The National Center for Science Education's Emily Schoerning has reflected on the group's efforts to provide students with quality science education this past year and expressed goals for next year in a recent blog post detailing the success of the Science Booster Clubs.

One of NCSE's major goals is to ensure that all students are being taught the science behind both climate change and evolution.

Shortly after the latest presidential election results were announced, NCSE's Ann Reid took to the group’s blog to describe the group's determination to fight back against a political rhetoric counter to quality science education.

[Read: National Survey Reveals Many Teachers Misinformed About Science Behind Climate Change]

"It's not hard to make the argument that a good science education might be one of the most important tools for bringing hope and opportunity," Reid said.

In order to provide this quality science instruction, Reid said the group will "continue to support teachers through our teacher network," will "continue to partner graduate students with teachers to bring authentic science to classrooms," and will "expand the NCSE Science Booster Club program, which has been proven to work, even in red country."

Schoerning elaborated on both how the clubs have been successful so far, and how NCSE plans to expand in 2017 in her post.

"In December 2016, we've been engaged in a big push for expansion, thanks to the funds and connections supporters contributed in a huge outpouring of generosity following the election in early November. As we promised our donors at the time, we are now moving westwards in a big way," Schoerning said.

After starting Booster Clubs in Iowa 18 months ago, NCSE says they've engaged over 50,000 with fun and respectful activities that focus on the science behind climate change and evolution.

In 2017, the group hopes to reach even more rural areas with new partnerships.

"We have . . . connected with the Iowa Governor's STEM Advisory Council, an organization that helps coordinate STEM events throughout the state. This connection will give us access to a significant number of rural festivals, allowing us to get a foot in the door at pretty much every rural community we can physically reach," Schoerning said.

Those interested can find out how to support Science Booster Clubs here.

Nicole Gorman, Senior Education World Contributor

12/21/2016