Science on CA School Dashboard
The California School Dashboard is evolving, and for the first time, science is taking center stage. This isn’t just about one test—it’s about transforming science education from the ground up. Science achievement is now part of the broader accountability system, meaning schools and districts must have systems and structures in place starting from TK and building all the way up to grade 12 and beyond.
At STEM4Real, we believe that science isn’t just another subject—it’s a gateway to real-world learning. But to truly prepare students for the California Science Test (CAST) and other state science assessments, we need to move beyond test prep and into equitable, engaging, and culturally responsive science instruction.
Fighting for Science on the Dashboard
For years, science education advocates have been pushing for science to be included in California’s accountability system. STEM4Real, in partnership with CASE (California Association of Science Educators) and other science organizations, has been actively engaged with the State Board of Education, speaking out on the importance of science education in shaping our students’ futures. We have advocated for systemic change—ensuring that science is not sidelined but prioritized as a critical component of student success. Thanks to the collective efforts of educators, leaders, and organizations committed to STEM equity, science is finally on the dashboard, holding schools accountable for providing high-quality science learning opportunities for all students.
So, what should administrators, schools, and districts be doing right now? Here are three key steps:
1️⃣ Shift from “Teaching to the Test” to Real-World Science Learning
The CAST isn’t about rote memorization—it’s about students applying science and engineering practices to real-world phenomena. If we want to improve science performance, we must focus on engagement and relevance.
Our STEM4Real collaborative study model integrates Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) with culturally responsive teaching, making science meaningful and accessible for all students. We help educators design lessons where students see themselves as scientists, making science more engaging, inquiry-driven, and connected to their lives.
2️⃣ Build a Strong Science Foundation from TK-12
Too often, science instruction doesn’t start in earnest until later grades. But science must be built into the system early—students in TK-5 should be exploring, questioning, and investigating the world around them. Without this foundation, they enter middle and high school unprepared for deeper science learning.
🔹 How STEM4Real Helps: We provide coaching and professional learning that ensures science is taught consistently across all grade levels. We help districts develop aligned, equity-focused systems that integrate language development, literacy, and math with science, so students build skills across subjects.
3️⃣ Address Apathy by Making Science Personal and Powerful
One of the biggest challenges in science education today? Student apathy. When students don’t see how science connects to their lives, they disengage. If we want to change and impact the world, we need to make sure science is exciting, hands-on, and culturally relevant.
🔹 How STEM4Real Helps: Our approach is rooted in STEM + Justice—we help schools design justice-centered science instruction that connects students to real-world issues they care about. Whether it’s climate change, environmental justice, or AI ethics, we make sure science is about problem-solving and action, not just content coverage.
It’s Time to Act
The inclusion of science on the CA School Dashboard is an opportunity to reimagine STEM education—not as a test-driven subject, but as a powerful force for change.
If your district is ready to transform science education and prepare students for the CAST, let’s talk. We’ll help you build a system where every student—regardless of background—has access to high-quality, meaningful science learning.
📩 Schedule a free STEM education strategy call today! www.stem4real.org
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