LULAC Sheds Light on STEM Education
Since 1929, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has worked to expand educational opportunities for Latinos. As we celebrate the 85th anniversary of our organization’s founding, LULAC remains committed to continuing that work. This year, LULAC is grateful for support from the Time Warner Cable Research Program on Digital Communications for our report entitled, “STEM Education: A Bridge for Latinos to Opportunity and Success.”
With a grassroots perspective and a focus on engagement and advocacy, LULAC hopes that the information in the report will help empower Latino advocates, parents, students, and others with the information to expand the pipeline of Latinos into the STEM fields. In addition, we hope the report will help raise critical awareness of the potential of STEM education as a bridge that connects Latinos to future economic opportunities and success.
A briefing session will be held on Friday, July 11, 2014 at the 85th LULAC National Convention and Exposition.
Abstract
Leaders in education and industry have long emphasized the need for high school graduates to have improved knowledge and skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).Given the immense impact of STEM fields on both the domestic job market and the global economy in the 21st century, STEM preparation will be critical to successful academic careers and further professional development, allowing well prepared students the skills needed to pursue careers in cutting-edge fields. For these reasons, a high quality STEM education can be a powerful means to bridge the economic divide between Latinos and other demographic groups in America.
The report examines career opportunities that exist in the STEM fields, as well as the current educational landscape for Latinos and women in STEM, and highlights LULAC’s work in positively contributing to STEM. The paper also highlights recommendations for improving access for the Latino community to STEM preparation and resources, with a particular emphasis on community engagement.