Our vision is to be a leader in standards- and inquiry-based science in which all students are scientifically literate.

Our mission is to ensure that all students are able to investigate scientifically in order to acquire conceptual
understanding of their world, develop positive scientific attitudes, and become scientifically literate.
This is accomplished through a collaborative, interactive, rigorous science program responsive to
the needs of diverse learners.

We are focusing on five essential elements that will strengthen and sustain science instruction in our schools.
(National Science Resources Center, Smithsonian, 1989) Our PreK-12 science program is providing:

1. Instructional materials based on state and national science standards. These materials are field-tested and
researched in classrooms by small teams of expert teachers, university science educators, and scientists.

2. Materials support at the Science Materials Center. Staff restocks the kits and modules with consumable
supplies for PreK-eighth grade classrooms.

3. Professional Development: Register here for on-going professional development. These courses enrich
teachers' knowledge of science content and instructional strategies. The courses are facilitated by
science coaches and university science education faculty.

4. Assessments: Assessments measure what students have learned. Data and observations are used to evaluate
the program for effectiveness.

5. Administrative and Community Support across the School District: This support includes administrators
who encourage and support teachers; university scientists who collaborate with the instruction of science
content courses for teachers; families who explore what their children are learning; and organizations,
institutions and businesses that offer in-kind and financial resources.

Pictures: Kindergarten Animals 2X2, 3rd Grade Plant Growth & Development, and 11th & 12th Grade AP Chemistry