Texas FIRST teams doubling in 2 years

[JaneYoung]

Originally Posted by Rick TYler

STEM education/exposure is not a single problem with one solution, and I don't understand why Texas, for example, doesn't have a more sophisticated program for supporting the goal of STEM involvement for youth.

I don't think that is just in Texas, Rick. Have any other states come forward with this type of money in support of strengthening and supporting the goal of STEM involvement for youth? Do any other states have this many options available to them? I'm not being sarcastic, I'm asking sincerely.

From a Texas starting point, I can look on a map and see the surrounding states and some of their surrounding states and I know that many of these states are struggling to establish support and working goals in these areas. I know states that are in early developmental stages in expanding these programs in their educational systems and on into their colleges. We see growth each year with the scholarships being made available for college applicants. In my opinion, that awareness is slow but is steadily making an impact.

I know this is exciting news and I am looking forward to learning more about it. I'm not going to point fingers or use should and shouldn'ts when we can look at this situation across the nation and across the globe and see that there is a tremendous need for this type of support everywhere in order to build a better, stronger, and healthier future for all of us.

Dave - I understand the concerns voiced and share many them. It is important that the leaders that can make a difference and create these incredible opportunities understand these concerns and be made aware of the risks that are involved when these concerns are not addressed. You'll get no argument from me on that. There is a current thread here in CD regarding mentoring a team long distance. Yes, that is an option and can be very helpful, but the bottom line is that the team has to become self-sustaining and strengthen its ties to the community that it is a part of, using and sharing resources.