Gov. Little declares March STEM Matters Month

BOISE –– Idaho Gov. Brad Little is declaring March STEM Matters Month, calling attention to the need for a STEM-literate workforce and spotlighting several science, technology, engineering, and math events taking place across the state over the next 31 days.

Several local schools in both Shoshone and Kootenai Counties identify as STEM schools, including North Idaho STEM Charter Academy, Fernan STEM Academy, Ramsey Magnet School of Science, and Canyon Elementary School. In addition, several other local school heavily incorporate STEM education into their day to day instruction.  

"The importance of STEM education in today's technology-and knowledge-based economy cannot be overstated," Gov. Little said. "From logging to computer science, mining to healthcare, or teaching to business, the skills that STEM education fosters will propel Idaho students into high-paying, meaningful careers."

Business leaders and working scientists concurred.

"Science, technology, engineering and math make the world go round, and we can't afford to miss out on connecting Idaho students with future opportunities in these fields," said Molly Dimick, MBA, an environmental engineer in Southeast Idaho and treasurer of the Idaho STEM Action Center Foundation board. "Investing in STEM education means inspiring young minds, creating networks, and developing tomorrow's workforce. In addition to being influenced by the students' enthusiasm, increasing their awareness of potential career fields is one of my favorite parts of volunteering in my community."

Rod Gramer, president and CEO of Idaho Business for Education, echoed Dimick's sentiment: "STEM education is so important to the future of Idaho and its economy. Many of the positions that employers need to fill require skills in science, technology, engineering, and math. We need to inspire Idaho's students to see how these careers benefit their fellow citizens and enhance the quality of life for all Idahoans. That's what compelling STEM education can do."

John Casselman, K-12 education outreach program manager at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, stressed the importance of early childhood STEM education.

"The earlier we can get young people excited about STEM the better," Casselman said. "The STEM mindset contributes to a clearer understanding of the world, a better ability to solve problems, the confidence to invent new solutions, and opportunities to create a better future."