Community News

Solages hosts forum on STEM opportunities

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A small group of educators and residents of the 22nd Assembly District crowded a room at Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages’s district office on North Central Avenue on June 25 to discuss the benefits of pursuing a college degree in science, technology, engineering and math.

“Interest in STEM programs is growing throughout the state of New York,” Solages said. “If the United States is going to remain competitive in the global economy, a significant and rapid increase in educated and skilled workers in STEM fields is needed. We will continue to disseminate information and partner in state efforts to strengthen the science, technology, engineering and math workforce pipeline.”

A panel of guest speakers included Valley Stream District 13 Superintendent Constance Evelyn, who told the audience that her district is working to increase its focus on STEM to encourage students’ interest in the subjects. Evelyn also discussed federal programs available to schools that can help develop better STEM programs.

Maria Lopez, the executive director of technology strategy at the New York City Department of Education, emphasized the importance of using technology in classrooms, and showed a video of students engaging with advanced technology that helped with hands-on lessons like science labs.

Guest speaker Jan Figueira, the regional program director for the Girl Scouts of Nassau County, spoke about STEM-related after-school programs that the organization provides. “…STEM careers are very important and will help young people have incomes that will sustain them in today’s economy,” Figueira said.

Students can apply for a STEM scholarship offered by the state when they graduate high school. The program covers full tuition for any student that attends a SUNY or CUNY school, pursues a career in a STEM field and will work and live in New York for five years after their graduation from college.

Solages hosts a constituent open house at the district office in Valley Stream on the last Saturday of every month. Call (516) 599-2972 for more information or to find out more information about the next open house.