Implementing high quality instructional materials (HQIM) in science at the district scale is one of the most important pathways to reaching students with NGSS aligned reforms. However, taking on a district curriculum adoption process can be daunting. Hear from a panel of district science leaders who have met this challenge head on in three very different contexts. You will learn about the components of various district contexts and the challenges and successes these leaders have met along the way. You will leave with insights you can apply to your own context, whatever stage of the process your district is in!

TAKEAWAYS:
You will leave with insights applicable to their own district curriculum implementation processes.

SPEAKERS:
Liz Beans, Elizabeth Johnston, Kate Henson

Implementing high quality instructional materials (HQIM) in science at the district scale is one of the most important pathways to reaching students with NGSS aligned reforms. However, taking on a district curriculum adoption process can be daunting. There are many factors and interested parties to consider. How can a district pilot HQIM and collect data that will inform a successful, sustaining adoption? In this workshop we will introduce a process to support district leaders in Improvement Oriented Curriculum Adoption. Participants will experience steps of the process including selecting pilot curricula, identifying aims, mapping the system and developing practical measures. District science leaders will leave with resources that prepare them to work within their own contents to lead their teachers in supporting students with standards aligned equitable instructional materials.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to engage stakeholders in their school systems in a process to support the adoption of HQIM in science.

SPEAKERS:
Kate Henson

More than 10 years after NGSS was rolled out, science curriculum in many contexts remains unaligned and lacks rigorous three-dimensional performance, especially at the high school level. This session will introduce educators to the NSTA matrices of NGSS dimensions, utilizing them to examine activities from different curriculum sources. Educators can apply this process in evaluating, developing, or adjusting curriculum to ensure that it meets the high bar of NGSS in all three dimensions, thus supporting equitable instruction for all students. This session is for anyone who will lead or participate in the evaluation of science curriculum materials, or anyone who wants to ensure their adopted or developed science curriculum aligns with NGSS.

TAKEAWAYS:
Participants will learn how to recognize grade-level performance using appendices E-G of the Framework, and will become familiar with common curriculum planning approaches that may lead to misalignment between student performance and grade-level standards.

SPEAKERS:
Liz Beans