PD Playlist: Introducing the NGSS / NRC Framework Vision to School Principals

APPROACH: Ask principals gathered in small groups to read the following tools—preferably as printed PDFs or online. Ask them to discuss the Reflection Questions for each (listed in a separate pull-out box on each tool), in the following sequence. This can lead to a larger discussion of how to support and plan for implementation of the NGSS / Framework vision within their buildings.

Estimated Time: 30-45 min.

• Next Generation Science Standards: What's different, and do they matter? (10 min)
• Overview: How can we promote equity in science education? (10 min)
• What school building administrators should know about the new vision for K-12 science education (10 min)
• Optional (if time allows): Research Brief: Supporting teacher professional communities to implement school-wide initiatives (15 min)
• Leave them with the following resources for further inquiry and sharing with their faculty:
  • Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) web site: the main site for NGSS; be sure to highlight the NGSS Appendices
  • NRC Framework for K-12 Science Education: the consensus vision that guided the development of the NGSS; everyone should read the Framework to understand the goals of NGSS
  • STEM Teaching Tools: our professional resources for supporting implementation of NGSS; encourage them to browse the collection of tools available
  • NSTA NGSS Portal: a collection of resources for science teachers on implementing the NGSS