What Can School Boards Do?

• Set graduation standards that require students to participate in a challenging curriculum in science and mathematics.
  
  
• Set policies that ensure equitable access for all students to quality teaching, science labs, field trips, computers and other technology.
  
  
• Set policies that encourage all teachers to see professional development in the disciplines of science and mathematics as well as in standards-based teaching methods.
  
  
• Review student enrollment patterns. Encourage increasing numbers of students of all ethnicities and genders to complete advanced science and mathematics courses.
  
  
• Learn about the elements of quality science ad mathematics teaching through visits to classrooms of respected teachers and presentations at Board meetings.
  
  
• Adopt policies to encourage professional development in non-traditional ways such as via technology.
  
  
• Recognize students and community members who are pursuing science and mathematics related studies and careers.
  
  
• Establish and nurture community, business and higher education partnerships. Enable students and teachers to experience science and mathematics applications outside the classroom.
  
  
• Review and facilitate continual improvement of student achievement in science and mathematics.
  
  
• Ensure students are being informed of science and mathematics related career opportunities.
  
  
• Review the elementary and middle school curricula and programs to ensure all students are developing and understanding of science and mathematics concepts.
  
  
• Set policy to provide each elementary school at least one teacher with specialized training in science and mathematics.

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