Abstract
This paper describes a National Science Foundation Teacher
Enhancement Program (NSF9731083) based on the theme of "Toward Other Planetary Systems" held in Hawaii from 1999-2004. The purpose of the workshop is to help local and US-affiliated Pacific teachers acquire basic astronomy knowledge, modern teaching skills, and gain insight into exciting contemporary astronomy research. Instructional skills are strengthened by providing new hands-on materials, experience with evaluation techniques and extensive follow-up. The program also has an integrated student component designed to introduce high school students to careers in astronomy, technology and the sciences. Discussions of how astronomers are using the telescopes on Mauna Kea, around the world, and in space to search for evidence of planet formation in other planetary
systems - origins - and to search for life elsewhere are opening up a new awareness of the forefront of astronomical research in Hawaii and around the world.
