The U.S. House has passed a bill to improve science and technology education in rural schools, a bill led by Oklahoma Rep. Frank Lucas.
“To succeed in this job market, our students need to be equipped with solid skills in science and engineering,” Lucas said, noting that America’s economic growth depends on a STEM workforce with the skills to keep us at the cutting-edge of technological development.
STEM refers to science, technology, engineering, math and computer science.
Rep. Lucas said H.R. 4979, the Rural STEM Education Act addresses the unique challenges that make it difficult for students in rural areas to access high-quality STEM education. Rural schools are grappling with a shortage of science and math teachers, high teacher turnover, and difficulty accessing computer-based technology.
Lucas said that COVID-19 has made this legislation even more critical. “Since the start of the pandemic, we have seen further proof that rural students are at a disadvantage given the unreliable or non-existent broadband access many must deal with while distance learning.”
Lucas explained that STEM education for rural students is not an isolated problem: Nearly half of all schools are considered rural, and more than nine million students, or roughly 20% of all schoolchildren, attend rural schools. And of the 21 million Americans who lack access to broadband, the majority live in rural areas. These barriers set rural students back, making them less competitive in the evolving job market.
Click here or above to view Lucas’ Floor speech
Source: Rep. Lucas release