The goal of the Mathematics and Science Partnerships program is to improve the quality of mathematics and science teachers and increase both the number of highly qualified math and science teachers and the achievement of students participating in mathematics and science partnership programs.

Following is the text of a letter sent to Ralph Regula, who serves as chairman of the labor, health & human services, and education subcommittee.

July 14, 2004

The Honorable Ralph Regula
Chairman, Labor, Health & Human Services, and Education Subcommittee
Committee on Appropriations
2358 Rayburn House Office Building
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Mr. Chairman:

We want to thank you for your tremendous support of the U.S. Department of Education’s Math & Science Partnership program in the FY 2005 budget.

Improving the math and science skills of our students is essential to maintaining our technological leadership in the global economy and our national security during these difficult times.

The Math & Science Partnership program brings all stakeholders together to improve teacher quality and student achievement in K-12 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

With this new level of funding, each state will have greater resources to fund merit-based university and local school district partnerships that meet local needs for teacher quality and student performance.

We appreciate your leadership and support for this program. Further, we look forward to helping you, and your staff, secure this increased funding throughout the appropriations process. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Patti Curtis at 202.785.7385.

K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering &
Mathematics Education Coalition