We've Got Some Work To Do (in Science)!

Below are some pictures from the first Sally Ride Science Academy training.  All elementary administrators received an overview of the training that 4th/5th grade teachers will receive next week.  Austin Elementary is proud to be hosting the trainings in our new "PD Room."

We "think" this is Town Center AP Shannon Edwards!

Our very own Ms. Snyder (Austin 5th grade teacher).  She made us very proud!

Hard at work identifying traditional AND nontraditional science careers

More than anything, this training helped me realize we have some tough work ahead in promoting a love of science and careers in science.  Studies overwhelmingly show that we are moving towards an economy that will heavily rely on S.T.E.M. careers.  However, are we doing everything we can to equip our future workforce with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in the global economy? 

I am extremely excited for our teachers to participate in this training.  They will be key in addressing problems such as the disparity of boys and girls choosing science careers, students dwindling interest in math/science as they advance through school, and preparing students for jobs that do not yet exist.  As the blog title suggested, "We've Got Some Work To Do (in Science)!"

A topic that was raised frequently throughout the training was the idea of "Science Literacy" or equipping students to be "literate in Science."  What does this mean to you?  How do we work to ensure that our students are "Science Literate?"  Ideas????