In Nebraska, the Department of Education has released a draft of proposed revisions to the state’s College and Career Ready Standards for Science. The department is seeking feedback from the public as part of the standards review and revision process. By law, Nebraska must update its standards for reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies every seven years.
The current science standards were approved in 2017 and provide a framework for science education in the state. Educators from pre-kindergarten to postsecondary, including public and non-public schools, helped develop the first draft of the proposed science standards. Approval is expected to be finalized by the State Board of Education in the fall of 2024. These standards outline what students are expected to learn in the science content area and offer guidance to teachers as they create learning experiences for their students.
It’s important to note that these standards do not dictate specific curriculum, lessons, teaching techniques or activities. That decision is left up to individual school districts and classroom teachers at a local level. The public is encouraged to review the proposed draft of the science standards and provide input through a public input survey and a dedicated email address before May 30th, 2024.
