Congress Considers New Competition for Science and Math-Minded Students

Students who find themselves experimenting with smartphone apps, tinkering with software design or developing new ways to recycle will soon have the chance to test their innovation on a national scale.

On Thursday, House Administration Chairman Candice Miller, who represents Michigan's 10th congressional district, and Ranking Member Robert Brady (D-PA) announced a bipartisan committee initiative to establish an academic competition that promotes innovation among students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. 

The competition will be modeled after the Congressional Art Competition, which allows students to submit various artworks to their respective House representatives for consideration. Winners are recognized in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. and their works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.

"Today’s global economy is increasingly reliant on STEM research and innovation," Miller and Brady said in a joint statement. "Unfortunately, fewer than one-third of eighth graders in the U.S. are proficient in science and mathematics and only nine states allow computer science courses to count towards graduation requirements."

According to recently released 2012 MEAP results, Chippewa Valley and Clintondale schools saw the number of students deemed "proficient" in fifth and eighth grade science drop below the state average and actually decline from 2011 to 2012.

Chippewa Valley fared slightly better in math, seeing gains in almost every grade and remaining above state average. Clintondale, however, saw the number of students considered proficient in math drop in every grade but eighth. The district posted proficiencies below state average in every grade and subject area.

• See a breakdown of results by grade and subject

"If America wants to remain competitive in this field, we must encourage and embrace innovation, which is why we are proud to announce the bipartisan academic competition," the representatives' statement continued. "Encouraging greater innovation and participation in STEM fields will help our students and our nation succeed in the future.

“We want to thank House Leadership for their support with this important initiative and look forward to the opportunity to bring this bipartisan resolution before the House.”