Arlington, Va. —May 10, 2012—The National Science Teachers Association, the largest organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning, released the following statement regarding the science results of the 2011 National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP). The statement can be attributed to Dr. Gerry Wheeler, NSTA Interim Executive Director.
“There is no cause for optimism regarding the science results of the 2011 National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP). Overall, the results show miniscule gains in student achievement. The majority of our eighth-grade students still fall below the proficiency level and only 16 of the 47 states that participated had higher science scores than in 2009. When you consider the importance of being scientifically literate in today’s global economy, these scores are simply unacceptable.
Having quality teachers who have a strong background in the science they are teaching, access to ongoing professional development, adequate resources, and time in the school day to plan with colleagues is critical if we want to increase student achievement in science. Despite widespread support from national and state leaders to reform science education, many schools and districts have had to reduce funding for teacher training and science classroom resources. Even during these difficult economic times we must support science teachers and give them the tools they need to improve science education.”
About NSTA
The Arlington, VA-based National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) is the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA’s current membership includes approximately 60,000 science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and others involved in science education.
Contact
Kate Falk, NSTA
(703) 312-9211
kfalk@nsta.org