Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Celebrates Innovation America Week; Continues Efforts to Promote Math and Science in Missouri
JEFFERSON CITY– Gov. Matt Blunt issued a proclamation in recognition of Innovation America Week which is designed to promote math and science in schools and workplaces. Innovation America Week is May 14 through 18.
"In Missouri we are making investments that focus on math and science programs that will prepare our students to be innovative and competitive in the global economy," Blunt said. "Innovation America will work to ensure that the United States is proactively working to increase our nation's capacity for innovation and proficiency in the fields of math and science."
Innovation America is the National Governors Association's (NGA) Chair Gov. Janet Napolitano's year long initiative to promote innovation throughout the country, work to create new math and science academies geared to improving student comprehension, and evaluate how innovation centers and math and science proficiencies affect each state's economy.
Blunt was selected to serve on the NGA Innovation America Task Force because of his commitment to increase Missouri students' proficiency in the areas of math and science. Blunt's Math, Engineering, Technology and Science (METS) initiative is designed to help Missourians understand the importance of METS to our children's future and the state's ability to compete in the global economy.
The governor secured funding in the fiscal year 2008 budget for 100 technology classrooms in 100 schools, afterschool programs geared toward math and science and incentives for more Missouri students to take Advanced Placement courses in math and science.