do the math

September 4, 2008

A proven formula for improving U.S. math and science proficiency.

Imagine if we could dramatically increase the number of American high-school students taking — and passing — Advanced Placement exams in math and science.

Imagine the improved odds of success for these young people. Students who pass AP exams are three times more likely to earn a college degree than those who do not.

Imagine the benefit to our nation, where declining math and science proficiency poses an increasing threat to America’s future as an innovator and economic leader.

No need to imagine any longer. It’s already happening in 143 high schools in seven states.

These schools are implementing the Advanced Placement Training and Incentive Program supported by the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI).

This innovative program offers training for AP teachers, tutoring for students, and mini-scholarships, and provides greater opportunities for minorities and economically disadvantaged students.

The results are startling: For participating schools in their first year of the program, AP enrollment in math, science, and English rose by nearly 60 percent this year alone. As a result, in 2009 the number of students taking these AP exams in these 143 schools is projected to be over 30,000.

NMSI’s other flagship program, UTeach, which encourages math and science majors to pursue careers in teaching, had similar success. At the University of Texas and the 13 universities awarded grants to begin UTeach programs, over 1,000 students enrolled.

Think of it: In just one year, a thousand more bright minds committed to teaching math and science, and thousands better prepared to compete in today’s technology-driven economy.

We can multiply that success — across schools, and across the nation. Many more states and universities stand ready to adopt NMSI’s programs once funding is available.

In support of NMSI, ExxonMobil has committed the largest single financial gift ever for improving math and science education. Other funding partners include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. We invite other private donors to join this important, urgent cause.

We also urge government to back this education movement. Congress recognized the urgency of improving math and science education by passing the America COMPETES Act earlier this year, but has not funded the programs.

Now, as lawmakers weigh how best to fund our nation’s educational goals, NMSI’s programs are available as proven, powerful tools that can be replicated across all 50 states. 

Because when you do the math, one of the best ways to strengthen America's technological leadership is to invest in the students who will become tomorrow's innovators.

To learn more, visit www.nationalmathandscience.org.