidence of your scientific learning and pedagogical growth. Your journal will also support Continuing Teacher & Leader Education (CTLE) hours. Earn 40+ CTLE hours for the fellowship.
• Check-ins and support:
  You will participate in two one-hour cohort check-ins and two to four 30-minute individual check-ins with your WCS team leader for coaching and progress support.
• Final symposium (August 13 at the NY Aquarium):
  You will present your research experience and share plans for integrating research-based, hands-on science into your classroom.