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Mission , Belief, Vision Statements
Strategic Goals

Mission Statement
The mission of WEST is to support the professional development of educators, enhance the science education of preschool through middle-level children and to promote public understanding and appreciation of science education in all Wisconsin schools.

Belief Statement
Science education promotes critical thinking skills that are vital to scientific literacy:
- clear thinking based on research;
- thorough investigation of assumptions;
- willingness to change our minds in the face of new evidence.
Children benefit directly from professional development of teachers.
Public understanding of science education strengthens the support for student learning.
Networking leads to professional development and support.
Teachers learn best about teaching science from other teachers of science.

Vision Statement:
In the preferred future of WEST:
1. Science is taught well every day in every elementary and middle school classroom in Wisconsin .
2. WEST is recognized as one of the most important players in science education in Wisconsin .
3. WEST has an active, involved member of at least 1000 members, which is increasing by at least 10% per year.
4. WEST has high-quality active leadership which collaborates with other agencies and organizations.
5. WEST provides strong professional development programming which includes multiple services and opportunities considered invaluable by its members.
6. WEST has established a network of contact persons in every Wisconsin elementary and middle school.
7. WEST employs a permanent, at least one-half time executive/administrative support staff.
8. WEST effectively recruits, trains, and supports its Board members and other leaders.

Strategic Goals:
1. WEST will increase the number of members and through effective communication promote active participation in the organization.
2. WEST will create and implement supportive services to its members that will promote effective science education in Wisconsin .
3. The WEST will have a positive influence on legislation and public policy regarding science education in Wisconsin for preschool through middle-level children.
4. WEST will design and implement a leadership development approach which recruits, trains, and supports WEST Board members and other leaders.