Science

Discover the Framework for K-12 Science Education!

The Kent ISD Science team offers support and guidance for science education, focusing on The Framework for K-12 Science Education which support the Michigan Science Standards. This framework is based on current evidence-based scientific research and identifies the science topics all K-12 students should learn. In this approach to teaching science, students are encouraged to collaborate on problem-solving and scientific explanations.

Scientifically Literate Scholars

Our educational vision aims to create scholars who have a strong understanding of science and can work together to find the most effective solution to a problem or provide a scientifically sound explanation of a phenomenon.

Equitable Access and Engagement

Our educational vision includes valuing students' contributions to the classroom from their community, culture, and personal identity as they navigate and understand the various aspects of our world, both natural and man-made.

Instructional Support

We are dedicated to providing students with top-notch science education daily. Our comprehensive approach includes utilizing a 3D curriculum, providing instruction, assessment support, and implementing high-quality teaching methods and resources. We also offer unique projects that integrate various content areas and place-based education. Moreover, we are available to assist with the acquisition of grants

Science Supports and Services

Our team of experienced educators offers a comprehensive list of Science services and supports to enhance the quality of science education in your district. We work collaboratively with you to develop a personalized plan tailored to your K-12 classroom needs. We promote scientific literacy, ensure equal access and engagement, and provide instructional support to districts.

Science Professional Learning

Our Science professional learning opportunities enable educators to gain a deeper understanding of The Framework for K-12 Science Education. They can also collaborate with peers and learn effective instructional practices that enhance scientific literacy for all students. We focus on fostering curiosity, building community, and driving positive change. Check out our 2024-2025 Science PL webpage.

Join the Science Collaborative of West Michigan (SCWM)!

We're a group of educators passionate about making science education fun and engaging for all students. We believe evidence-based instructional practices are crucial to increasing scientific literacy for ALL students. SCWM is a community that brings together science educators from various schools and districts in West Michigan. Through this supportive community, we can inspire and encourage each other to create exceptional learning experiences for our students while keeping ourselves informed about the science standards. Please become a member of the Science Collaborative of West Michigan today and join our community!

Leading the Way in Science Education

As district representatives, we are essential in making decisions at the state and national levels. Our involvement in various organizations, such as:

reflects our dedication to representing Science in statewide and national networks. We strive to continuously learn and apply research-based practices in our classrooms, taking our responsibility seriously as both a voice and leader in implementing best practices.

Science Updates & News

September 7, 2023
Unleashing Classroom Excitement: Fantasy Football & Esports Transform K-12 Education
In the fall of 2016 and spring of 2017, I incorporated fantasy football and esports into my English Language Arts class to enhance student engagement. These activities served as reading comprehension tools and provided project-based learning opportunities. Fantasy sports and esports are two of the most popular hobbies in the world, and they are now being used in education to engage students and teach essential skills.
June 6, 2023
5 Essential Books Every Educator Needs on Their Summer Reading List
With the sun shining bright and days getting longer, educators can take advantage of the perfect opportunity to engage in essential professional learning. Grab a refreshing glass of lemonade, find a comfortable spot to unwind, and explore the top five must-read books that Kent ISD Educational Consultants recommend. These books will inspire, motivate, and transform … Continue reading 5 Essential Books Every Educator Needs on Their Summer Reading List

STEM Resources

STEM Teaching Tools

Explore curated STEM Teaching Tools, offering practical solutions for addressing common challenges in science, technology, engineering, and math education. Browse individual tools or download the full collection of PDFs at STEM Teaching Tools PDF Collection. Translations into Spanish are also available for broader accessibility.

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Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

Crosscutting, Core Ideas, and Practices that make up the three dimensional learning for NGSXImproving Science Education Through Three-Dimensional Learning

  • Crosscutting Concepts
  • Science and Engineering Practices
  • Disciplinary Core Ideas

Kent ISD's List of NGSS Resources

Framework for K-12 Science Education

The Kent ISD Science team supports science education through The Framework for K-12 Science Education, which is aligned with the Michigan Science Standards. This evidence-based framework outlines essential science topics for K-12 students, emphasizing collaborative problem-solving and scientific inquiry.

Brilliance and Strengths Report

The Brilliance and Strengths Report emphasizes the importance of early science and engineering education. Children’s natural curiosity and ability to grasp complex concepts highlight the need for learning environments that integrate science with their interests and real-life contexts. While English language arts and mathematics are critical, enhancing science education from an early age supports a well-rounded development and fosters students’ investigative skills and enthusiasm for learning.

2023-2024 Science Professional Learning Fast Facts

14 Districts and PSA's in Kent County, Along With Educators From 7 Other Counties Participated in Science Professional Learning
283 SCECHs Earned by 20 Educators
767 Hours of Training
95 Educators Attended 4 Virtual and In-Person Professional Learning Opportunities

Science Team

Wendi Vogel

Educational Consultant (Science)

Stay Connected

Follow Wendi on Twitter 

Follow @NGSS_Tweeps - follow each week during the school year for different teachers sharing their classrooms and NGSS implementation)

Follow #NGSSchat - every first and third Thursday at 9 pm

Join Science Educators ListSERV

 

Partnerships

Groundswell Stewardship Initiative Logo