On behalf of the Indiana Department of Education, Indiana Superintendent for Public
Instruction Tony Bennett has announced that 2010 is the “Year of Science”, a start for
science education reform in Indiana. On February 3, 2010, IDOE and I-STEM will partner with Eli Lilly and Company to host the first Indiana Science Summit. The summit will bring together stakeholders from around the state to listen and discuss alternatives for improving science education.
The focus of the summit will be centered on a strategic plan that has been developed in partnership with the National Science Resources Center (NSRC) that supports inquiry-based science education. Also to be discussed is the need for such a system to sustain professional development and practical methods for implementing research-based science curriculum.
Eli Lilly and Company will host the summit at their corporate headquarters in downtown Indianapolis. Though not open to the public, those wanting to view it will be able to watch live at UStream.com. A link will be provided at a later time. Elementary teachers, middle and high school science teachers, administrators, curriculum directors, higher education, community and business leaders are encouraged to participate in this very important event. read more...
February 3, 2010 - 10:00 a..m. – 3:30 p.m.
Eli Lilly and Company, Corporate Headquarters
Indianapolis, Indiana
Background
Indiana will adopt new science curricular materials in 2011, with the process beginning in 2010. These materials will be a primary resource for each classroom in Indiana for the next six years. It is critical that all stakeholders, including teachers, school administrators and community members, be involved to make sure these materials build a deep understanding about science, are research tested, and have proven results in student achievement.
A strategic plan was developed in partnership with the National Science Resources Center (NSRC) for science education reform in Indiana. Other states that have used similar strategic plans and shown significant results include Alabama, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Washington State. Implementation of this plan requires significant commitment from the community and why the summit is a critical step in educating attendees on K-12 Science.
The I-STEM Resource Network along with the NSRC, Eli Lilly and Company and BioCrossroads has held two previous symposiums around the state to build awareness of the science education reform and strategic plan. Each event had nearly 200 attendees, including teachers, administrators, community and business leaders, and government personnel.
