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"Discovery Communications To Launch New Multimedia, Multi-Year Science Initiative, "Be The Future," Supporting Obama Administration STEM Priorities -- DirecTV Boosts Support of Science Literacy with Move of Science Channel to Total Choice, Offering Millions of Additional Subscribers Access to Quality Science Programming -- November 23, 2009 (Silver Spring, Md.) Underscoring its commitment to leading in science-related programming and education, and answering President Obama's call to action to encourage science literacy, Discovery Communications today announced a new multimedia, multi-year nationwide initiative called "Be The Future." Over the next five years, Discovery will launch a programming block, education curriculum and tools to inspire student learning and careers in the sciences and support the White House's efforts behind science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. "Lifting American students from the middle to the top of the pack in STEM achievement over the next decade will not be attained by government alone," said President Obama. "I applaud the substantial commitments made today by the leaders of companies, universities, foundations, non-profits and organizations representing millions of scientists, engineers and teachers from across the country." "The exploration of science, technology and the natural world is central to the mission and DNA of Discovery Communications and we are incredibly proud to put the full muscle of our content and resources behind this critical White House initiative," said John S. Hendricks, founder and chairman, Discovery Communications. "Through 'Be the Future' we will spark the innate curiosity in school-aged viewers and people of all ages, help drive interest and leadership in science-related careers and inspire a lifelong interest in how science shapes our everyday lives." A sweeping, multi-platform initiative, "Be the Future" will be built on two primary Discovery businesse

"Our Mission: Through its network of more than 100 CEOs, Change the Equation pledges to create widespread literacy in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) as an investment in our nation that empowers us all. Our Goals: Change the Equation works towards three critical goals: Great Teaching: Improve STEM teaching at all grade levels, with a larger and more diverse cadre of highly capable and inspirational STEM teachers. Inspired Learners: Inspire student appreciation and excitement for STEM programs and careers to increase success and achievement in school and opportunities for a collegiate education, especially among females and students of color. A Committed Nation: Achieve a sustained commitment to improving STEM education from business leaders, government officials, STEM educators and other stakeholders through innovation, communication, collaboration and data-based decision making.

"The STEM Research and Modeling Network (SRMN) brings together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and funders who share the goal of using simulation modeling to strengthen student interest, participation and achievement in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The SRMN is hosted by the Business-Higher Education Forum and was founded in 2008 by BHEF, Raytheon Company, and The Ohio State University. The impetus of the SRMN was the development of the U.S. STEM Education Model, a simulation model developed by the Raytheon Company in order to examine ways to increase the number of students choosing to major and graduate in STEM disciplines. Using the model as a starting point, the SRMN provides an open innovation platform for developing a common set of STEM education and research priorities. By bringing together multiple stakeholders, the SRMN fosters dynamic collaboration around modeling and research to improve practice and policy."

"Welcome to the Siemens STEM Academy site : A premier online community designed exclusively to foster achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) through the collaboration of STEM educators, and sharing of "best"

UMASS STEM

"Launched in the West Virginia school system in 2007, Globaloria is a unique pilot course in public middle schools and high schools where students are creating original Flash-based video games about educational topics and social issues using an online social network for learning. Four WV colleges are also offering Globaloria to their students. Hailed by local, state, and national education leaders as a model for educational transformation, Globaloria increases student mastery of state content standards and objectives and 21st-century knowledge and skills by immersing students in a learning-by-doing, STEM game design and programming curriculum that incorporates the latest social media technology tools. Support for Globaloria is provided by Governor and First Lady Manchin, the West Virginia Department of Education, the WV Department of Education and the Arts, Benedum Foundation, Verizon WV, Knight Foundation, Caperton Fund, West Virginia University, and Marshall University."

"NASA's journeys into air and space have deepened humankind's understanding of the universe, advanced technology breakthroughs, enhanced air travel safety and security, and expanded the frontiers of scientific research. These accomplishments share a common genesis: education. As the United States begins the second century of flight, the Nation must maintain its commitment to excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education to ensure that the next generation of Americans can accept the full measure of their roles and responsibilities in shaping the future. NASA will continue the Agency's tradition of investing in the Nation's education programs and supporting the country's educators who play a key role in preparing, inspiring, exciting, encouraging, and nurturing the young minds of today who will be the workforce of tomorrow. In 2006 and beyond, NASA will continue to pursue three major education goals: Strengthening NASA and the Nation's future workforce; Attracting and retaining students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines; Engaging Americans in NASA's mission"

"Other key findings include: Respondents said science teachers play a larger role than parents in stimulating and sustaining interest in science. During the elementary school years, 70 percent of the respondents said teachers have the most influence. During high school, 88 percent said teachers do. Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of those polled said underrepresentation exists in their company's or organization's workforce. Leading workplace barriers for the female and minority chemists and chemical engineers include managerial bias (40 percent), company/organizational/institutional bias (38 percent), lack of professional development (36 percent), little or no access to networking opportunities (35 percent), and a lack of advancement opportunities (35 percent). Nearly three-quarters (70 percent) of the chemists/chemical engineers said it's harder for women to succeed in their field than it is for men, while two-thirds (67 percent) think it is more difficult for minorities to succeed than it is for non-minorities."

"The Division of Graduate Education (DGE) leads the National Science Foundation's efforts to attract the most talented US students into graduate studies, and to support them in their quest to become the leading scientists and engineers of the future. In the past year, DGE supported approximately 4500 students in graduate programs in the various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields"

"Sesame Workshop and The PNC Foundation Join White House Effort on STEM Education Sesame Workshop, the PNC Foundation, and President Obama Announce a $7.5 Million Investment in Mathematics and Science for Preschoolers"

"CAMM Worldwide is a new campaign from Connect a Million Minds (CAMM), Time Warner Cable's philanthropic commitment to connect youth to ideas, people and opportunities that will inspire them to become the problem solvers of tomorrow. Fact: The U.S. ranks 35th in math and 29th in science worldwide.* To better understand how attitudes and beliefs among young Americans contribute to our poor rankings, we traveled to three countries that rank significantly higher in math and science literacy - Finland, China and Australia - and interviewed young people, parents and teachers about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and related issues. We compared what we heard from these nations to responses from interviews conducted here in the U.S."

Founded in 1998, Quantum develops artificial intelligence (AI) tutoring, assessment and professional development software for K-12, higher education, distance learning and adult education. Our software is designed to be affordable and accessible to all students, including those with special needs. Quantum is the only AI company capable of integrating cutting-edge technology for textbook publishers, educational software providers or distance learning organizations. For the first time, the production costs and long lead times associated with content development and manual coding are eliminated. Not only do our partners experience tremendous production savings, they can offer uniquely-integrated AI learning products scientifically proven to increase test scores by as much as 50%. A "technology think tank", Quantum has leveraged over $8.5 million in federal research funding for new product development for its partners with support from the U.S. Department of Education, National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health. As a result of its revolutionary work in AI technology, Quantum was awarded the national Tibbitts Award, the highest recognition given by the federal government for exceptional small business achievement in leading-edge research, technology innovation and economic impact.

"Defined Learning has a proven track record of developing and providing award winning educational programs. The use and delivery of these programs has been statistically proven to impact student achievement in the classroom"

"The U.S. Department of Education is developing a new National Educational Technology Plan to provide a vision for how information and communication technologies can help transform American education. The plan will provide a set of concrete goals that can inform state and local educational technology plans as well as inspire research, development, and innovation. A draft plan is expected in early 2010. To gather input about improving education through the innovative use of technology, edtechfuture.org collected statements, written resources, and examples from the public from August 30-December 6, 2009. The comment period is now closed as the plan development team reviews submissions from the field. Thank you to all who shared their experience and expertise."

"The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense…" With an annual budget of about $6.06 billion, we are the funding source for approximately 20 percent of all federally supported basic research conducted by America's colleges and universities. In many fields such as mathematics, computer science and the social sciences, NSF is the major source of federal backing."

"About iNACOL: iNACOL, The International Association for K-12 Online Learning, is a non-profit organization that facilitates collaboration, advocacy, and research to enhance quality K-12 online teaching and learning. What we do: Facilitate the sharing, collection, evaluation, and/or dissemination of information resources and materials; Facilitate and disseminate research, and identify research needs; Advocacy and public policy that supports activities and legislation that removes barriers and supports effective online teaching and learning without respect to space and time; Develop and facilitate national K12 online learning standards; Create the voice of K12 within the larger education community with effective marketing, communications, and public relations activities; Assist and facilitate funding efforts for online K12 learning; Facilitate professional development for teachers and administrators; Identify and drive future directions in K-12 online education; Network and identify collaborative opportunities with other professional K-12 organizations; Drive educational initiatives that incorporate online learning and ways that transform positive learning outcomes for students; Mission: iNACOL strives to ensure all students have access to a world-class education and quality online learning opportunities that prepare them for a lifetime of success. Vision: Online learning is a powerful innovation that expands education opportunities. iNACOL supports access to high-quality online learning for all students. The International Association for K-12 Online Learning Believes: Online learning is a viable option that allows every learner to achieve a quality education; Models of reform in public and private education should incorporate online learning as a viable tool for change; Online learning is a viable path for educating children throughout their primary and secondary education years.

"The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is the trusted source for professional development, knowledge generation, advocacy, and leadership for innovation. A nonprofit membership organization, ISTE provides leadership and service to improve teaching, learning, and school leadership by advancing the effective use of technology in PK-12 and teacher education. Home of the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS), the Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology ( CARET), and the National Educational Computing Conference (NECC), ISTE represents more than 85,000 professionals worldwide. We support our members with information, networking opportunities, and guidance as they face the challenge of transforming education."

"What is Orchard? Orchard Software provides targeted instruction in math, reading, writing, language arts, and science for grades K-9. Combining formative and benchmark assessments aligned with state standards, motivating instruction, and qualitative data reporting, Orchard Software is the preferred choice for thousands of schools across the country looking to improve AYP. Orchard Software provides schools with a powerful solution that enables educators to adapt and deliver both individualized and whole class instruction that meets the needs of all students, including ELL learners and those with special needs. Orchard has proven effective in helping teachers differentiate instruction in multilevel classes and provides flexible pricing and scalability so that any classroom, school, or district can implement and take advantage of Orchard's research-based and motivating content."

"About PracticePlanet You want an easy-to-use tool to prepare your students for high-stakes tests. Your students want learning that's fun. Everyone wants to see test scores soar. Give your students the PracticePlanet advantage! It's Online PracticePlanet's study strategy takes full advantage of the technology available via the Web. The program contains a comprehensive bank of test items. Management of data is precise yet simple. There are no messy print materials-and data is automatically aggregated electronically. It's Targeted PracticePlanet's pretests identify areas of strength and weakness; students practice the assigned concepts, posttests show his or her level of growth. PracticePlanet's reporting feature gives you real time student data to pinpoint areas needing additional work. It's Motivating and Fun A variety of media keeps PracticePlanet content engaging and interactive. Students are rewarded with motivating, fun games and receive immediate feedback and test results that help them stay focused. Students who use PracticePlanet at school or at home will explore a new world of success on standardized tests. Teachers who use PracticePlanet will appreciate its effectiveness and ease of use. Administrators will appreciate the improvement in test scores and Adequate Yearly Progress. Standards-based Assessment For the last number of years-and especially since the enactment of No Child Left Behind legislation-states have been held increasingly accountable for the academic achievement of the children who attend their public schools. Most states have undertaken the tasks of codifying their academic standards and correlating curriculum and instruction to those standards. Most states have also implemented criterion-referenced summative assessment programs that annually test their students' growth in skill and knowledge. Each state test is developed using selected critical standards from the state's published ac

"What are Gizmos? ExploreLearning.com offers the world's largest library of interactive online simulations for math and science education in grades 3-12. We call these simulations Gizmos . Gizmos are: fun, easy to use, and help students develop a deep understanding of challenging concepts through inquiry and exploration. research-based, flexible tools used by teachers across all 50 states in a wide variety of ways. Gizmos are ideal for small group work, individual exploration, and whole class instruction using an LCD projector or interactive whiteboard. designed to supplement your existing curriculum. Gizmos are correlated to state curriculum standards and over 200 textbooks, making them easy to integrate into your instructional program. backed by first-rate training and professional development services that help maximize the value of your investment."