Phase Two Development of Professional Learning Initiative for Science Leaders Network

Background

The High Plains Regional Education Cooperative #3 is issuing this contract to continue support for the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED) in implementing the NM STEM Ready! Science Standards. The goal of this contract is to enhance professional learning opportunities for local educational agencies (LEAs) and build capacity among science educators. This addresses concerns about the lack of expertise in supporting science education within these agencies.

Work Details

The contractor, WestEd, will provide a second phase of a year-long professional learning initiative for Building Science Leaders Network participants. This phase includes: 1) Building capacity in NM STEM Ready! Science and the Three-Dimensional Framework across educational ecosystems; 2) Establishing a Community of Practice and mentorship opportunities; 3) Creating and implementing a Five-Year Strategic Plan for Science; 4) Supporting the implementation of HQIM Science Implementation; 5) Focusing on culturally responsive education and student supports; 6) Conducting a Year Three Facilitator Academy to build capacity among veteran participants through a train-the-trainer model. Specific activities include developing an equitable professional learning matrix, identifying barriers to HQIM implementation, and providing feedback to teachers on instructional practices.

Period of Performance

12 months

Bidder Requirements

WestEd has been a collaborator with PED since 2016 and possesses unique qualifications that make them the sole source capable of fulfilling this contract. They have extensive knowledge of the New Mexico educational ecosystem and have co-designed the Building Science Leaders Network with PED.