(NAPSA)—Several studies have found that U.S. students continue to lag behind those in other developed countries in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. In the last comparison conducted by the Programmefor International Student Assessment (PISA), Ameri- can students ranked 21st out of 30 in science literacy among students from developed countries, and 25th out of 30 in math literacy. Recognizing the importance of STEM education and responding to President Obama’s call to improve science literacy among American students, a foundation committed to science education has announced a new nationwideinitiative. The initiative is designed to improve student academic achievement in STEM education in the United States by engaging educators from across the country in hands-on and multimedia professional development opportunities. Building on its 12-year track record of supporting science education programs, the Siemens Foundation, in partnership with Discovery Education, Oak Ridge Associated Universities and the College Board, has created the Siemens STEM Academy. This program will provide several different tools offering teachers additional professional development. An evaluation by the Community Training and Assistance Center of work done in Duval County, Fla., demonstrated that purposeful teacher training can lead to quantifiable gains in student learning. The Siemens STEM Academy will provide teachers this type of training through the following resources: e Siemens STEM Institute A week-long STEM immersion program that will enable 50 select teachers to gather and engage with today’s critical science thinkers and other peers from across the nation and visit leading institutions in Washington, D.C. to see LIE lle; Improving student academic achievement in science, technology, engineering and mathis the goalof a newinitiative. real-world applications of STEM subject matter. e STEM Academy Online Portal A national portal and online community at www.siemensstem academy.com, designed to foster STEM achievement by providing educators with a dedicated resource to collaborate, exchange and connect about all things related to STEM education. Brains of Science Connect Webinar Series A monthly webinar series that gives educators from across the country the chance to interact with today’s eminent scientists, personalities and thought leaders and extend that experience to their students through customized standards-based content. A Commitment to Excellence “This academy reinforces the Siemens Foundation’s commitment to excellence in STEM education. Each successful student can rememberbeing influenced by a great teacher,” said James Whaley, president of the Siemens Foundation. “Through the Siemens STEM Academy, we seek to empower educators with effective, engaging, professional development. We strive to improve student achievement in these disciplines that are so important to our nation’s future.” For more information, visit www.siemensstemacademy.com.
