Hoyer Presents St. Mary's County Schools with $487,000 for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Programs
LEXINGTON PARK, MD - Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) presented the St. Mary's County Public Schools (SMCPS) with $487,000 in federal funding for the County's specialized programming emphasizing the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Rep. Hoyer made the presentation during a visit to the Spring Ridge Middle School STEM Academy in Lexington Park.
"What a shining example of STEM student success we have here in St. Mary's County - I am proud to represent a county and a constituency that has taken enormous leadership in preparing young people to excel in science, technology, engineering, and math," stated Rep. Hoyer. "I am sure that we can expect great things as a result of the STEM Academy programming, and I am pleased that the federal government has partnered with you in your quest to educate and prepare tomorrow's leaders."
St. Mary's County Public School System has developed a rigorous and unique program of study emphasizing the core areas of mathematics and science with an infusion of technology and engineering. Through this specialized education programming, students with advanced skills and interests in STEM areas of study receive instruction in state-of-the-art classrooms, research laboratories, and e-learning labs. The funding, which Rep. Hoyer secured through the FY2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill, will be used to support programs at three schools: Lexington Park Elementary, Spring Ridge Middle, and Great Mills High School.
"We are committed to STEM education today and in the long run for our students and community," said Dr. Michael J. Martirano, superintendent of schools. "We thank Congressman Hoyer for his continued support as we make sure this important endeavor is successfully implemented."
During the presentation, Rep. Hoyer also referenced the work of the 110th Congress to advance an Innovation Agenda that encourages innovation and discovery to maintain America's leadership in the global marketplace. The centerpiece of the Innovation Agenda - the America Competes Act -was passed and signed into law last year, authorizing $43.3 billion over the next three years for STEM research and education programs, increasing the number of qualified teachers and including provisions to help broaden participation in science and engineering fields at all levels.
"St. Mary's County's STEM programming is critical for enhanced student learning and success, but is vital as a part of a national effort to train the innovation leaders of tomorrow and ensure that America maintains its competitive edge in global marketplace," stated Rep. Hoyer.
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