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Past Initiatives

Mathematics and Science Education (2005)

The increasing demand for U.S. workers with higher levels of mathematics and science skills, the decrease in the number of science and engineering degrees awarded to U.S. citizens, the disappointing performance trends of U.S. students on comparative international mathematics and science assessments, and the critical shortage of qualified mathematics and science teachers are of ongoing concern to BHEF.

BHEF members believe that mathematics and science, together with the technological innovation they support, are critical to America's competitive position in the global economy and to its security in our uncertain world. BHEF launched the Mathematics and Science Education Initiative to articulate a systemic, nationwide effort for substantial and sustained improvement of mathematics and science education from pre-kindergarten through grade 12.

Co-chaired by Warren J. Baker, President of California Polytechnic State University, L. Dennis Smith, President Emeritus of University of Nebraska, and William H. Swanson, Chairman and CEO of Raytheon Company, the two-year initiative resulted in a final report entitled, A Commitment to America's Future: Responding to the Crisis in Mathematics and Science Education.

The report recommends cohesive long-term tactics to alleviate pressing systemic problems, such as the shortage of highly qualified mathematics and science teachers. In particular, the report challenges business, education, and policy leaders to commit to new and collaborative roles that will advance the development of seamless state systems of education – systems that extend from pre-kindergarten to higher education and the workplace.

A Commitment to America's Future is comprised of the following three components:

• The Brochure (pdf) — gives an overview of the crisis in mathematics and science education in the United States and outlines proposed solutions.

• The Main Report (pdf) — presents a four-part plan for systematic reform in P-12 mathematics and science education (see Press Release).

• The Handbook: A Toolkit for Leaders of State-level P-16 Councils (pdf) — provides P-16 council leaders with a toolkit of background information and proposed procedures for structuring and guiding implementation of BHEF's proposed action plan.