Scutari Introduces Legislation to Establish ‘New Jersey STEM Grant Pilot Program’

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Nicholas P. Scutari, which would establish a four-year “New Jersey STEM Scholars Grant Pilot Program” in the Department of Education, was introduced to the Senate last week.

“Enhancing the STEM education programs offered in New Jersey, as well as their accessibility, will correlate to greater success and equality amongst under-represented demographics. It will create a stronger workforce with more skilled workers and strengthen the economy, overall, for the state,” said Senator Scutari (D-Middlesex/Somerset/Union). “Statistics show the influence race and socioeconomic status have on students’ STEM fluency throughout the country. Expanding access to these programs will assist in shrinking the gender and ethnic gaps in our workforce.

“STEM programs are special in the way students are taught them — not only to gain knowledge, but also to develop skills from hands-on work. This method promotes greater retention of knowledge, equipping students with valuable skills as they head to college and into the world to pursue careers.”

The program would provide grants to assist school districts in creating or enhancing STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education programs and increasing their accessibility for students.