SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, ART AND MATHEMATICS (STEAM) EDUCATION

WHEREAS, the innovative practices of art and design play an essential role in improving Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and advancing STEM research; and

WHEREAS, art and design provide real solutions for our everyday lives, distinguish United States products in a global marketplace, and create opportunity for economic growth; and

WHEREAS, artists and designers can effectively communicate complex data and scientific information to multiple stakeholders and broad audiences; and

WHEREAS, the tools and methods of design offer new models for creative problem-solving and interdisciplinary partnerships in a changing world; and

WHEREAS, artists and designers are playing an integral role in the development of modern technology; and

WHEREAS, artists and designers are playing a key role in manufacturing; and

WHEREAS, a new Congressional STEAM Caucus was created on January 28, 2013, with the Co-Chairs being Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), and Representative Aaron Schock (R-IL); and

WHEREAS, renowned cellist and arts education advocate Yo-Yo Ma at the 2013 Americans for the Arts Nancy Hanks Lecture on Arts and Public Policy called on policy makers nationwide to include the arts in STEM education,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors urges Congress to:

·         Recognize the importance of art and design in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields; and

·         Include art and design in the STEM fields during reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and the Higher Education Act; and

·         Join Representatives Bonamici and Schock as a member of the STEAM Caucus providing leadership to the House of Representative on this issue.