Abstract
This article is based on a presentation given at the International Week Conference, held at Pädagogische Hochschule Niederösterreich, Melk, in May, 2017. Rigorous science education at the elementary school level is increasingly important. In the United States, there are several historical factors that impede quality elementary science education. This paper briefly addresses the current issues in elementary science education and provides an overview of one project that is working to support the development of practicing elementary science teachers.