GOVERNOR HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF SCIENCE AND MATH IN MAINE SCHOOLS
DATELINE: AUGUSTA
The following information was released by the office of the governor of Maine:
Governor John E. Baldacci today participated in the Maine STEM Summit. The event at the Augusta Civic Center is part of an effort in Maine to increase student aspirations in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and to build collaborations between educators, business people and legislators.
Governor Baldacci noted that STEM disciplines are critical to the 21st Century economy. Maine' economy is transforming from one based largely on living off the land and on manufacturing, to one that is using technology to provide services to people worldwide, and to add value to our natural resources, said Governor Baldacci. What we all know is that a college education is becoming more important in this information and technology-based economy. We need to join forces now and work together to ensure the health of Maine businesses and the ability of Maine people to access good paying jobs.
The Baldacci Administration has been building capacity and research and development in a variety of economic clusters that hold promise to create opportunities for Maine' economy and new jobs.
We are embracing technology, and that' why my Administration a" through ConnectMe, RandD, Pine Tree Zones and cluster development a" has been working to attract companies and the good paying jobs that come with this new economy, said Governor Baldacci. Crucial to our success in Maine is to ensure our young people have the tools they need to be prepared for these technology-based jobs now and into the future.
The Governor praised those attending the day-long event. Representatives from some of Maine' cutting-edge employers, including The Jackson Laboratory, Correct Building Products and National Semiconductor, conducted sessions with Maine educators to discuss growing opportunities in areas such as biotechnology, composites and precision manufacturing.
Maine is uniquely placed to grow business and jobs in these clusters, said the Governor. These are sectors that are promising for Maine' future and which require a workforce trained in math, science and technology. Now is the time to take advantage of the expertise we have in the State. We must maximize the power of resources during challenging fiscal times and to foster partnerships among K-12 schools, higher education, the business community, parents, and other organizations, that can create the educational opportunities our children need to succeed in the 21st century.
Today' event was hosted by the Mathematics and Science Alliance. Participants included educators, business and economic development leaders, legislators and state government officials.
More information on the STEM initiative is available at www.mainestem.org.