You are here

Science

Web banner for science


Science Education Updates and Events:

  • Awards and Funding Opportunities:
    • Are you a rural middle school teacher interested in a paid experience using a Green Building Energy instructional resources developed by CSU and the University of Missouri? Access more information about how to get involved here. 
    • Nominations for the 2023-2024 Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science (PAEMST) award cycle for K-6th grade teachers is now open. To review all of the eligibility requirements and to nominate a teacher, see the PAEMST website.
      • ​To be eligible for a PAEMST award, applicants must teach at least half time, and have at least five years of full-time experience. 
      • Once nominated, the teacher will need to complete an application including a resume, a video of their teaching, a written narrative, supplemental materials, and three letters of recommendation. Mentoring is available and encouraged to ensure teachers submit high-quality applications.
    • If you have been a member of the Colorado Association of Science Teachers (CAST) for at least a year, consider applying for a CAST mini-grant. 

 

 

  • Professional Learning Opportunities: 
    • Check out ​AI 101 for Teachers – that Code.org co-launched alongside ETS, Khan Academy and ISTE. The program is a free, foundational online learning series for any teacher and educator interested in AI and its transformative potential in education. 

    • Denver Zoo is thrilled to be launching three new Teacher Professional Development courses designed to fill you with conservation inspiration...so you’ll be ready to engage your students in the fall. Want more information? Contact us at DZEducation@denverzoo.org.
    • Colorado Parks and Wildlife Starting in August Virtual, free interactive virtual programs for K-12 classes. About: Virtual program topics will include adaptations, mapping, and ecosystems. Colorado Parks and Wildlife will provide a zoom link and printouts. Additional information will be provided after signing up.  

      Sign-up Here
    • Resilient Colorado: Natural Hazards Education for Secondary Science and Social Studies Teachers September 5th - November 27th. Presented by CIRES, Virtual Training

 

Shortcuts to Additional Resources:


Graphic for academic standards for science

Academic Standards

The revised Colorado Academic Standards for Science reflect a new vision for science education that connects scientific knowledge, in authentic ways, to real-world problem solving and innovation. The standards forefront scientific practices that go beyond the inquiry process to arrive at justifiable rationales for interpretations of phenomena. 

Graphic for curriculum support for science

Curriculum Support

Article IX, Section 16 of Colorado's constitution states, "Neither the general assembly nor the state board of education shall have power to prescribe textbooks to be used in the public schools." However, CDE can still serve as an advisor to help districts and schools adopt, adapt, develop, or use the materials of their choice. 

Graphic for instructional support for science

Instructional Support

Colorado's 2020 Science Standards support a three-dimensional model of science teaching and learning. Instructional support is grounded in CDE's shared approach to Best, First Instruction and strategies supported by professional organizations and scholars. 

Graphic for community for science

Community

There are many opportunities to connect and grow as a professional educator with the larger science education community, including mailing lists, professional organizations, awards and grants, and events. 


Additional Information 

Learn more about CMAS Science here.


For further assistance, please contact:

Samantha Agoos
Science Content Specialist
C 720.955.9253
agoos_s@cde.state.co.us