Posted by Shawn Graville on March 23, 2013, 4:43 pm, in reply to "Shown Graville"
I believe we need to really look at how we are introducing math and science to our children. A lot of students will say they hate math and science. I believe this may be because they see it as just homework and tests. We need to introduce these subjects to our students as real life applications/problems. In the FIRST programs students are challenged with real world applications. They get to see first hand how math and science effect every day lives. Granted these programs are after school, so that is only half the battle. We need to get the teachers on board and possibly try to implement some of these programs into the curriculum. I do not believe we need to just stop there. We should be constantly looking to improve ways in which our children can be challenged and inspired. Those programs also incorporate a lot of mentoring and meeting with actual engineers and scientists from companies like Boeing and monsanto. Throughout my education and work experience I have built many relationships with people in these fields and I believe I can help get these programs off the ground. My website goes into more about what I would like to see with regard to improving math and science.
I believe software development is very important to the STEM plan. I would love to see students (especially at an earlier age) more involved and interested in programing. This is an area in which currently our district does not have adequate resources, but once again I have found there are grants available for this as well.
I know one thing voters may be thinking, "This sounds great and all, but how is this possible with further budget cuts looming?" These programs have funding available so there will be no addition to the budget. I also have some specific ideas in which to help lower the current deficit. I can go into this if you would like.