SOS: Save Our Science Alert -- Action Needed! What is happening: In this season of budget crisis and difficult cuts, many in our community are concerned about the fate of science programs in Seattle Public Schools. Some teacher and parent advocates have put together the points here for your information and action: • Science is not included in the District's Strategic Plan (a district, not a building decision) • District Science Manager and Math Manager positions are being eliminated and combined into one new position. • No funding for science professional development K-8 for (2011-12). • Science Materials Center to continue, but without the support of a Science Manager and science coaches What does this potentially mean for our students? • If the Science Materials Center (SMC) is unable to run effectively, teachers may not have access to the materials and kits that enable all kids to do hands-on science. Without this access, equity issues will arise where students in some schools may not have access to science equipment necessary for learning. • Elementary school teachers often don't have a science background and depend on "kit training sessions" to successfully implement inquiry-based science. Without professional development, and with science removed from the district's strategic plan, it is likely that there will be far less science taught at the elementary school level. • Students who do not receive elementary level science prerequisites and basic skills are likely to struggle with science at the middle school and then the high school level. • Science coaches can best be described as the glue that holds the district science curriculum together. They run professional development sessions, train new teachers, implement kit trainings to help teachers deliver instruction more effectively, and help make sure that science is being taught in a cohesive manner that aligns to state standards. Without the guidance of a Science manager and coaches, the future of science education in the district lacks direction and support. • With potentially less organized supplies, no professional development, less curriculum alignment, and less teacher support, it will ultimately be the students who suffer. • Science is a core subject that is tested on the 8th grade MSP and on the HSPE (which students must pass to graduate high school). Students have to take these high-stakes assessments in science, so why is science absent from the strategic plan, and why is the district taking actions that will impact student success in science? What can I do to help? • Please forward this information to those who care about science education in Seattle Public Schools. Budget cuts are being debated now! Let the school district know that despite bleak economic times, science should remain a priority for the district. • Call, email, or write letters to District Administration: Dr. Maria Goodloe-Johnson: Superintendent superintendent@seattleschools.org Dr. Susan Enfield: Chief Academic Officer saenfield@seattleschools.org Dr. Cathy Thompson: Instructional Services cthompson@seattleschools.org Contact your School Board representative: Michael Debell represents McClure Middle School. Call (206) 252-0040 or email michael.debell@seattleschools.org or get contact or community meeting info for other School Board members. It is important to recognize that many important budget items are on the table, and so now is a very significant time for making parent and community priorities known.