On the recordFebruary 24, 2015
I want to begin by thanking my friend, Chairman Smith, for his leadership on the Science Committee, particularly on STEM education. For the second Congress in a row, we are considering the STEM Education Act on the House floor. I am grateful that we are advancing these important efforts in a bipartisan fashion, thanks in large part to the chairman's willingness to work across the aisle. I would also like to thank and recognize the work of Representative Lipinski for his diligent work on this and many other bills and my good friend Eddie Bernice Johnson for her thoughtful leadership on STEM education and on all issues facing the Science Committee. The STEM Education Act of 2015 supports teachers who are preparing students to be the engineers, manufacturers, and scientists of tomorrow. We all know that students, particularly elementary school students, learn best when they are engaged and interested. However, any parent knows that it can be difficult to spark a student's passion for STEM subjects without innovative and creative learning environments. With more and more jobs of the 21st century requiring STEM skills, we need to better prepare our children for these good-paying jobs. As a mother of three, I remember when my children had incredible teachers who made science and math accessible and fun. We should do all we can to support innovative, passionate teachers for every child in every school.…





