Predicated on the belief that scientific literacy is required for personal decision making, participation in civic and cultural affairs, and economic productivity, the mission of the Centennial High School Science Department is to provide students with educational experiences that are (a) inquiry based, (b) guided and facilitated by teachers, (c) evaluated by ongoing assessment, (d) managed to provide them with time, space, and resources to engage in scientific learning, (e) designed to reflect intellectual rigor and social values within a community of science learners, and (f) actively developed by fully certified and highly qualified teachers. The mission statement is based on the National Science Education Standards. Details are available in The National Committee on Science Education Standards and Assessment. (1966). National science education standards. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press.