One of the major problems cited by many science teachers (grades K-12) is their sense of isolation due to the lack of a professional network of colleagues. This is particularly true for Nebraska, where vast distances separate our schools. Creating a statewide Nebraska network of advocates for science and science education will provide the infrastructure to prevent the isolation of science teachers.

The National Science Teachers Association’s program, Building a Presence for Science (BaP), helps states establish statewide, internet-based and information-sharing networks. The intent of these networks is to provide teachers with resources, mentors, and professional development opportunities that enhance science teaching and learning. Currently 13 states and the District of Columbia participate in BaP and have formed networks of science teachers. A cadre of Key Leaders in each state and a Point of Contact for Science in every public and private school building forms each state’s network. BaP helps schools develop standards-based learning environments by providing teachers with the resources needed to successfully implement both their state standards and the National Science Education Standards.

Nebraska has been dedicated to connecting the state’s schools to each other and to the world via the Internet. Beginning in 1993, while the state worked on connections, schools acquired the software and hardware necessary to get on-line. As a result, Nebraska leads the nation in connectivity through the use of existent frame relay circuits.

Since the tools (hardware, software, and connectivity) are in place, Nebraska science educators are ready for the next step: the creation of a human and electronic network of advocates for science and science education. The purpose of this network is to promote the implementation of Nebraska L.E.A.R.N.S. and national science education standards through inquiry-based science in the classroom. The foundation for this network will be built using internet-based, information-sharing technology and Nebraska citizens actively involved in science and science education. This collaborative effort will be coordinated by the Nebraska Association of Teachers of Science (NATS) and the Nebraska Department of Education. It will also depend upon the involvement of the Nebraska Junior Academy of Sciences (NJAS), science educators K-12 (public and nonpublic), science researchers (University, College, Junior College, and private sector), informal science resources (zoos, museums, 4-H, extension offices, etc.), Educational Service Units, the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), Mid-continent Regional Educational Laboratory High Plains Consortium (McREL HPC), and business communities.
The Building a Presence for Science in Nebraska network will help schools become active participants in science education reform. In addition, teachers for all disciplines will have an immediate resource for science (the Point of Contact) to help integrate science into the entire school instructional program. With an advocate for science in every school building, the district will have identified a cohesive cadre of individuals who are both knowledgeable about Nebraska L.E.A.R.N.S. and committed to improving science education for all students. Districts can use the Point of Contact/Key Leader network as they work to improve science teaching and learning.

As of June 9, 1999, the state of Nebraska was comprised of the following school districts: Public (604), non-Public (226), ESU (18), and state operated (5), for a total of 853 school districts. The 1998-1999 student populations were: Public (289,984), non-Public (42,736), ESU (691), and state operated (461), for a total of 333,872 students in grades K-12. Based on this data, Building a Presence for Science in Nebraska will require a State Director, 25-30 Key Leaders, and 750-900 Points of Contact.

Building a Presence for Science in Nebraska, a powerful human and electronic network, will provide teachers with easy access to resources and colleagues across the state and nation. Having a network of advocates that promotes science and science education greatly enhances every student’s opportunity to achieve success. Building a Presence for Science in Nebraska will help teachers, administrators, parents, communities, and state officials realize their shared vision of scientific literacy for all.