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Science, Math and the future of West Virginia

Did you know many parents say they are better equipped to talk with their teenagers about drug abuse than math and science? This is according to a recent Intel Corp. survey. Despite a perceived importance of math and science for future success, the survey reveals that parents find themselves with little understanding and without the necessary resources to answer questions and talk to their children about these subjects.

This should concern us all — educators, parents, legislators, employers, community leaders and mentors — because a strong background in math and science is increasingly critical in today's global economy. Yet, U.S. teenagers, on average, are no longer the leaders in these subjects on international exams. 

We often hear reports that the U.S. is losing the science and technological race to Finland, Singapore, China, India and others. More can and must be done because today's jobs require our students have a solid grasp of math and science skills, whether or not they want to go to college. 

This year is the International Year of Chemistry, a worldwide celebration of the achievements of chemistry and its contributions to the well-being of humankind. Yet many adults in our state likely don't know how critical a role West Virginia has played in the development and continuation of the field.

Over the next several weeks, you will have the opportunity to read articles from some of the most prestigious chemists and chemistry specialists in West Virginia, and, sometimes, the world. These articles will showcase products or processes that were invented, developed or commercialized in our state — and how humankind has benefited from achievements originating in West Virginia.

We need to inspire children to take a greater interest in science, technology, engineering and math, which is commonly known as STEM, to continue this tradition. In addition, we need to encourage young people to become science and math teachers to inspire the scientists of tomorrow. And perhaps with a local-interest approach to the usefulness of these skills, we can motivate our future work force to help West Virginia remain at the forefront of the exciting and prosperous industries available in our state. 

STEM education equips students with skills that will serve them well no matter their vocation of choice. Knowledge and understanding of science, technology, engineering and math will help them in daily life, whether weighing the benefits versus side effects of new medicines or pondering the convenience versus environmental impact of their transportation choices.

Students who study STEM are and will be in high demand, and can look forward to stable, well-paying careers in the 21st century. Companies are struggling to fill many such positions, even in tough economic times. If we are to continue to attract these types of companies to West Virginia, we must prepare our young people with the skills to create a work force that will help our state prosper. 

Our schools have made great strides but we need to do more to meet that demand and create graduates who are ready for both college and a career. The West Virginia Department of Education has answered this demand in many ways, including rigorous math and science standards, teacher preparation, online assessments and resources on Teach21, a new West Virginia Youth Science Camp, pre-engineering curriculum trials, career technical education courses, a STEM Coalition and much more.

Many people in my generation were inspired to study math and science by the Cold War and 1957 Soviet Sputnik launch. The movie "October Sky," based on the novel "Rocket Boys" by Homer Hickam, illustrates how this passion flourished here in West Virginia. Just as the Rocket Boys were inspired to learn science and math, we need to inspire today's young people because they are the key to solving global challenges. A solid math and science foundation, coupled with critical thinking, collaboration and digital literacy skills, are crucial for their success.

 It's time for parents, teachers and others to have the STEM talk with our children so that we set them on course for bright, inspired futures. Use this article series to initiate the conversation and help us celebrate the International Year of Chemistry.

Jorea Marple is the Superintendent of Schools for West Virginia.