NV Math & Science
Resource Sites
WERC work in Nevada is focused on Mathematics and Science curriculum and assessment development work, participating in efforts to provide educators with a knowledge of internet resources and online communities, and providing technical assistance to other reform efforts in the state. Most recently, the main WERC effort in Nevada has been targeted to assisting with the development of Nevada State High School Math and Science Proficiency Exams.

WERC activities in Nevada include:

  • Facilitating the development and piloting of the State High School Proficiency Exams in Mathematics and Science.
    Nevada's Education Reform Act (NERA) raised the stakes for the state's entire education community by linking the existing high school exit examination to the more rigorous content standards. While WERC already provided the Nevada Department of Education with technical support for standards development, its work has now expanded to forcus on assessment as well.

  • Professional Development
    WERC staff also support Nevada Professional Development efforts whenever possible. Our professional development work in Nevada includes "Learning from Assessment training for math and science leaders, and setting up EdGateway online communities for teacher leaders. In the past, WERC has participated in Nevada Rural Science Leadership Institutes, working with teachers and principals from rural districts in using Professional Development Cases, and using Internet resources in science instruction and professional development. WERC has also supported KNPB's National Teacher Training Institutes.

  • Facilitated the development of the Nevada Science Education Standards
    WERC staff worked with the Framework committee over a period of two years to draft, revise and refine the Nevada Science Education Standards. Seventy-two educators, business and community representatives were directly involved in the writing and editing of the Standards. Many others were involved as reviewers. WERC also created an interactive on-line version of the NDE Draft Science Framework, to enable educators throughout the state to read and comment on the K-12 draft.