Ruppersberger to Announce Interactive STEM Initiative in Maryland Public Schools Just in Time for Back to School

Goal is to Get Students Interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
Now to Prepare Them for Good Paying Jobs Later 
 
(Essex, MD) – Just in time for back-to-school, Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) will join a former NASA astronaut, students and teachers at Oliver Beach Elementary School on Wednesday in Essex to announce a new, interactive science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) initiative in Maryland public schools.  The goal of the $1 million dollar program is to get students interested in STEM education now to prepare them for good paying jobs later. 

The Baltimore Excellence in Science Teaching (BEST) Partnership provides area teachers with top-notch training and funds to conduct interactive science and math fairs and classes for public school students.  Towson University, Coppin State University and the Maryland BioLab are teaming up with former NASA Astronaut Don Thomas and different school systems across the state to get elementary and middle school kids involved in science and math. 

“Studies show we have to get to kids early, in elementary and middle school, so they can develop an interest and aptitude for the dynamic STEM fields.  We can open students up to a world of learning now that will benefit them later with a career in a booming industry and a good-paying job.  Chances are that job can be right here in Maryland with the expansion of high-tech companies, even in this tough economy,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD), a Member of the House Appropriations Committee.   

The short press conference will be followed by a hands-on science presentation by Mr. Don Thomas and some Oliver Beach Elementary School students.   

Who:      Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD)
              Dr. Robert Caret, President Towson University 
              Mr. Don Thomas, Former NASA Astronaut and Director of the Willard Hackerman 
                  Academy for STEM Education and Outreach 
              Students 
              Teachers

What:     Ruppersberger to Announce Exciting, New STEM Initiative 

When:    10:30 a.m., Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Where:   Oliver Beach Elementary 
               12912 Cuninghill Cove Road  
               Essex, MD 21220