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April 24, 2008
Texas Education Agency hires new science director
AUSTIN – Commissioner of Education Robert Scott announced today that Kenneth W. Heydrick will become the Texas Education Agency’s director of science, effective July 1.
Heydrick will provide project management to support the State Board of Education in the revision of the current K-12 science curriculum standards, including the development of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for new engineering and earth/space science courses. He will also work closely with colleagues in the Division of Student Assessment to provide input on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) and end-of-course exams.
"With 25 years of experience in education and numerous appointments in both state and national science organizations, Dr. Heydrick brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this position," Scott said. "He is a widely acclaimed science expert in Texas and we are proud to welcome him to TEA."
Heydrick’s experience includes 10 years as a high school science teacher, editor of a biology textbook, and science curriculum coordinator in several Texas school districts. He has most recently served as the curriculum coordinator of science and health at Pflugerville Independent School District.
In addition, he has held numerous leadership positions and is a member of several professional organizations, including the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA), National Science Foundation (NSF), Texas Science Education Leadership Association (TSELA) and the Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT). He has also served on the State Board of Education’s earth science task force.
Heydrick has also been honored as the recipient of the Outstanding Leadership in Science Education Award at both the national and state level.
Heydrick holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from the University of Houston, a master’s degree in education and a bachelor of arts degree in biology from Northern Illinois University.
Contact:
Division of Communications
1701 N. Congress Avenue
Austin, Texas 78757
Phone: (512) 463-9000
E-mail: teainfo@tea.state.tx.us