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Science

Science Research.

Science Department

The Ballston Spa Central School District Science Department is committed to:

    • Preparing all students to be responsible and informed citizens in a world that is increasingly affected by advancements in science and technology. 
       
    • Preparing all students to be scientifically literate so they can comprehend, analyze, and meaningfully participate in the debate of scientific issues.
       
    • Developing students’ critical thinking and analytical skills through research and the use of the scientific method in laboratory activities.
       
    • Developing students’ awareness of the types of opportunities that would be available for them to pursue in the traditional sciences as well as the emerging fields of science. 

In addition to the core sciences of Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry and Physics; our department offers students the chance to explore some of the emerging applied sciences such as Biomedical Science and Forensics.  Students also have the opportunity during their junior and senior years to study  Environmental Science, Sustainability and Nanotechnology through the Clean Technologies and Sustainable Industries Early College High School Program. 

Animal Dissection Policy

The Board of Education of the Ballston Spa Central School District recognizes that the study of living things is essential to effective instruction in the life sciences. |

The Board recognizes that some students may have a moral or religious objection to the performance or witness of the dissection of an animal.  In accordance with Section 809 of the Education Law, students shall have the right to object to and opt out of dissection activities.  In order to do so, the student’s parent or legal guardian must place their objection in writing with a detailed explanation of the moral or religious basis for the objection to such dissection.  If a student opts out of a dissection, either wholly or in part, he or she shall be required to undertake and complete an alternative project that shall be approved by the student’s teacher.  No student shall be penalized for not performing or witnessing the dissection of an animal. 

At the start of the school year, teachers of courses that include animal dissection shall give notice to the students in those classes of their opt-out rights and responsibilities under the law and this policy.