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In February 2003, AIP signed onto this and similar letters to other key Members of Congress, supporting the higher funding level for the Education Department Math and Science Partnerships in the House-Senate conference on the FY 2003 omnibus appropriations bill. After funding of $101 million was appropriated for this program, AIP also signed onto a thank-you letter sent by the Coalition to the relevant Members.

K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Education Coalition: American Association of Engineering Societies American Astronomical Society American Association of Physics Teachers American Geological Institute American Helicopter Association, International American Institute of Physics American Society of Civil Engineers American Society of Mechanical Engineers Center for Chemistry Education, Miami University Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons Ecological Society of America Environmental Literacy Council Intel Corporation National Association of Biology Teachers National Council of Teachers of Mathematics National Energy Foundation National Science Teachers Association National Society of Professional Engineers Louisiana State University, College of Education Society of Fire Protection Engineers Tennessee Technology University, College of Engineering Triangle Coalition for Science and Technology Education     K-12 STEM Education Coalition letter on Math & Science Partnerships   January 31, 2003 The Honorable Arlen Specter 184 Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Dear Chairman Specter: We urge you to support the House request for $100 million for the Math & Science Partnership program at the Department of Education in the Labor/HHS/Education Appropriation. This necessary increase to Title II, Part B will allow every state to develop merit-based partnerships to improve teacher quality and student achievement in K-12 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. During the next decade, the U.S. demand for scientists and engineers is expected to increase at more than double the rate for all other occupations, according to the National Science Board*. The need for a scientifically literate population is essential for our economy and our national security. If the conference committee agrees to $100 million for this program, every state will receive an allotment of funding dedicated solely for math and science education programs. If the conference committee accepts an amount less than $100 million, the money will not go to the states for state-level math and science programs; instead, the funds will be administered by the U.S. Department of Education. Pennsylvania would get an estimated $3.9 million in funding for math and science education if the Math and Science Partnership is funded at $100 million. The Math & Science Partnership program will bring all stakeholders together to improve teacher quality and student achievement. We urge you to support to the House request of $100 million so that each state will be able to participate. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Patti Burgio at 202.785.7385. * National Science Board, Science & Engineering Indicators - 2002.