[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 89 (Tuesday, July 11, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1366]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING EDGEWOOD INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT'S EFFORTS TO INCREASE 
 STUDENT INTEREST IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CHARLES A. GONZALEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 11, 2006

  Mr. GONZALEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Edgewood ISD's 
efforts to increase student interest in science, technology, 
engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers.
  It has become apparent that in this increasingly globalized world, 
our Nation's foothold as a global economic leader is becoming less 
stable everyday. Furthermore, in today's economy, jobs in technical 
fields are growing at five times the rate of other occupations, and 
they pay better. For these reasons, it is imperative that our young 
people develop the math and science skills that are instrumental in 
allowing them to become world leaders in technology and innovation, 
thus enabling the United States to maintain its global economic edge.
  I am very proud of the efforts that Edgewood ISD is making to prepare 
its students with such skills. In 2001, Edgewood entered a team in the 
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) 
robotics competition as part of its Engineering Principles class. The 
Toltechs, also known as robotics team #499, have excelled in the FIRST 
competitions that require high school teams to design, assemble; and 
test a robot capable of performing a specified task. The students have 
shown great enthusiasm as they have gained proficiency in engineering 
and research. This excitement will no doubt encourage many of them to 
pursue careers in STEM fields.
  Edgewood ISD has recognized the importance of this type of learning 
by supporting the development and growth of the Toltechs over the 
years. The team has also received generous support from and strong 
partnership with a number of private industries in their community. The 
evolution of the Toltechs demonstrates how schools and private industry 
can work together effectively to make a significant positive impact 
upon the lives of students.
  More recently, Edgewood ISD has adopted another program to develop 
student's STEM skills. The Space TEAMS pilot in San Antonio targets 
middle school students from low income families, particularly girls, 
through a robotics competition called Botball. This exciting new 
program promises to also yield enthusiasm about STEM fields.
  I recognize and honor the important opportunities that Edgewood ISD 
has provided to its students through programs such as FIRST and Space 
TEAMS. The skills and knowledge that these experiences provide, not to 
mention the sense of confidence and pride that they create, will 
benefit participants long after they have finished their primary 
education. I wish them continued success in their competitions and hope 
to see these types of programs flourish in our Nation's schools as we 
acknowledge the importance of arming our kids with STEM skills.

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