Senator Murray Applauds Passage of Bill to Strengthen Science and Math Programs in Washington State Schools

(Washington,
D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) applauded the passage of a bill
that will strengthen and expand science and mathematics programs in schools in
Washington state and across the country. The America COMPETES Reauthorization
Act of 2010 includes provisions to expand science and mathematics programs at
all points in our education system. Additionally, the Act directs business and
the federal government to coordinate with science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics (STEM) education programs to help create innovative educational
opportunities, increase research investment, and improve economic
competitiveness.

“Thanks
to ground-breaking educational programs, Washington state is home to some of
the world’s most innovative workers, businesses, and schools. However, we must
continue developing new programs and applying more resources if we want our
workers to be competitive in the global economy,” said Senator Murray. “This
bill will help America’s workers continue to compete, and will direct the
government to use available tools to strengthen educational opportunities and
increase investments in research projects that will benefit future
generations.”

The
America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 will:

• Increase
  research investment;
• Strengthen
  educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
  from elementary through graduate school; and
• Develop
  an infrastructure that will enhance innovation and competitiveness in the
  United States.