National Lab Day will bring scientists like you together with K-12 teachers and students across the Country for a day of hands-on learning. But it is much more than a day-long event. It is a commitment to ongoing partnerships between our Nation’s scientists and schools. This effort, championed by President Obama, is important to the scientific community and to our Country.
Not only is the future of biomedical research in danger, but the future health of our economy depends on a workforce with quantitative skills in math and science. Today, 15 year-olds in the U.S. rank a disappointing 29th out of 57 countries in science achievement. I don’t expect all students to become scientists. But as our children grow into adults, they need to have the problem-solving skills to be able to make good decisions for themselves and their families–and this all begins in school!
The scientific community has the opportunity to step up and be part of the solution. I plan to spend National Lab Day in a D.C. high school sharing my passion for science. I challenge each of you to volunteer, as well.
Not sure what to do next? At our NIH Science Education Nation Web site, you can learn more about today’s schools, teachers, and students and how to establish effective partnerships. When you are ready to join me in volunteering, sign up at www.nationallabday.org
— Francis Collins, M.D., Ph.D.
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