REPORT: The Future of Science Education in California: The Promise of the Next Generation of Science Standards for Students and Communities

 

Later this year, California policymakers will decide whether to adopt a new set of science standards, called the Next Generation Science Standards, or NGSS. The NGSS not only reflect the major advances in science of the last two decades, they also focus strongly on teaching students the practices that scientists and engineers use to apply the knowledge of science to solving real-world problems. The standards promise to deepen students’ conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and communication skills. The resulting rigorous science education will allow every student to graduate from high school better prepared to successfully negotiate the rigors of college and 21st century careers. The promise of the NGSS will only be realized if California’s leaders make the decision to adopt them. We urge you to express your support. For more about these standards and how you can be involved, please see our latest report, The Future of Science Education in California: The Promise of the Next Generation Science Standards for Students and Communities, which we have produced in collaboration with our partners: The California STEM Learning Network and Children Now.

Share:

More Posts

Send Us A Message

Karla Fernandez

Communications Manager

Karla Fernandez (she/her/hers) joins Ed Trust–West as a Communications Manager with over 11 years of experience advancing social impact initiatives.

Karla started her career as a teacher at Chicago Public Schools and UIC College Prep. After teaching, Karla joined United Friends of the Children to support LA County’s youth in foster care as a college counselor. Through Leadership for Educational Equity, Karla also served as a Policy Advisor Fellow for the office of a Los Angeles Unified School Board Member. She solidified her interests in policy analysis and quantitative research during her time with the Price Center for Social Innovation, the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, and the USC Presidential Working Group on Sustainability. Before joining The Education Trust–West, Karla was the Associate Director for the Southeast Los Angeles (SELA) Collaborative, a network of nonprofits advocating for communities in SELA.

Karla holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology from the University of Chicago, a Master of Public Policy from the USC Price School of Public Policy, and a Graduate Certificate in Policy Advocacy from the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Karla is based out of southern California and is passionate about using data analysis, communications, and digital strategies for policy advocacy and social justice efforts.