Monthly TV Show, Webcast to Spotlight Value of Science Education in Global Economy

May 17, 2005

A number of cable outlets across the nation will carry the program, “Education News Parents Can Use,” from 8-9 p.m. EDT Tuesday, including the D.C. Public Schools TV Channel 28 in Washington. A complete listing of viewer options is posted at http://www.ed.gov/news/av/video/edtv/ways-watch.html
. In addition, the program will be webcast at http://www.connectlive.com/events/ednews

“A strong foundation in the sciences is absolutely crucial to getting ahead in the 21st century,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings. “Our program will show why science instruction is so important and give parents tips on fostering their children’s interest in the sciences, at home and in the community.”

Among the topics that will be covered include:

  • Why is a comprehensive education in the sciences so important in the 21st century?
  • How does No Child Left Behind address science instruction and teacher qualifications?
  • How can we increase the number of high school graduates who pursue careers in science- and math-related fields?
  • How can parents use daily activities in the home and community to reinforce science lessons?
John Marburger, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Assistant U.S. Secretary of Education Susan Sclafani will discuss science education policies.

In addition, a special panel of educators will talk about effective science techniques in the classroom. Among the guests: Greg Hall, assistant superintendent for assessment and research with the Washington State Department of Education; Stephen Sills, a principal in Lake Worth, Fla.; and Melvina Jones, an elementary teacher in Washington, D.C.

Others will stress ways to inspire an ongoing interest in science at home and in the community. They include: former astronaut Mae Jemison, now with the Bayer Foundation and Making Science Make Sense; Ioannis Miaoulis, president and director of Boston’s Museum of Science; and Monica Shah, manager for science and technology with the Girl Scouts of the USA.

Details about the “Education News Parents Can Use” TV series can be found at http://www.ed.gov/news/av/video/edtv/index.html.