What to Expect in the 2026–27 School Year
The 2026–27 school year marks the transition from planning to active implementation of the Driving Possibilities work. Schools will be supported through clear leadership structures, sustained professional learning, and close partnership with PIMSER.
Strong School-Based Leadership
• Each school operates with a Driving Possibilities Leadership Team (DPLT)
• Teams include the principal, Master Teachers, and other key staff
• Teams meet monthly to guide and monitor STEM improvement efforts
• PIMSER partners attend and support leadership team meetings
Support for Principals as Instructional Leaders
Ongoing partnership with PIMSER to support K–12 instructional leadership
• Focus on leading effective PLCs and supporting High-Quality Instructional Resources (HQIRs)
• Five full-day principal network meetings during the school year (approximately 10:00–2:00)
• Time to collaborate with peers, share challenges, and learn from one another
Master Teacher Leadership & Growth
• Master Teachers continue structured leadership development
• Serve as mentors and instructional supports for colleagues
• Work closely with principals to strengthen STEM teaching and learning
• Play a key role in onboarding and supporting new teachers
Support for New Mathematics & Science Teachers
• New teachers (0–3 years) receive targeted onboarding and mentoring
• Support provided through release days, coaching, and collaboration
• Goal is to build confidence, effectiveness, and long-term retention
Professional Learning for All Math & Science Teachers
• Customized professional learning aligned to teachers’ instructional materials
• Summer 2027 kickoff
• Focus on student sensemaking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication
Big Picture Impact
• Schools build internal capacity to sustain high-quality STEM instruction
• Teachers feel supported and confident rather than overwhelmed
• Students experience engaging, rigorous STEM learning across classrooms
• The project is designed for long-term impact beyond the grant period