Science and technology are basic parts of modern life. In the 21st century study of the “STEM” [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics] fields is more important than ever, and not just for future scientists and engineers; it is essential for every student. Unfortunately, while more and more students go to college, fewer and fewer graduate with degrees in STEM areas. American schools at every level need to promote STEM if the US is to remain competitive in the world.
In 2009 President Obama said, “I’m committed to moving our country from the middle to the top of the pack in science and math education over the next decade.” His Blueprint for Reform of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act is intended to support that movement.
This is a worthy intention, to be sure. The Act also provides Federal money to help make it successful. What should you be seeing in your child’s school? With or without Federal grants, your school should be working toward the goal of excellence in STEM courses.
Look for the following efforts in your school:
1. Innovation. The school should be providing and promoting new opportunities for students to learn and experience STEM. Schools need to go far beyond just the annual ‘Science Fair’. Look for clubs, events, and competitions open to all students and actively backed by the school faculty and administration.
2. Partnerships. Both the school and the community ‘win’ when there are partnerships formed to enhance teaching, learning, and leading in STEM subject areas. Parents can be pivotal in making contacts that forge partnerships between districts and community members such as colleges, businesses, and experts in fields of interest.
3. Assessments. Student testing is essential, but it must be broad-based and well-researched or else it will be of only limited value. The best assessments do not measure basic skills. Rather, they test the students’ mastery of more complex tasks, such as analysis and problem-solving. Get information about ALL testing administered in your school. Ask about voluntary evaluations as well.
4. Teacher Professional Development. Find out what resources have been made available to teachers, and remember that continuing education for teachers is only a part of their development. DO teachers get support time, collaboration time, and peer mentoring to improve their teaching performance? Can parent volunteers help increase the amount of time available for this important work?
5. Recognition and Rewards. Great teachers and great students should be recognized, and such recognition within the school is very important. Are school awards published in the local paper, announced on local radio, highlighted at parent meetings, and presented at School Board sessions? Do all you can do to make these things happen; what is made to appear important will be seen that way by your school, its students, and the community at large.
If you are already seeing these things – great! If you are not, talk to teachers, counselors and administrators about them. Talk to other parents. See what, together, you can do to assure first-rate education for your children.
Jo Karabasz
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