The Mid-Atlantic Region Space Science Broker team assists space scientists in formulating education and public outreach projects for NASA missions or research projects. The team also helps space scientists connect with classroom teachers and educators at museums and other science education organizations. Let the team help you inspire the next generation of explorers "as only NASA can" by:

• Demonstrating how NASA space science research can support inquiry-based elementary, secondary, and college classroom activities.
• Showing how you can apply NASA space science research to address the content and skill requirements of the various national educational standards.

If you are a member of the space science community and are preparing a NASA Office of Space Science (OSS) education and public outreach (E/PO) proposal, follow these steps to prepare an E/PO segment:

1. Read the E/PO section of your NASA research announcement or announcement of opportunity and review the Office of Space Science Education and Public Outreach Guidelines
2. Prepare a list of questions you have.
3. Note: There are currently two versions of the NASA Research Award (NRS) Proposers Guidebook. Each NRA specifies which version to follow Check the 2004 NRA Proposer Guidebook carefully.
4. Review the the Explanatory Guide to the NASA Office of Space Science education and public outreach evaluation criteria (Link to Acrobat file).
5. Identify the broker(s) for your region and forum corresponding to the OSS theme of your research.
6. Contact the relevant broker(s) and forum with your questions. For those in the Mid-Atlantic Region (DC, DE, KY, MD, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV), the broker/facilitator is available to consult with you about the E/PO segment of your OSS proposal. Please fill out the E/PO request form to get the dialog started. A team member will respond to your request.
7. You might also want to browse:
   • The OSS E/PO strategy and implementation plans.
   • The science, math, and technology education standards.
   • Articles on E/PO and scientist involvement in E/PO.
   • The directory of prospective education partners.
   • MOSIE: the Menu of Opportunities for Scientists in Education.

The NASA Office of Space Science's IDEAS grant program offers startup funding for innovative education programs featuring collaboration between astronomers or space scientists and grades K-14 or informal science education professionals. Funding can be requested for up to $50,000. This award is offered on an annual basis. For more information and the call for proposals, visit http://ideas.stsci.edu, or e-mail ideas@stsci.edu.