[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 4]
[Senate]
[Page 5038]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                 TRIBUTE TO MATHEMATICS EDUCATION MONTH

 Mr. GRAMS. Madam President, Galileo understood the importance 
of mathematics when he said, ``Mathematics is the alphabet with which 
God has created the universe.'' I proudly rise today in recognition of 
Mathematics Education Month. Additionally, I take this opportunity to 
applaud the tireless efforts of our nation's math teachers.
  The importance of a strong mathematical education is indisputable. 
Our math skills prove invaluable on a daily basis. Without them we 
could not perform simple tasks such as buying groceries, following a 
recipe, or balancing our checkbooks, much less plan for our retirement 
or buy a home. Here in Congress, mathematical skills are essential to 
comprehending the incredibly complex issues of Social Security reform, 
taxes, and the federal budget process.
  My home state of Minnesota boasts some of the best math educators in 
the country, dedicated men and women who have inspired a lifetime of 
learning in countless students. This has been proven time and again by 
Minnesota's status as a national leader in ACT and SAT math scores. 
Nevertheless, we should continue to make improvements and not be 
satisfied with our success.
  One organization in my state deserves special accolades for its 
ongoing efforts to initiate those improvements. The Minnesota Council 
of Teachers of Mathematics is dedicated to the constant betterment of 
mathematical education at the elementary, secondary, and college 
levels. The Council's advocacy results in an ongoing effort to raise 
the bar for better education. I commend its members for their devotion 
to creating an awareness and interest in mathematics among young 
people.
  As classrooms across America labor over long division, tangents and 
derivatives this month, it is my hope that students, parents, and 
teachers alike will reflect on the significance of mathematics in our 
society and join me in celebrating Mathematics Education Month.

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