30 ALLIED WITH EDUCATION INL has a long history of close association with the schools in the area. INL recognizes that developing talent at a local level is as important as recruiting the best talent from around the world.To this end, teachers are the lab’s most natural allies. It is essential for the next generation to have advanced critical thinking skills, integrated with an understanding of science, math, engineering, physical and life sciences, and the application of technological concepts. TEAMING TEACHERS Teaming Teachers is a professional development program for K-12 educators.Through this summer program, educators work with INL scientists and technical experts on research projects relevant to the classes they teach. The program helps teachers deepen their knowledge of science, technology, engineering and mathematics and hone their instruction skills. Participants return to their classrooms with new skills and energize students to think about careers in science, mathematics, engineering or technology.The program is open to:  Teaming with Teachers •  Experienced teachers who demonstrate an intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. •  Teachers who are U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens. Participants receive an hourly wage commensurate with their academic credentials and experience for their participation in the eight-week program. Seven teachers participated in the program in 2017. Teachers can collaborate on a variety of projects at INL. For instance, one 2017 Teaming Teacher, Amy Talbot, from Bonneville Technical Careers High School in Idaho Falls, collaborated with INL researcher Tim McJunkin on a GridGame project that will be used in the classroom environment. The GridGame is a desktop simulation that allows students to experience what it is like to manage a power grid in the face of adverse conditions.