Resources

California’s middle schools have the potential to provide high quality science education. However, major challenges limit opportunities for science learning, leaving that potential unfulfilled.

This issue of Centerview, produced by the Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning at WestEd, summarizes Untapped Potential, a report on the status of science teaching and learning in California middle schools. What did researchers find?

• Poor student preparation
• Lack of student interest
• Lack of systemic support for science
• Overcrowded classrooms
• Insufficient time for instruction
• Inadequate materials
• Inadequate teacher background or preparation

This issue of Centerview presents state and local policymakers with recommendations for improvement.