Maryland develops new pre kindergarten science early learning standards for ages 4 to 5

The Maryland State Board of Education convened on December 3, 2024, to discuss the introduction of new pre-kindergarten science early learning standards aimed at children aged four. This initiative builds upon the early learning standards established for children from birth to three years, which were adopted earlier this year.

Dr. Cook, a key presenter at the meeting, emphasized the importance of these standards in providing a structured framework for science education across various learning environments, including public schools, Head Start programs, and childcare centers. The new standards are designed to ensure that all educators and support staff in Maryland can effectively teach science and engineering concepts to young learners.

Zachary Carey, the Director of Science at the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), highlighted that the pre-kindergarten standards align with current research in child development and learning science. He noted that the standards recognize children's ability to engage with complex scientific ideas through play and exploration, fostering an inclusive learning environment that respects diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The development of these standards involved extensive collaboration with an expert committee, which included educators and specialists from across the state. This committee conducted a landscape analysis to understand how other states have approached similar challenges, ensuring that Maryland's standards are both rigorous and relevant.

The meeting also outlined the next steps for implementing these standards, which are expected to bridge the gap between early learning and the Next Generation Science Standards that apply from kindergarten through 12th grade. The board's commitment to enhancing early science education reflects a broader goal of improving educational outcomes for all Maryland children.

As Maryland moves forward with these new standards, the emphasis on inclusivity and community engagement is poised to set a national example for early childhood science education. The board's actions today signal a significant step toward enriching the educational landscape for the state's youngest learners.