Parents Want Science Classes That Make The Grade (NAPSA)—Many experts believe that science education is vital to our country’s economic growth and ability to compete on an international level. At the same time, a numberof educators warn that the achievement scores for U.S. students indi- cate the science literacy of our young people does not meet levels needed to participate as fully productive citizens in the 21st century. Fortunately, according to a recent survey, U.S. parents are concerned about this trend. The survey, conducted by the Department of Education, shows that 85 percent of parents questioned understand the value of science education and want their children to take more science courses. At the sametime, 94 percent of parents report that they feel that a science education is important for their child’s success when they enter the world of work and 60 percent of survey participants say that a science education is very important to their child’s future. Another key finding of the poll is that 51 percent of the parents interviewed feel that they have more science education than their children. Researchers found this result interesting, given the rapid pace of scientific and technological change in an era that has seen advances such as the Internet and the biotech revolution. However, one in four parents feels uncomfortable when helping their children with their science homework, whether their child is a boy ora girl. According to the survey, minor- ity parents are more likely to encourage their children to take science courses and are more likely to be more comfortable helping with science homework than According to a survey, 85 percent of parents say they encourage their children to take science courses. their white counterparts. Some experts are concerned that many schools do not share parents’ enthusiasm for science education. The U.S. Department of Education, for instance, has recognized the need to increase the quality and amountof science education available to middle and high school students. In addition to many initiatives generated by the No Child Left Behind Act, the Department held a summit in Washington, D.C. where representatives from gov- ernment agencies, science and education groups and businesses gathered to promote the need for improved science education. Government officials also honored teachers from across the country for their dedication and excellence in the field of science education. To learn more, visit www.ed. gov/rschstat/research/progs/math science/index.html.
