NJ statewide science proficiency stands at just 27%, not improving since the pandemic. This isn't a pandemic Problem.

Sign this petition to improve our students’ problem-solving, critical, and analytical skills in K-12 Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) curriculum. We propose Physics first (8th grade) then Chemistry (9th grade) then Biology (10th grade) then Physics (11th grade).

Physics allows students to quantify natural phenomena through judicious measurements and critically evaluate why and how mathematics applies to them. This synthesizes discovery and pattern recognition in its most powerful form, and the development of these skills applies to the study of all other sciences including Biology, Chemistry, AI, Computer Science, Social Science, etc.

Physics, Chemistry and Biology are NOT independent topics. They are a sequence of interrelated content that can be used to develop critical analytical skills for students starting in middle school. Placing Physics First aids in understanding Chemistry content that constantly builds, rather than three independent, unrelated experiences. Currently the sequence is reversed.

The time given to STEM instruction in upper grades for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology is barely different than in lower grades -- an anemic 18 minutes of STEM to 89 minutes of English, according to the 2018 National Survey of Science and Mathematics Education. After the pandemic, classrooms have alternated between science and social studies to make up for loss of instruction in English Language Arts and Math.

When signing this petition, please add your comments to what you hope to see changed for the NJ Student Learning Standards. The NJ DOE will read your comments during public hearing. Date of submission of this petition to NJ DOE is February 26, 2026. Thank you for your contribution.

Districts that have offered Physics First at most or all schools include Baltimore, Carroll, and Prince George’s Counties in Maryland, San Diego in California, Little Rock in Arkansas, and Boston and Cambridge in Massachusetts.

***THIS PETITION IS NOT COLLECTING MONEY