House passes legislation to increase math and science teachers

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The House approved legislation Tuesday intended to boost the number of highly qualified math and science teachers in U.S. schools.
The bill, which passed 389-22, would authorize more than $600 million through 2012 for scholarships and stipends for college students studying math and science in preparation for teaching careers. They could receive annual scholarships of $10,000 if they commit to teaching elementary or secondary pupils upon graduation.
The bill also would provide enhanced training for current math and science teachers. They could attend summer programs at universities or receive financial aid to pursue master's degrees. It would establish a national panel to identify math and science teaching materials that have proven effective.
Rep. Bart Gordon, D-Tennessee, who chairs the House Committee on Science and Technology, said the bill's provisions were drawn from a 2005 report by the National Academy of Sciences about foreign competition facing the U.S. labor force.
"That report told us that now is the time to take bold steps to ensure that our children are prepared for the jobs of the future and that our nation can continue to compete in the global economy," Gordon said.
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-California, called the House bill a win-win. "The kids are going to benefit," he said. "The schools are going to benefit. The country is going to benefit."
Recent results from a federal test -- the National Assessment of Educational Progress -- found 29 percent of students in grades four and eight scoring at the proficient level or better in science. Only 18 percent of 12th-graders were proficient or better in science.
Recently released 12th-grade math scores showed about one-fourth of seniors to be proficient or better in math.
The House also voted 397-20 Tuesday to approve a bill that would provide grants worth $80,000 a year to scientists and engineering researchers in the early stages of their careers.
The Senate is debating a measure this week that would increase training for math and science teachers and prepare them to teach Advanced Placement courses. The bill would boost funding for scientific research at several federal agencies.
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