Prepare for future jobs

Students today are being prepared for a workforce of jobs that don't even exist. The future is technology and it changes rapidly every day. That new phone you have that was the latest model- it's already old. Technology phases out so quickly it becomes hard to keep up. Schools are doing what they can to prepare students for what's new by incorporating STEM into the curriculum. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) is project-based and collaborative. Students work together closely to solve real world problems. This type of learning is hands-on and requires resources different from what parents were used to when they attended school.

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, STEM jobs are growing at 17 percent while other jobs are growing at 9.8 percent. That's almost double the amount of jobs in a STEM field versus those in a non-STEM related field. Additionally, STEM workers tend to earn about 26 percent more than non-STEM workers. Students involved in STEM programs develop critical thinking and innovation. These traits are important to our country's and world's future as we look for innovative ideas to sustain growth and stability. Every student can benefit from a STEM education. Opportunities starting at a young age help bridge gender, ethnic and economical gaps. Starting STEM instruction early is fun, challenging, and best of all, hands-on. As students grow, so does what they can learn and do all while keeping the foundational skills front and center: critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving skills.

Gavin District 37 is in need of enhancing STEM opportunities for the students in the district. By voting yes on the March 20 ballot for the DSEB, you'll be giving our children an equal opportunity of success with neighboring districts. It truly takes a community to raise our children. Vote yes on March 20.

Marci Burr

Ingleside