How Texas is Preparing for the Future of STEM Education
Photo by: Emily W.
By: Emily W.
Texas is well-known for its thriving economy, and it’s no secret that the state is looking to stay ahead of the curve by investing in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. Preparing for a future in STEM education is a top priority in Texas, and the state has been implementing several measures to achieve this goal.
North Texas
Texas Instruments
According to Educate Texas, The TI Foundation has invested over $10 million in Lancaster ISD. Including a new, three-year, $1.015 million grant for teacher and principal training in STEM reading and writing and social and emotional support due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, dual language teaching and instructional training for faculty and parents. The TI Foundation has also awarded $3.02 million in initial grants to Educate Texas to develop STEM districts in Cedar Hill and DeSoto ISD, located in North Texas.
Since 2010, the Texas Instruments Foundation has invested over $50 million specifically in STEM education to improve math and science learning outcomes. As well as opportunities for students of color in North Texas who historically face economic and educational barriers.
Central Texas
STEM-For-All Partnership
Texas Representative John Carter and Texas State University President Kelly Damphousse announced $1 million in funding for the Round Rock Campus’ STEM-for-All Partnership and Research Initiative.
“The learners of today are the leaders of tomorrow,” said Representative Carter.
Investing in Central Texas’ students and educators is crucial for the region’s future prosperity. This initiative is providing young learners with exciting opportunities to explore the wonders of STEM. As well as equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate a rapidly evolving, technology-driven workforce and lay the foundation for a brighter tomorrow.
South Texas
(Boeing photo)
Boeing and the Kelly Heritage Foundation have recently joined forces to create a game-changing partnership. [NYSE: BA] Together, they are committed to advancing STEM education and workforce development in South Texas through a new educational nonprofit affiliated with Port San Antonio. The partnership is set to span over seven years and boasts a whopping $2.3 million investment.
With this generous funding, the region’s STEM talent will be strengthened, and programming supported by the foundation will be enhanced. In fact, local organizations like the San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology, which is located at the Port’s tech campus, will benefit from this collaboration.
“We know a vibrant STEM curriculum will deepen the bench of local talent we hope to hire in the future.” – Boeing
In conclusion, the efforts of North, Central, and South Texas funding and promoting STEM education will have an immense impact on the future of the state and the nation. By investing in STEM education, these regions are ensuring that they have a well-educated workforce that is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the 21st-century job market. The benefits of STEM education are countless, and it is essential that we continue to invest in and promote it for the betterment of our society.
Edited by: Ana Sofia Pitta
