How We Can Encourage Students to Become Teachers (Rep. Tom Allen)

Investments in math, science and research are critical to good jobs and future economic growth.   H.R. 362 and 363 expand upon successful programs that encourage students to pursue careers as math and science teachers and provide incentives for a new generation of pioneers who will blaze the trail for scientific advancement in the decades ahead.  I enthusiastically supported these initiatives as they complement my efforts to further an innovation agenda that will promote opportunity and prosperity for our children and grandchildren.

Maine and many other states face a critical shortage of the qualified math and science teachers needed to ensure that our young people get the solid foundation they need in these key disciplines.  H.R. 362 is similar to financial aid legislation I first introduced several years ago to encourage science and math majors to become teachers.  The grants and awards created by H.R. 363 will reward the inventiveness and creativity that are key to future high-tech innovation.