Examination of these trends indicates a low representation of teachers with geoscience degrees. Considering that earth science education requirements are met by the majority of students in grades 6-8, the low representation of elementary school teachers with geoscience degrees is cause for concern in regards to the preparation of elementary students for mandatory earth science curriculum in the middle grades, and for priming their interest to take earth science courses in the higher grades. Furthermore, K-12 education provides an important formative stage in a student’s education, and the coursework to which students are exposed during this period (especially during high school) influences choices they make in regards to college majors.

Read more in Geoscience Currents #28.