Building Blocks of Stem Act

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, research shows that early exposure to science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science has positive impacts on a broad spectrum of student outcomes. For example, early math knowledge not only predicts later math success; it also predicts later reading achievement.

Studies have also found that children who engage in scientific activities from an early age develop positive attitudes towards science and are more likely to pursue STEM expertise and careers.

H.R. 1665, the Building Blocks of STEM Act, directs the National Science Foundation to support STEM education research focused on early childhood and to award grants to encourage young girls to pursue computer science learning.

Across the country, the share of STEM jobs has expanded significantly, with STEM employment increasing from 9.7 million to 17.3 million from 1990 to 2018.

Data suggests that this trend will continue, and the U.S. is struggling to meet that demand. To meet it, we must engage children-- particularly young girls--in STEM in early childhood and sustain that interest as they grow.

More graduates with STEM degrees means more advanced American technologies and a more robust economy.

But it is not just about the economy. STEM graduates have the potential to develop technologies that could save thousands of lives, jump-start a new industry, or even discover new worlds.

By supporting more hands-on STEM engagement for younger ages, we are supporting and investing in America's future.

In the 115th Congress, the House passed this legislation unanimously, and I hope it will do so again today. I want to thank Representative Baird and Representative Stevens for reintroducing this bipartisan bill and moving it forward.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

The love of learning starts young, and the Building Blocks of STEM bill promotes this by prioritizing a focus on early childhood STEM education. It gives us the opportunity to encourage girls to get and stay engaged in STEM, helping us to improve our educational programs and diversify the STEM workforce.

I, again, thank Representative Baird and Representative Stevens for reintroducing this bipartisan bill.

As the House did in 2015, I encourage this body to support and pass this legislation unanimously.

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