Back to School with SOCED—supporting K–12 chemistry education this fall

As we enter September, our thoughts turn to the opening of the new school year and the excitement and challenges that await educators and learners. I was one of those kids who loved the first day of school, not only because of the opportunity to reconnect with friends but also because of the anticipation of meeting my new teachers and discovering new things in the classroom. My greatest excitement was always for science, and this was especially true after I had my first real introduction to chemistry in middle school. My enthusiasm for chemistry continued as I entered high school—and I was fortunate to have teachers at that level who supported my interests and ambitions with equal enthusiasm. As the 2024–25 academic year begins, the American Chemical Society and the Society Committee on Education (SOCED) look forward to serving and supporting learners and educators at all levels, including K–12. The