California STEM Learning Network Praises Adoption of Next Generation Science Standards
San Francisco, California (PRWEB) September 05, 2013 -- At is meeting yesterday, the California State Board of Education (SBE) voted unanimously to adopt the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), making it the largest and one of the earliest states to adopt newly developed science standards.
The NGSS promises a transformation of science education for the state’s 6.3 million K- 12 students by fostering deeper understanding of the key concepts and practices associated with science and engineering. In addition, by integrating with and building upon California’s recently adopted new standards in Mathematics and English Language Arts, the NGSS emphasize creativity, critical thinking and real-world application of skills.
CSLNet President and CEO Chris Roe states, “These new standards represent a paradigm shift for what students need to know and be able to do in science and engineering and are critical for the long-term vitality of California’s technology and innovation-driven economy, which currently faces shortages of skilled STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) workers.”
In comments at yesterday's meeting, Roe stated, “We firmly believe that these new standards will set California on a path to ensure that all of our students have the learning opportunities they need to succeed in college, in their career and as informed citizens.” Roe also encouraged the Board to focus on supporting a robust implementation plan and committed CSLNet’s support in working with the state on these essential and significant next steps.
As the next step in what will be a multi-year process to fully implement the new standards, Governor Brown is expected to sign legislation to enable the development of a new curricular framework based on the approved standards.
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for K-12 public instruction were developed through a collaborative process involving 26 states facilitated by the Washington, DCbased organization Achieve in partnership with the National Research Council, the National Science Teachers Association and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. California is the sixth state to officially adopt the new standards.
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The California STEM Learning Network is a San Francisco-based non-profit founded in 2010 to create a statewide network of champions to ensure all California students have access to high quality STEM learning opportunities that prepare them for success in college, career and their daily lives. (http://www.cslnet.org).
Chris Roe, California STEM Learning Network, http://cslnet.org, +1 415-315-1725, [email protected]
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