The Certified AMS Teacher (CAT) Program was established by the AMS to recognize and support educators actively engaged in raising Earth science literacy. CAT specifically connects K-12 educators to AMS, which strengthens their connection to the atmospheric science community and its resources.

The CAT Program provides an incentive for continued professional growth for Earth science educators, ensuring that CATs remain up-to-date on new developments in Earth science and teaching standards. It offers K-12 educators opportunities to enroll in AMS Education Program courses to enhance their knowledge of weather, ocean, and climate science.

Eligibility Requirements

Active, in-service K-12 teachers and informal educators (i.e. museum docents, education center employees, aquarium tour guides, etc.) are eligible to become Certified AMS Teachers (CATs) through the AMS if they have completed two of the AMS Education Program’s Professional Development Courses. In-service K-12 teachers and informal educators who have not taken AMS Education Program’s Professional Development Courses are also eligible to apply if their principal occupation is K-12 education and they hold a degree in atmospheric or a related science. Educators who fall into this category, or who have completed two of the AMS Education Program’s courses more than five years ago, must also upload a lesson plan with their application.

The AMS Board on Pre-College Education is responsible for evaluating applications and making recommendations to the Education and Engagement Commissioner for review and final decision about certification.

The AMS CAT designation certifies that an educator can competently and accurately communicate the valuable knowledge of atmospheric and related science to students. One of the purposes of the CAT program is to provide an incentive for continued professional growth and competency. Professional development is a requirement to maintain CAT certification.

For more details on the application process, please read the full procedures. Guidelines on the appeals process may be found here.

Apply Now

Application and Renewal Fees