Chapter 8: Teacher Leaders as Learners and Advocates of Science: What Can Happen When K–12, Higher Education, and Philanthropy Join Forces

In 2011 the Quantum Foundation identified science education as a key pro-grammatic focus area. The decision to focus on science education was, in part, driven by a recognized need to increase the number of students in our public schools who are interested and proficient in science-related fields and thus may be more likely to enter science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. This recognition occurred in a broader sociopolitical and economic context whereby prominent research institutes and agencies at the national level were reporting on a severe science-related workforce shortage in the United States. Something had to be done at the K–12 and higher education levels to mitigate this shortage (National Academies, 2007).