Dedicated to designing sustainable systems to prioritize science in elementary settings
About
The ASCEND K–5 project, based out of the Lawrence Hall of Science’s Center for K–12 Science, is committed to addressing the persistent challenges facing science teaching and learning in elementary schools. Building on the momentum of recent reports including NASEM’s Science and Engineering in Preschool Through Elementary Grades: The Brilliance of Children and the Strengths of Educators and the Call to Action for Science Education, ASCEND K–5 brings together researchers, education leaders, and practitioners who are dedicated to taking tangible actions to prioritize equitable access to K–5 science in their systems.
Upcoming Events
Spring 2026: NSTA, NSELA, and CSSS Conferences, Anaheim, CA
The ASCEND K-5 project team will facilitate several sessions at the national science conferences in Anaheim. We’d love to connect with you!
- NSELA – April 15: Advocacy and Leadership: Resources to Accelerate K–5 Science Education Through Networks and Design (ASCEND K-5)
- NSTA – April 16: It’s a Win-Win: Spending Time on Elementary Science Supports Achievement Across Subject Areas
- NSTA – April 16: Three Transformative Leadership Practices for Prioritizing Elementary Science
Ongoing Virtual Gatherings (starting March 2026)
As a result of overwhelming feedback to continue the connections and conversations from the Regional Convening, ASCEND K-5 Network members will have the option to participate in a cadence of virtual gatherings.
- ASCEND K-5 Network: Community Discussion
- A lightly-facilitated opportunity to share strategies, discuss challenges, and brainstorm solutions.
- ASCEND K-5 Network: Consultancy Meeting
- A more structured opportunity to provide feedback on products/ideas related to the ASCEND K-5 project plans.
Project Advisors
The ASCEND K–5 Advisory Board brings together an exceptional group of educators, researchers, and leaders from across the nation, each with a wealth of experience in advancing science education. Members of the advisory board specialize in areas such as curriculum development, instructional leadership, equitable STEM education, and professional learning. Their expertise spans classroom teaching, district administration, and state-level education initiatives, ensuring a deep understanding of both practical and systemic challenges. With backgrounds in science education reform, NGSS-aligned instructional materials evaluation, and the promotion of culturally responsive teaching practices, this board serves as a critical think tank for driving innovation in K–5 science education.
Project Team
The Center for K-12 Science at The Lawrence Hall of Science project team comprises a dedicated team of educators, researchers, and leaders focused on advancing inclusive and equitable science education. The team specializes in the design and implementation of high-quality instructional materials, professional learning experiences, and capacity-building initiatives. With extensive expertise in areas such as systemic science education reform, literacy integration, multilingual learning, and equity-focused teaching practices, the team collaborates with schools and districts nationwide to transform science education through research-based strategies and innovative approaches.