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For Immediate
Release
6/16/06
CONTACT:
Senate Republican Communications
(717) 787-6725
Senate Passes Robbins' "Science in Motion" Legislation
Program
Provides Hands-on Science Instruction to Students
HARRISBURG -- Legislation
sponsored by state Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) that would place into law a
nationally-acclaimed science education program was unanimously passed by the
Senate yesterday. Senate Bill 414 would enact into law the Science Technology
Partnerships Program. Better known as "Science in Motion," the program makes
state funding available to higher education institutions to purchase high tech
science equipment, such as atomic force microscopes and spectrophometers. This
equipment is then transported to and shared with surrounding schools.
This past
year, 280 public, private, and parochial schools were served throughout the
state by 11 higher education institutions, including Westminster College.
Westminster College serves the Farrell, Grove City, Hermitage, Highlands,
Jamestown, Lakeview, Laurel, Mercer, Mohawk, Neshannock, New Castle, Penn Crest,
Seneca Valley, Sharon, Sharpsville, Slippery Rock, and Wilmington school
districts.
"Recently, a
cover of Time Magazine asked, 'Is America Flunking Science' (Feb. 13, 2006),"
said Senator Robbins. "As a former teacher, I know a 'hands-on' education
cannot be emphasized enough. The truth is books alone will not stimulate the
minds of students when it comes to mastering science. Students need science to
come to life. That is precisely what Science in Motion is all about."
"This program
is a win-win situation for everyone involved," said Sen. Robbins. "Institutions
of higher education become partners with neighboring schools. Teachers receive
professional development training from college professors. High school students
get access to the latest in high tech equipment. And Pennsylvania wins as these
students are turned on to the world of science."
Science in
Motion has been featured on ABC News with Peter Jennings, as well as having won
the 2003 Innovations Award from the national Council of State Governments. Most
importantly, it has also spurred other states to duplicate the program; however,
Pennsylvania has yet to fully commit to it.
"Ultimately,
this program is all about better preparing today's students for tomorrow's
world," said Robbins. "If we can strengthen successful programs such as Science
in Motion, our knowledge base in Pennsylvania will help attract more high tech
jobs to the area – which, in turn, will make Pennsylvania a more attractive
place to work and live."
Senate Bill
414 now goes to the House for consideration.
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