Now Accepting Applications for the RISE Science Leadership Academy

Now Accepting Applications for the RISE Science Leadership Academy

The Results-driven Initiatives for Science Education (RISE) Science Leadership Academy, hosted by the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) science consultants, aims to cultivate a network of teacher leaders who engage in meaningful, curriculum-based professional learning to enhance science instruction across Kentucky. By leveraging high-quality instructional resources (HQIR) and modeling intellectual preparation, RISE will empower educators to implement three-dimensional, inquiry-based science teaching effectively.   

Participating teacher leaders and district administrators will collaborate through structured in-person and virtual sessions focused on unit and lesson internalization, effective instructional strategies, and formative assessment practices. This initiative not only builds teacher leadership capacity but also fosters a coherent K-12 vision for science education, ensuring alignment with the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science.  By capturing success stories and developing actionable resources, RISE will provide statewide support, equipping districts with the tools needed to sustain impactful science teaching and learning.  

Up to five districts, that have adopted an HQIR in at least one grade band, will be selected to assemble a team of science teacher leaders. While a district may not have adopted an HQIR in all grade bands, each grade band must be willing to pilot a unit from an HQIR. Each district team will consist of five members, with one representative from each of the following roles:  

  • Primary science teacher leader  
  • Intermediate science teacher leader   
  • Middle science teacher leader  
  • High school science teacher leader  
  • District or school level leader  

These educators will collaborate to strengthen science instruction and drive meaningful changes in their district.  RISE is a year-long learning experience designed to support and empower selected district team leaders. To ensure the greatest impact, participants are expected to attend all of the following sessions:  

  • Virtual onboarding session: May 15, 4:30-6:30 p.m. ET  
  • In-person sessions: July 22 and 23, 8:30-4:00 p.m. ET  
  • Virtual sessions:  
    • October 21, 4:30-6:30 p.m. ET   
    • November 18, 4:30-6:30 p.m. ET   
    • February 24, 4:30-6:30 p.m. ET  
  • In-person session: March 24, 8:30-4 p.m. ET  
  • Virtual wrap-up session: April 21, 4:30-6:30 p.m. ET  

Note: These dates and times are tentative and subject to change.   

KDE will reimburse districts for substitute costs for the in-person session in March and will cover travel mileage for all participants and provide lodging and meal reimbursements for those traveling over 40 miles.  

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the RISE Science Leadership Academy. Complete the RISE Science Leadership Academy application by the end of the day, Wednesday April 23. Selected districts will be notified by April 30. For any questions contact kdescience@education.ky.gov.