Kids learn by doing, and in science, hands-on learning turns curiosity into understanding. It sparks critical thinking, strengthens problem-solving skills, and lays a foundation for lifelong learning. This is the power of FOSS PreK-8 curriculum, science grounded in investigation and student-led discovery.
Of course, curious minds need safe boundaries, and hands-on learning requires responsibility. From pre-lab prep and proper PPE to safe storage and classroom readiness, safety in science class is essential to protect students and teachers.
Keep reading to learn more about FOSS and how to keep hands-on science safe.
Here’s what you’ll find this month:
Hot Topics in Science — Fostering Safe Hands‐On Science Environments
Watch the recorded EdWeb Webinar
Ideas and Inspirations Blog Post — How to Create Engaging and Effective STEAM Learning Environments
FOSS® Pathways™ Sampler
Activity Download
New Episode “It’s Time for Science” Podcast
FOSSWeb on ThinkLink User Updates
Pre-Recorded Webinars
Hot Topics in Science
Hands-On Active Investigations
Every student deserves the benefits of science education—not just exposure to scientific phenomena, but the opportunity to understand and explain them. From its foundations, FOSS® provides this for all, regardless of background, culture, language, or ability.
Presented by Leslie Lausten, Former Teacher, Current Professional Learning Specialist, East Coast, School Specialty
A critical component of any science lesson is for students to make sense of their experiences and connect back to the standards of learning. Join us as we learn more about this meaningful process called sensemaking.
Discover how to design flexible, hands-on STEAM learning spaces that spark curiosity, promote collaboration, and support real-world problem solving. Get tips on tools, layouts, and strategies to boost student engagement. Read More ››
Explore one of our exciting samplers and discover how FOSS Pathways can transform your lessons, plus, check out our new releases. Explore this month’s spotlight sampler: Grade K – Animals Two by Two.
It’s Time for Science, and it’s time to discuss fostering safer, hands-on science environments! In this month’s podcast, Tom talks to safety expert Dr. Kenneth R. Roy (Director of Environmental Health & Safety for Glastonbury Public Schools in Connecticut) and 2025 Paul DeHart Hurd Award winner Kenneth L. Huff!
Attention Administrators
End of year emails will be sent out automatically from ThinkLink regarding the end of the school year. These emails are sent out 60 days from your districts end date. Please keep a look out for this important email that includes valuable information from your ThInkLink team.
Did You Know
Each course has a Safety Poster. They can be found under Module Resources > Materials and Equipment Cards > Posters and Card Sets – Be sure to log in to ThinkLink today to download your Safety Poster for your science classroom!
The ThinkLink Support Team is available to walk you through any technical or usability questions you may encounter on the ThinkLink platform. They are available via e-mail or by phone: 800–258–1302, option 3, Monday through Friday 8am–7:30pm ET. Contact the ThinkLink Support Team.
Events Coming Soon!
Learn about our events, webinars, and professional development opportunities. Learn more here!
ThinkLink Support: Onboarding and Back to School Refresher (recorded video of past webinar) 1-hour Online Webinar
This FREE 1-hour webinar is for teachers and administrators who are new to ThinkLink or would like a review of navigation and frequently used features.
Science and Literacy Integration: The Science Classroom Meets the Science of Reading (recorded video of past webinar) 1-hour Online Webinar
In this edWeb Webinar, we shared how using rich, inquiry-based learning will not only build science knowledge but also show the skills needed to increase language comprehension using Scarborough's Reading Rope.
Looking to optimize your budget? Shop our FOSS Science refills and equipment and keep your kits in like-new condition with materials guaranteed to work with your modules.
Our online Science Refill Center is open 24/7. It's fast, easy, and convenient.
Looking to redeem your Living Materials Cards? Click Here ››
Are you currently using FOSS 3rd Edition?
Take advantage of the final opportunity to stock up on FOSS 3rd Edition products before they are phased out. FOSS 3E kits, replacement parts and print materials will only be available until December 31, 2025. School Specialty will no longer sell or support FOSS 3E products after that date. Digital access and support for FOSS 3E that is currently available on ThinkLink will end December 31, 2026. We encourage you to replenish your inventory now while supplies last.
Contact Us Today to order your FOSS 3rd Edition products or speak to a FOSS Specialist about conversion options.
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