Here at LEADPrep we are often asked why STEM is a mandatory part of the curriculum. Why is it given equal weight with English and the other basic classes.
We believe it is vital that our students understand not only how to use science (S), technology (T), engineering (E), and math (M); but also how they are used to create and lead.
Teaching STEM to younger students
The Myth
First of all, the myth of “who” a STEM student is needs to be busted. STEM is not just for computer programming whiz kids.
STEM classes are for ALL of our students who want to create a better world…cure cancer, make sure all people have drinkable water, design sustainable living models….
The myth also includes gender bias…the commonly held belief is that those in STEM are male.
Unfortunately, this myth has become a self-fulfilling prophecy, and has translated into only 6.7% of females pursuing STEM degrees at university.
Here at Home
We here in Washington State have the distinction of being second in the nation at producing STEM-related jobs. STEM WA reminds us however that over 25,000 of those STEM jobs are not filled, due to lack of qualified candidates, and this number will be increasing.
Wouldn’t it be ideal for Washington residents to fill them? And wouldn’t it be amazing if at least 50% of those jobs to be filled by females?
