Senate Committee Approves Robbins' Bill Promoting Science Education in Schools
Aim is to Better Prepare Today's Students for Tomorrow's World

Harrisburg – A bill sponsored by state Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) that would place into law a nationally-acclaimed science education program was approved by the Senate Education Committee last week.

Senate Bill 414 would establish the Pennsylvania Basic Education/Higher Education Science and Technology Partnership Program as a permanent line-item in the state budget. 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 DNA testing equipment. This equipment is then made available to schools via what has now become their trademark "Science in Motion" van.

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.

"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 will now be considered by the Senate Appropriations Committee prior to facing a final vote before the full Senate.

CONTACT: Nate Silcox (717) 787-1322

Senate Committee Approves Robbins' Bill Promoting Science Education in Schools Aim is to Better Prepare Today's Students for Tomorrow's World

Senate Committee Approves Robbins' Bill Promoting Science Education in Schools
Aim is to Better Prepare Today's Students for Tomorrow's World