This presentation explores how to build a school-wide culture where students lead the way in science learning—shifting from passive receivers of information to active investigators. Rooted in research-based instructional design, this session blends inspirational leadership stories with practical strategies to foster classrooms where students drive learning from initial curiosity to evidence-based conclusions. Participants will engage with frameworks that emphasize phenomena-driven instruction, collaborative sensemaking, and iterative problem-solving, aligning with NGSS and STEM best practices. Leaders and instructional coaches will explore how to support and sustain these shifts using tools such as Danielson-aligned observations, instructional walkthroughs, and collaborative planning structures that promote consistency, rigor, and equity across classrooms. Emphasis is placed on how leadership can cultivate teacher mindsets that center student agency and deeper learning. Through real-world examples—like student-led investigations, research challenges, and community-based problem solving—participants will leave with both the inspiration and a clear roadmap to lead science instruction with purpose. This 90-minute session equips leaders with actionable techniques to cultivate an inquiry-driven, high-achievement science culture where students confidently take ownership of their learning journey.
Feriha Kazmi is an educator and instructional leader currently serving as a Regional Instructional Coach and Career & Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator for Concept Schools. In this role, she supports school leaders and teachers across the network in building high-quality, purpose-driven... Read More →
Esra Solmaz is the Assistant Principal of STEM & Career and Technical Education (CTE) at Horizon Science Academy McKinley Park in Chicago, Illinois. With over a decade oAf teaching experience spanning middle and high school levels, she has instructed subjects such as General Science... Read More →
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT Wildrye
