WPLLC > Policy Expertise > Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education

As evidence that history repeats itself, many law- and policy-makers are stating that our nation is at another "Sputnik Moment" - referencing the Soviet Union's 1957 manned launch into outer space - only that this moment is not about a space race, but an education race, particularly science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. There are serious concerns that U.S. K-12 students are falling behind their international peers, as evidenced by scores on standardized tests. This inability to match the quality of education of other competitive nations has raised the possibility that America's traditional economic dominance is vulnerable.

While almost everyone acknowledges there is a problem, there is no similar consensus around a solution. From improving the content knowledge of classroom teachers, to federal appropriations for innovative programs, to visa issues, seemingly all areas of the education world are relevant. This means that there is a plethora of information and proposals on STEM education and the library is growing every day. Washington Partners, LLC has the expertise in STEM education to help clients clearly understand the implications of the issues and then communicate the importance to the client's members.

The lack of a single solution creates an opportunity for others to be part of the solution. With members of Congress hearing clear alarms on the problems with STEM education from their constituents, WPLLC has the ability to position an organization and its constituents to become leading voices in their areas of interest. Further, WPLLC understands the intersection of science, technology, engineering and mathematics education and the importance of rigorous and relevant K-12 curricula to generate and maintain interest in these disciplines among young students. Engineers, scientists and mathematicians need to start becoming these professionals long before they reach postsecondary study. WPLLC brings exemplary programs to the attention of stakeholders and decision-makers and engages STEM education organizations and advocates in the education policy-making process. In this manner, WPLLC's clients become an expert resource as members of Congress search for solutions, thereby becoming a participants in the decision-making process.

Specific areas of WPLLC's STEM expertise policy expertise include:

• Legislative developments
• Curriculum improvement
• Teacher recruitment, training and retention
• Minority outreach
• Coalition building
• Distance learning
• Professional development