Educators invited to learn from “America’s Science Teacher” Steve Spangler and receive new classroom supplies
CITGO Fueling Education Program emphasizes the importance of STEM in elementary and middle schools
CITGO Petroleum Corporation is inviting K–8 teachers to participate in its fourth annual Fueling Education Program, a nationwide effort to encourage hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Through April 30, eligible teachers can enter for a chance to win a variety of STEM-focused prizes that support classroom learning and professional development, including a Grand Prize in-school training session led by best-selling author and Emmy-winning science communicator Steve Spangler, often referred to as “America’s Science Teacher.” To enter, teachers should visit www.fuelingeducation.com.
Entering is simple: teachers share a brief description, photo, and/or short video showcasing a favorite STEM lesson idea or classroom activity. Submissions are accepted from K–8 teachers in the 29 states where CITGO operates, plus the District of Columbia. Every entry makes a difference by highlighting creative strategies that inspire students to explore STEM topics.
- Grand Prizes: Three winners will receive an in-school professional development session led by Steve Spangler. Each session allows the winning teacher to invite up to 99 additional teachers to learn engaging STEM lessons and classroom activities. Grand Prize winners also receive a voucher to purchase classroom supplies from National School Supply.
- First Prizes: Nine winners will earn an all-expenses-paid trip to Spangler’s “Science in the Rockies” seminar in Denver. There, participants experience hands-on workshops designed to deepen practical classroom techniques for teaching STEM. Each First Prize recipient also receives a classroom supply voucher from National School Supply.
- Second Prizes: Ninety winners will receive vouchers to purchase classroom supplies from National School Supply to support hands-on STEM learning.
“At its core, STEM education is about helping students make meaningful connections and creating experiences that inspire them to think differently about their potential as future scientists and engineers,” said Steve Spangler. “I’m excited to partner with CITGO and work with teachers through the Fueling Education program to create memorable, hands-on learning that boosts student engagement now and prepares them for future opportunities.”
Contest entrants will receive a STEM education packet while supplies last. The packet includes sample lesson plans and classroom posters designed for elementary and middle school use, helping teachers bring simple, impactful experiments to their students.
Over the past three years, the CITGO Fueling Education program has supplied hundreds of teachers with new materials and resources to support STEM instruction. This initiative reinforces CITGO’s commitment to the communities it serves by investing in educators and equipping classrooms with tools that promote active learning.
Teachers who enter the program not only compete for prizes, but also join a growing network of educators sharing practical STEM strategies. Whether a teacher submits a quick classroom demonstration, a repeatable hands-on experiment, or a full lesson plan, every contribution can inspire colleagues and students alike.
Have a favorite Steve Spangler experiment you use in class—like his popular dry ice demonstrations or the classic soda-and-Mentos geyser? Share your best ideas when you enter the contest to help other teachers bring safe, exciting science experiences to their students.
About Steve Spangler
Steve Spangler is an educator, entrepreneur, and Emmy-winning science communicator who creates lively, accessible science demonstrations that engage children and adults. His videos have reached millions of viewers, and teachers widely use his experiments to boost student curiosity and participation in STEM. Spangler is known for using online platforms to share simple, dramatic experiments that highlight core scientific principles and classroom safety practices.
About CITGO
CITGO supports local communities through a network of nearly 5,500 locally owned and operated stations, many of which sponsor community programs and school initiatives. The Fueling Education Program is one example of CITGO’s ongoing investment in education and community engagement. CITGO is a refiner, transporter, and marketer of fuels, lubricants, and industrial products, headquartered in Houston.
To learn more about program rules, eligibility, and how to enter, visit www.fuelingeducation.com. Share your classroom success stories and favorite Spangler experiments when you enter to help inspire other educators across the country.