Promoting Equity in Science Education via Next Generation Science Criteria

Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS), with its diverse student population of over 130,000, has embarked on a decade-long journey to ensure that all learners are included in the implementation of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Dr. Godfrey Rangasammy, K-12 Science Supervisor for the district, is leading this comprehensive effort.

Rangasammy believes that it's crucial to bring in experts in science from the city, particularly those of the same race and ethnicity as the students in the district, to show them people working in STEM fields. This approach aims to inspire and motivate students, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging.

Collaboration with staff and teachers is key to the district's approach. Rangasammy emphasises the importance of building capacity for teachers, acknowledging that many may have had limited science education. Addressing gaps in curriculum and pedagogy through external audits and connecting with experts is critical for Rangasammy and his team.

The PGCPS STEM equity effort originally started with an internal assessment and has since focused on improving engagement with new NGSS-aligned textbooks and course materials, phenomena-based learning, hands-on activities, and creating opportunities to connect with those working in STEM fields.

In addition to making sure content is NGSS-aligned, an additional emphasis has been put on student achievement and career and college readiness. This is evident in initiatives such as the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem-focused phenomena-based learning, where ninth-grade students grow live mussels in tanks in their classrooms, analysing data on factors like pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen.

Rangasammy states that there's no price on curiosity, as it transcends all socioeconomic groups. He highlights research showing that Black and Brown preschoolers are marginalized, and pre-K is the ideal time to start all students down the STEM path. To this end, the district has initiated STEM Fridays during summer school, featuring hands-on activities such as coding and robotics, and sending home hands-on manipulatives.

The focus of STEM Fridays is on supporting marginalized populations, particularly English Language Learners (ELD). The district also encourages participation in its annual science fair, which is one of the oldest in the nation, and provides scholarships for winners.

Dr. Godfrey Rangasammy and his team at PGCPS have announced and involved organisations such as the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), and local universities to support STEM equity in schools over the past ten years. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, with Rangasammy and Jessica Leedy, PGCPS high school literacy coach, recently honoured with an "Innovative Leader Award" by Tech & Learning.

Maryland adopted the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in 2013. Since then, Rangasammy believes that NGSS focuses on supporting marginalized populations and meeting students where they are, from pre-K through 12. The district's approach to implementing the NGSS emphasises equity and access, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed in STEM fields.