A Sit Down with PDE’s Science Content Advisor

Discover the "why" that drives Pennsylvania's new Science Content Advisor at PDE. In this episode we sit down with Jason Zimmerman and discuss how we continue to navigate the pivotal transition to the new STEELS standards. We dive into the advisor's journey from the classroom to the Department of Education, revealing a bold vision for the future of science education that bridges the gap between Harrisburg and local educators. Tune in to hear about the new supports and features PDE will be adding to the STEELS Hub.Guest Information:Dr. Jason Zimmerman is the Science Education Advisor for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Division of Instructional Quality at the Pennsylvania Department of Education. He supports statewide implementation of the Pennsylvania K-12 STEELS Standards, working with educators and leaders to advance high-quality, three-dimensional science instruction. His work also focuses on instructional leadership, professional learning design, and building coherent systems that support sensemaking, student discourse, and equitable science learning opportunities.Dr. Zimmerman began his career as an elementary educator and district-level science coordinator before serving as a STEM Teaching and Learning Consultant at Lancaster-Lebanon IU13. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University, and a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations from Vanderbilt University.Resources:PDE STEELS HubScience Community on the SAS Portal