Perkiomen Valley School District is in the process of evaluating curricula in the areas of science, technology, and engineering(STEM, minus the math). We invite you to provide us with your thoughts on the current K-12 STEM offerings as well as your suggestions for where we can focus upon developing stronger experiences. Thank you for your time in completing this survey.

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* 1. What grade level is your child? If you have more than one child in our schools, please select all that apply.

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* 2. What school does he/she attend? If you have more than one child in our schools, select all that apply.

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* 3. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. How important do you believe these subjects are for students?

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* 4. How well-prepared do you feel your student is for the study of science in the upcoming school year?

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* 5. Which of the below topics would help prepare students for STEM careers? Check all that you believe apply.

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* 6. Please rate your school(s) on the extent to which these criteria are observed in practice:

  Not observed Observed to some extent Observed to great extent Don't know Not applicable
Focus on expanding numbers of students who pursue degrees in STEM
Focus on broadening participation of women and minorities in STEM courses
Focus on STEM content knowledge for college/career readiness in the 21st Century

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* 7. Please rate your school(s) on the extent to which these criteria are observed in practice.

  Not observed Observed to some extent Observed to a great extent Don't know Not applicable
Focus on discovering a culture of innovation (e.g. through regular competitions)
Focus on ethical behavior and safe use of the Internet when accessing information or communicating
Connections to the real world such as industry and university partners
Focus on other kinds of science programs such as after-school clubs, mentorships or internships

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* 8. Please rate your school on the extent to which these criteria are observed in practice.

  Not observed Observed to some extent Observed to a great extent Don't know Not applicable
STEM courses are offered that connect content across disciplines (e.g. biochemistry, engineering, math, science)
STEM curricula help teachers and students realize a common vision for 21st Century learning
STEM Instruction places an emphasis on deep understanding rather than comprehensive coverage (fewer topics rather than more)
STEM curricula draws on current research directions (e.g. genetic engineering, nanotechnology)
STEM curricula provide opportunities to learn by addressing problems that have real-world applications
STEM activities focus on making choices for future (STEM) careers including understanding college programs/applications (e.g. career fairs, meetings with counselors)

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* 9. Please rate your school(s) on the extent to which these criteria are observed in practice.

  Not observed Observed to some extent Observed to a great extent Don't know Not applicable
District commitment to developing a STEM teaching workforce that has a high degree of content knowledge and expertise in teaching that content
System of accountability focuses not just on student outcome but also on teacher practices
Adequate instructional time is devoted to STEM teaching and learning, especially at the K-5 level
Science is elevated to the same level of importance as reading and math
Students are exposed to science through a variety of mechanisms (e.g. instruction, assemblies, field trips, extra-curricular, clubs)

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* 10. Do you have any other feedback regarding STEM that you would like to share with us?

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