National Center on Education and the Economy
Science Teachers Embrace Career-Connected Project-Based Learning to Empower and Engage Students
When young people see how what they are learning applies beyond the classroom, they become more engaged and better prepared for the future. Career-connected, project-based learning (PBL) brings science to life by inviting students to investigate authentic questions while exploring the people, industries, and innovations shaping their communities.
Through a grant from All Points North Foundation, Educurious, part of the National Center on Education and the Economy (NCEE), is partnering with Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District’s (HCISD) Coakley Middle School to reimagine middle school science. Drawing on more than 35 years of research on the world’s highest-performing education systems, NCEE applies evidence-based practices that strengthen teaching and create meaningful learning experiences. Students will explore how science powers industries that are central to the Rio Grande Valley, including health sciences, agriculture, and renewable energy.
The Pathways to Possibility program will build teachers’ capacity to design and deliver authentic learning experiences that reflect these regional opportunities. Students will investigate local issues, collaborate with community and industry partners, and apply scientific thinking to solve real problems. The program helps them imagine themselves as tomorrow’s scientists, engineers, and innovators.
Located in Texas’ Rio Grande Valley, HCISD serves a vibrant, predominantly Hispanic community where “passion meets purpose” with an innovative academy approach to prepare students for a globally connected future-ready world. Here, many students will be the first in their families to pursue emerging career pathways. Through sustained professional learning, coaching, and a collaborative educator learning community, teachers will strengthen their practice in standards-aligned science PBL, creating classrooms where curiosity, inquiry and real-world problem solving are part of everyday learning.
Together, the NCEE, HCISD, All Points North Foundation and community partners are creating a model for career-connected science education that can grow across the district and beyond. By investing in educators, strengthening community partnerships and expanding opportunities for students, the initiative will help build a lasting foundation for future generations.
For more information: www.ncee.org
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All Points North Foundation
All Points North Foundation provides grants for U.S.-based projects and initiatives that support our priorities: improving public middle school education and teacher training, and implementing effective solar programs and/or projects.
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