STEM educationDoD invests in STEM education
The Department of Defense (DOD) is making an investment to ensure military children have access to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education with the expansion of the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) College Readiness Program. The program has experienced an 82 percent increase in qualifying advanced placement math and science scores in just the first year of the College Readiness Program for military-connected children. DOD notes that thanks the expanded program, an additional 17,000 military-connected students will have access to STEM education, bringing the program’s total impact to 50,000 military-connected students throughout the nation.
From cell phones to household computers, STEM keeps the world connected. The Department of Defense (DOD) says it is making an investment to ensure military children have access to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education with the expansion of the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) College Readiness Program.
Teachers and military students gathered at the vice president’s home in Washington, D.C., Monday, for the launch of the expanded program in partnership with the Joining Forces program started by First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden.
Matthew Randazzo, interim CEO of NMSI, announced the program has experienced an 82 percent increase in qualifying advanced placement math and science scores in just the first year of the College Readiness Program for military-connected children. Recognizing its importance, the DoD is now making sure that even more military kids will have access to the program.
“Thanks to new funding commitments made by the Department of Defense and a coalition of match partners, NMSI’s College Readiness Program for military families will now expand to serve 85 percent of a network of 200 military-connected schools in 35 states across the United States,” Randazzo said.
Vice President Joe Biden thanked NMSI supporters for the work they are doing to expand the College Readiness Program to prevent the children of active duty military from falling behind in their education.
“On average, military kids move every two years and attend between six and nine schools before they finish high school, and it takes a toll. It is also the thing that equips them when they succeed to be the most versatile and competent people in our society,” Biden added.
The increased NMSI program will broaden access to rigorous advanced placement courses in math, science, and English, which NASA astronauts say is vital to their industry.
On the ground, NASA astronaut Kay Hire mingled with the students and encouraged them to continue their STEM education.
One student putting STEM in action is Taylor Smith. A Maryland high school senior and daughter of Army veterans, Smith plans to pursue a career in computer engineering to make new cell phones.
“Science and technology are important to me because it’s basically the future of everything. Everything starts with technology. The NMSI program is honestly one of the best programs out there. It’s advanced. It’s great for everyone,” Smith said.
DOD notes that thanks the expanded program, an additional 17,000 military-connected students will have access to STEM education, bringing the program’s total impact to 50,000 military-connected students throughout the nation.
