Classroom Science Performance Assessment Development Panels

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The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is seeking educators to serve as members of the Classroom Science Performance Assessment Development Panels. There will be four panels that contribute to the development of classroom science performance assessments for different grade bands: K–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12.

Applications are due by 5:00 pm Friday, December 13, 2024.

This is an exciting opportunity to have a voice in the creation of classroom science performance assessments for educators to use across the Commonwealth. These performance assessments bundle standards in a coherent way and require students to apply their knowledge, skills, and abilities to an authentic scenario. They include grade-level appropriate hands-on investigations, group work, and creative student products related to real-world problems. See the classroom science performance assessments the Department has developed for grades 3–8 so far on our webpage.

Panel members will be directly involved in assisting the Department with the process of developing and refining classroom science performance assessments for their panel's grade band over the next two school years. DESE is looking to select from a diverse pool of candidates.

For each Classroom Science Performance Assessment Development Panel (K–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12), we are looking for candidates with science teaching experience that have…

• grade band-specific content expertise,
• expertise with using phenomenon-based instruction,
• familiarity with the MA STE Curriculum Frameworks,
• a belief that evidence-based instruction can empower students,
• experience and understanding of culturally and linguistically sustaining practices in the classroom and experience in a diverse education environment.

We strongly encourage science educators who have diverse backgrounds and who teach groups of diverse students to apply.

Panel Members' Roles and Responsibilities

Panel members will contribute to the development of classroom science performance assessments for their grade band at various stages of development. This may include:

• brainstorming possible phenomena/problems that could be explained using a specific bundle of standards;
• reviewing and providing input on initial drafts for content accuracy, cultural responsiveness, and grade level appropriateness;
• piloting draft versions of performance assessments with students; and
• rangefinding (coming up with consensus scores) using student work samples to update the scoring rubrics.

Reimbursement, Stipends, and Professional Development Points

With the exception of our in-person kickoff meeting on January 30, 2025, we expect to hold all meetings during the school year virtually on weekdays after 3pm. Participants will be paid an honorarium (stipend) with a maximum of $1300 depending on the number of meetings they attend. Members will be reimbursed for travel expenses including mileage for the in-person kickoff meeting and any summer in-person meetings. DESE will reimburse districts for substitute teacher costs up to $200/day for meetings that take place during the school day. Members also receive professional development points for their service.

Meeting Schedule and Commitments

Each Panel consists of approximately 10-12 educators. The membership term will run for two school years, starting January 2025 through June 2026. Members are expected to attend all assigned meetings (see anticipated meeting frequency for 2025 below).

Application Procedure

1. Ask your supervisor if they will support you serving on a Classroom Science Performance Assessment Development Panel. You will be representing your school/district, higher education institution, or organization.

And

2. Complete the online application through which you will provide more information about your background, a statement of interest, and your résumé: Classroom Science Performance Assessment Development Panel Application

All applicants must gain approval from their supervisor to serve on a panel prior to completing the online application.

The deadline for completion of the online application and the submission of all materials is Friday, December 13, 2024 at 5pm. Notifications will be sent by January 6, 2025. Upon selection, successful applicants will be sent invitations for meeting dates and be asked to confirm attendance.

Questions? contact corrine.m.steever@mass.gov

Last Updated: November 1, 2024