Open Letter to State Decisionmakers on STEM and ESSA

Open Letter to State Decisionmakers on STEM and ESSA

An open letter from the STEM Education Coalition that provide specific recommendations for decisionmakers as they develop state-based strategies around ESSA implementation. Recommendations include:

  • State leaders should utilize science assessments and outcomes as part of your state’s accountability system.
  • We encourage you to use Title I state funds to create or improve science assessments, especially in states working to adopt and implement new science education standards.
  • Use ESSa Title II (Preparing, Training, and Recruiting High-Quality Teachers, Principals, and Other School Leaders) funding to provide professional development to teachers on STEM content areas and develop STEM leaders and mentors.
  • Utilize Title II funds to establish, expand, or improve alternative certification for STEm teachers and provide for differentiated pay and other incentives to recruit and retain teachers in math and science.
  • Ensure Title IV, Part A funding is used to support the wide range of activities that are specifically allowed in the statute to improve STEM teaching and learning.

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