High School Embraces A New Era of Regents Exams and Classroom Learning

June 19, 2025

 

 

The Cazenovia Central School District is at the forefront of a significant shift in science education, preparing for the full implementation of new Regents Examinations that reflect the New York State P-12 Science Learning Standards. This isn't just a change in test content; it's a fundamental evolution in how students will learn and demonstrate scientific literacy. For the upcoming 2025-26 school year, Cazenovia is particularly focused on pivoting the classroom to a more hands-on and inquiry based learning approach, a key part of this statewide transition.

A New Vision for Scientific Assessment

The core of these new learning standards is a move away from rote memorization and toward a deeper engagement with scientific concepts. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) is looking for students to generate their own ideas, develop plans and show contemplation about what they are learning. This means the state labs and assessments will challenge students to:

• Interpret and analyze data: Identifying patterns and drawing conclusions from visual displays of data such as graphs, charts, and maps.

• Formulate hypotheses: Developing testable predictions based on observations and carrying out investigations to test such hypotheses.

• Propose solutions: Applying data and evidence to develop design solutions for real-world challenges.

This approach aims to cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills, mirroring the work of actual scientists and engineers. Reflecting on this change, Cazenovia's veteran science teacher, Kyle Martin, said, "It's nice that the future is problem-based and encourages students to think critically."

Transforming the Cazenovia Classroom

To meet these new demands, science classrooms in the high school will look different. Expect more hands-on laboratory work, outside explorations and local field trips. As Sierra Tweedie, one of Cazenovia's new science educators (8th Grade Science and Earth Science), describes, this could involve activities like walking to Chittenango Creek to observe weathering and erosion in action and record meteorological data for local “weather reports”. These immersive experiences will provide students with direct observation and investigation opportunities, fostering a more profound understanding of scientific principles.

Cazenovia is well-prepared for this shift, thanks to its dedicated science team. Kyle Martin, a longtime veteran of the high school science program, brings extensive experience and understanding of Cazenovia's student body, which will be invaluable in adapting instruction and supporting students through this exciting transition. Working alongside him is Sierra Tweedie, who recently completed her Master's at Ithaca College and brings cutting-edge knowledge, with her program specifically incorporating the new state science standards and testing. This academic foundation is further enriched by her prior experience as an environmental consulting geologist, where her work on diverse projects—including remediation, contaminant monitoring, and environmental assessments for energy sources—provides invaluable real-world context for students.

What Parents Can Expect

Parents should anticipate a curriculum that emphasizes more engaging learning experiences designed to meet the diverse needs of all students. This change may present new challenges for some, as the focus shifts from simply knowing facts to actively applying scientific practices.

The goal of Cazenovia's science teachers will be to ignite student curiosity, encouraging them to ask probing questions and observe how different pieces of information connect to form a comprehensive understanding.

More Regent Changes

Beyond Earth & Space Sciences, other significant Regents exams are planned to roll out in June 2026, such as Life Science: Biology, Algebra II, Chemistry, Physical Science: Physics, and English Language Arts (ELA).

"These skills—curiosity, questioning and synthesizing information—are not just valuable for science," Martin said. "They are essential for success in any academic pursuit and in life beyond the classroom."