Program Description: PWISTA (Putnam-Westchester Industry & Science Teacher Alliance)

The Putnam-Westchester Industry & Science Teacher (PWISTA) is an organization and professional network established in collaboration with the school districts of Putnam and Westchester Counties and local Teacher Centers. PWISTA is dedicated to advancing science education by strengthening connections between schools, higher education institutions, industry, and community partners.

PWISTA’s mission is to increase scientific knowledge and enhance classroom instruction by exposing science teachers and their students to modern scientific technologies and practices used in industrial and research laboratories.

Goals and Objectives

PWISTA is designed to:

Foster collaboration among local educational agencies and STEM education stakeholders to develop and implement effective professional development models aligned with the New York State P–12 Science Learning Standards.
Integrate science and engineering practices into:
- Pre-service STEM teacher and leader preparation programs, and
- Continuing professional development opportunities for in-service teachers and educational leaders.
Build capacity to strengthen science education and ensure career readiness by creating partnerships and alliances across sectors — including school districts, higher education institutions, science education organizations, business and industry, informal education programs, government agencies, and learning communities at the local, regional, state, national, and international levels.
Identify and empower science education stakeholders to lead the ongoing development and revitalization of science education through strategic partnerships and innovative professional learning opportunities.

PWISTA proudly serves as an official College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Summer Institute Provider, supporting teachers in delivering high-quality AP Science instruction.

Founder, Coordinator and Program Director:
Mark Langella