Superintendent of Public Instruction, Washington State

I want all students in our state to have science and love it. We need scientifically literate citizens who can think and solve problems. Career-wide, we need far more scientists, engineers, and technology experts. We need education for sustainability. Puget Sound is dying and we need to bring it back to life. Transportation is a nightmare problem that must be solved. We have a water shortage, growing poverty and health care problems. Our kids must be ready to tackle these issues with a solid science knowledge base, with the skills of inquiry and with inquiring minds. Young people must be learners for a life time and well taught science will contribute to that goal. Our future depends on it.

Statements for the Washington science education leadership reflecting our support of Terry Bergeson as an advocate of science education: Terry's nomination and support comes from teachers of science and administrators across the state that know Terry as a visionary leader, teacher and steward of science education. They tell us,

• "She is my hero. Terry cares about kids. She believes in them. She set standards for them that give them a future."
• "From the beginning of Washington's efforts to respond to goals set forth in 1993 by House Bill 1209, she has helped us develop our effort to establish standards, assessment, accountability systems and the technical assistance and professional development programs needed to help all students attain science literacy."
• "She has stayed the course against enormous odds and has garnered the respect of people and agencies across the country."
• "She continues to advocate for children and their complete education in an environment where a less visionary leader might turn away from the needs of students to the nay-sayers who wish less for the children of Washington than a deep and well rounded education including inquiry-based science."
• "Terry has always been more than generous with her time for science. Terry has steadfastly recognized and advocated for the importance of all subjects, especially science."
• "Terry understands that math and science are core subjects, not optional. She knows that a solid foundation in these areas will give kids the skills they need for opening doors to further education, making informed decisions about the world they live in, and helping to keep our community economically and environmentally healthy."
• "Terry knows that great teaching comes when teachers and administrators are empowered. Her support of children through the professional development of their teachers is well documented through her support of Washington State LASER. That support has permitted small, rural districts the same opportunity to participate in the LASER initiative that large, urban districts have. That support has facilitated a common vision for science education, k-12, that encourages rethinking of how higher education does its work in the area of science support for the public schools and in educating future scientists."
• "As a steward and advocate Terry stands and holds a place for all children. She sees that all children and teachers have the opportunity to grow and develop. No matter our race, gender, income level or abilities, Terry put a place card at the table for all of us."
• "I am honored to know Terry as my leader in educational reform, including science education reform, and as a friend not only to me, but to all educators and their students. I know that she shares our passion and joy for science education and learning. She is very deserving of this award and we are lucky to have her."