There are rising concerns about science education, particularly as colleges and universities report significant drops in student interest and enrollment within the first year. Recently, the National Board on Science Education brought together practicing scientists and members to discuss ways they could improve awareness and understanding of STEM fields through partnering with K-12 schools. Read more about how scientists are prioritizing K-12 education and the rest of this week’s education stories.
Scientists Take on New Roles in K-12 Classrooms
The grim truth about the increasing dropouts in college science is causing practicing scientists to rethink how they can improve interest in STEM through K-12 classrooms. The next-generation standards widen opportunities for science-educator partnerships, because they represent new approaches to scientists working with schools. Read more
San Francisco Becomes First City to Offer Free Community College Tuition to All Residents
Last week, Mayor Ed Lee announced their city would be partnering with the City College of San Francisco to offer free tuition to residents, starting next fall. San Francisco would be setting aside a total of $5.4 million annually to cover enrollment fees, textbooks, transportation, and related expenses. Overall, the program could provide some form of assistance to 28,000 to 30,000 students. Read more
New Stats: Preteens Who Mistrust Teachers Are Less Likely to Reach College
According to a small survey conducted at the University of Texas at Austin, minority youth experienced more biased treatment and lost more trust over their middle school years than their white peers. The results also suggest that students of color who perceive biased treatment from middle school teachers may be less likely to attend college. Read more
Exploring Future K-12 Connectivity
Recent findings continue to point to increasing demand for better connectivity. Funds for Learning found that 72 percent of school districts consider wi-fi critical to their mission. Many school districts are realizing the great need for a backbone infrastructure that would enable wireless access to roll out new tech programs and innovative classroom resources. Some schools are venturing into mobile hot spots and local business partnerships; others are getting even more inventive. Read more
How Much Do Teachers Make in Each State?
GoBankingRates released a new report this month on average teacher salaries, state by state. While the national salary trends for teachers aren’t showing positive growth, Alaska and a few other states are offering well-paying opportunities. How does your state stack up? Read more
Want Social-Emotional Learning to Work? The Careful Balance of Tech and Relationships
About one in four teenagers suffer from mental health disorders, making awareness and support a growing priority for high schools and colleges. Base Education works with nine school districts in Colorado, with a platform to better support relationships with students. Find out how their schools used education technology to focus on improving social-emotional development and mental health support. Read more
