Institutes

The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) presents its Leaders Institute, a specialized professional development experience designed for building, curriculum, and district leaders who are new to three-dimensional science learning as captured in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and related state frameworks. This institute addresses a critical need in science education: while classroom teachers increasingly receive training in NGSS-aligned instruction, school and district leaders often lack the deep understanding of three-dimensional science learning needed to effectively support, evaluate, and sustain these instructional shifts. The Leaders Institute focuses on how leaders can use high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) paired with curriculum-based professional learning to ensure effective science teaching across their schools and systems. Participants work collaboratively with peers to develop strategies for making the case for change toward more equitable science education systems, evaluating and selecting high-quality instructional materials, providing professional learning for initial implementation, and building the internal capacity needed for sustained, effective implementation over time. For principals, curriculum directors, and district leaders who want to lead their science programs with confidence and clarity, this institute provides the knowledge and strategic frameworks needed to move from compliance to genuine instructional improvement in science education.