Our History
For over three decades, we have worked to ensure that what is taught in science classrooms and beyond is accurate and consistent with the best current understanding of the scientific community.
For over three decades, we have worked to ensure that what is taught in science classrooms and beyond is accurate and consistent with the best current understanding of the scientific community.
NCSE forms in 1981 with the purpose of serving as a national coordinating center for local grassroots pro-science organizations working to prevent creationism from being taught alongside or instead of evolution.
Eugenie C. Scott, a physical anthropologist, becomse the organization’s first Executive Director and its first full-time employee.
NCSE is profiled in The New York Times and garners national attention.
NCSE is a driving force for the plaintiffs in the landmark 2005 case Kitzmiller v. Dover, which established the unconstitutionality of teaching “intelligent design” in public schools.
NCSE hires a staff member to focus exclusively on providing support and resources to science teachers. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR TEACHER SUPPORT PROGRAM
NCSE adds climate change to its mission after it becomes clear that politicization of the topic is affecting how it is being taught.
Ann Reid, director of the American Academy of Microbiology, is named NCSE's new Executive Director.
NCSE, with researchers from Penn State University, conducts the first nationwide survey of climate education in public schools, which shows only 30% of science teachers provide their student with the scientific consensus on the human causes of recent climate change. READ OUR WHITE PAPER ABOUT THE SURVEY
NCSE expands its reach to educators with the publication of a monthly newsletter
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NCSE pilots its first volunteer-led outreach effort in Iowa City, Iowa. These local affiliates provide accessible and fun evolution and climate change activities and help break down the barriers to science and science education that can sometimes exist in local communities. Find OUt More About our Breaking Down Barriers Program
NCSE unveils a capacity-building model focused on equipping master teachers with high-quality lesson plans and professional development opportunities to give colleagues and peers the skills and confidence they need to teach evolution and climate change. Meet Our Teacher Ambassadors
NCSE updates the names for its three core programs: Breaking Down Barriers is the new name for its outreach work, Catalyzing Action defines its efforts to monitor and mobilize against anti-science legislation, and Supporting Teachers encompasses its direct work with science educators.