There are times in the history of this country when a widely perceived
crisis pulls us together as a people to address a challenge head on. I
believe the current crisis in public education creates this kind of
climate. It is well past time to recognize that the accelerating impact
of science and technology on everyone's life makes a basic understanding
of science and mathematics an essential part of any education for the
21st century.
Science must become a core subject that is taught as "the fourth R" in
every school year, starting in kindergarten. I am not talking about
science as most students currently experience it - the dry memorization
of science terms - but as an exciting and empowering experience in
problem-solving that takes advantage of the curiosity in young children
and increases each student's understanding of the world.
Scientists and engineers working in partnership with local teachers
represent an essential new force in science education reform. But to be
effective, we scientists must first be willing to be educated about the
opportunities and problems in our schools. This means that we must
approach this problem with a humility that reflects how little most of us
really understand about how children learn, as well as our respect for
the tremendous energy, devotion and skills required to be a successful
K-12 teacher in today's schools.
Mary "Meddie" Apodaca, PhD
Director, Woodrow Wilson Leadership Program for Teachers
CN 5281, 5 Vaughn Drive
Princeton NJ 08543
apodaca@woodrow.org; apodaca@www.woodrow.org
609-452-7007 X19
F: 0066