Fairport CSD science leaders map K–12 shift to New York State science standards and three‑dimensional learning

Science instructional staff told the board at the workshop that the district is implementing the New York State Science Learning Standards (the state version of the Next Generation Science Standards), shifting instruction to a three‑dimensional model that pairs disciplinary core ideas with science and engineering practices and cross‑cutting concepts.

Andrea Costanza, the district STEM instructional coach, and a second science presenter, Stacy, summarized current work at K–12 levels, recent state required investigations for elementary and middle grades, curriculum choices and an expected multi‑year rollout toward full implementation.

“Instead of the traditional science learning where the teacher is the wealth of knowledge and they impart their knowledge to the students, now the students are being tasked with figuring things out on their own,” Costanza said, describing the science and engineering practices that the new standards emphasize.

Elementary and K–5 approach District staff said the elementary grades are using Mystery Science kits and…