WHEREAS, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education, or STEM, is vital to the public schools in Washington State, to raising academic achievement in math and science, and to increasing career and college readiness among students of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnic, or socioeconomic status; and
     WHEREAS, Profound economic and technological changes in our society have rapidly changed the structure and nature of work, placing new and additional responsibilities on our educational system; and
     WHEREAS, STEM education provides students with a connection between school and careers and creates seamless secondary and postsecondary education pathways for middle school and high school students, fostering productivity in business and industry and contributing to America's leadership in the international marketplace; and
     WHEREAS, STEM education gives Washington State students the experience to discover firsthand how their participation in certain coursework can lead directly to exciting and rewarding careers, giving all students access to hands-on learning; and
     WHEREAS, STEM education students who choose to pursue STEM career fields will have the skills and knowledge to enter STEM career fields and the ability to move to the next level of education or employment, making our students globally competitive.
     WHEREAS, The cooperative efforts of career and technical educators, business, and industry stimulate the growth and vitality of our local and national economy by preparing graduates for career fields expected to experience the largest and fastest growth in the next decade;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize and honor STEM education on this day, February 4, 2010; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the Washington Association for Career and Technical Education.