Rep. Barbara McLachlan recently secured bipartisan support for legislation aimed at enhancing science education in K-12 schools. The bill, HB24-1446, will provide no-cost professional development programs to science educators, focusing on supporting students who are below grade level, have disabilities, or are English Language Learners.

McLachlan, a former teacher herself, emphasized the importance of such programs in helping educators engage all students effectively. She highlighted the significance of ensuring that teachers can better support students with disabilities or those who may be struggling academically. The bill also passed with strong bipartisan support.

HB24-1446 enables the Colorado Department of Education to partner with higher education institutions to offer free professional development training for science educators. The program will cover interventions for students facing academic challenges in science, including those with disabilities and English Language Learners. Participants may also earn credits towards license renewal, with a priority given to rural schools if demand exceeds capacity.

If enacted, the program will launch in the 2025-26 school year and aim to improve K-12 science performance among Colorado students by equipping teachers with the necessary tools and resources to better meet the diverse needs of their students and promote academic success across the state.