French chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur said this more than a century ago. It's still true. Because of their strong skills in math and science, researchers around the world can rise beyond national boundaries to solve problems shared by all people. Every day, news headlines report stories on genetic engineering breakthroughs, space probes, medicines unknown a decade ago, and many other scientific advances and issues. Some advances are so widely used that they are no longer newsworthy.
Millions use computers at home or work.
They drive cars that use computer chips. They get weather reports from satellite data. All our students, regardless of race, gender or ethnicity, must have access to high quality math and science education. This not only is crucial to help students understand and evaluate today's headlines. It also is excellent preparation for taking part, tomorrow, in the world's marketplace.