Writing in Nature (August 29, 2017), Brandon Haught urged the scientific community to redouble its efforts to support science educators. A high school science teacher in Florida, Haught is the communications director for the grassroots Florida Citizens for Science, the author of Going Ape: Florida's Battles Over Evolution in the Classroom (University Press of Florida, 2014) and a recipient of NCSE's Friend of Darwin award.
"Hey, scientists, beleaguered high-school science teachers could use your support," Haught implored. "We need scientists who are willing to take the time and effort to push back against the textbook challenges that these new laws [in Florida] will encourage. We need expert advisers eager to review and recommend quality science textbooks for our schools. We need bold scientists ready to state unapologetically that evolution, global warming — and, yes, even a round Earth — are facts of life."
Even small actions are helpful, Haught stressed: "Sign up for action alerts from the National Center for Science Education and your state's science-advocacy group, if you have one. Be a voice within any organizations you belong to, urging them to make statements supporting science education as issues arise. Introduce yourself to teachers at local elementary and high schools. Even if all you have to offer are ideas and emotional support, we'll take them."