Science

Our Teachers

Dedicated to supporting our students’ learning in science and technology

The Science & Technology Department at Grover Cleveland High School provides students with a rigorous, standards‑aligned education that integrates scientific inquiry, engineering practices, and technological innovation. Aligned with the New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) and Regents examinations, our program emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, problem‑solving, and evidence‑based reasoning while preparing students for college, careers, and informed citizenship.

Instruction across biology, chemistry, physics, Earth and space science, and technology courses is grounded in inquiry‑based learning, hands‑on laboratory investigations, and real‑world applications. Students engage with modern scientific tools, digital systems, and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, data modeling, coding, and cybersecurity, to understand how science and technology work together to shape today’s world.

As part of this approach, students are challenged to think and work like scientists, engineers, and technologists: asking meaningful questions, analyzing data, developing and testing models, and applying knowledge to authentic problems. Courses emphasize the use of technology not only as a tool for learning, but also as a subject of study, helping students understand ethical responsibility, innovation, and the impact of technology on society.

Through a comprehensive sequence of Regents, Advanced Placement, dual‑enrollment, elective, and information technology courses, the department supports diverse academic pathways and career interests. Whether preparing for Regents and AP examinations, earning college credit, exploring forensic science or health sciences, or developing skills in computer science, networking, artificial intelligence, and financial literacy, students gain the scientific and technological skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly evolving, technology‑driven world.

SCIENCE CORE COURSES

New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) and the Regents Examinations

New York State has adopted the New York State Science Learning Standards (NYSSLS) to ensure that all students develop a deep understanding of science and engineering that prepares them for college, careers, and informed citizenship. These standards emphasize not just learning scientific facts, but also thinking and working like scientists and engineers — asking questions, analyzing data, developing models, and using evidence to explain real-world phenomena.

As part of this shift, the Regents science examinations are being redesigned to align with NYSSLS. The new exams focus on students’ ability to:

Apply scientific concepts to explain observable phenomena
Analyze and interpret data, graphs, and models
Use evidence and reasoning to support scientific claims
Demonstrate understanding across physical, life, Earth, and space sciences, as well as engineering design

Rather than relying primarily on memorization, the new assessments measure how well students can use what they know in meaningful, authentic contexts which is similar to the way scientists and engineers work in the real world.

This approach supports:

Deeper conceptual understanding
Stronger critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Better preparation for future coursework, careers, and real-life decision-making

Our science program is aligned to these standards so that students are well prepared for both classroom learning and the evolving Regents examinations.

Dr. Tatay

Assistant Principal