By Ellen H. King
October 20, 2003

At a September 23rd Cities United for Science Progress (CUSP) Science in the School Day, Laredo Mayor Elizabeth Flores and engineers of DuPont's Patrice Banks led a classroom of 3rd graders in a morning of science exploration. Upon learning of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and DuPont CUSP partnership, Flores invited CUSP to her city to assist her in reinforcing the importance of science education.

The Laredo Morning Times, a local Mexican community newspaper, and the local NBC, ABC, PBS, and Univision Affiliates covered the event. Coverage of the event, highlighting the mayor's commitment to education, appeared citywide.

During Laredo's Science in the School Day, Flores sat side-by-side with some of her youngest residents to conduct the nationally acclaimed elementary engineering experiment, the "Gumdrop Dome." Students learned basic engineering principles and about the possibility of a future career in engineering.

"Quality education of our children is a top priority," said Flores. "Bringing DuPont Company and its valuable science education resource to our community opens the doors of opportunity for our students to be exposed to the fields of science and engineering."

Banks of DuPont's Parkersburg (WV) plant, kicked-off the experiment by sharing her own successful experiences with engineering. Students heard first-hand the steps that Banks took throughout her education to ensure her success as an engineer.

Flores ended the event by inviting students to talk about their experience for the city-run cable station in attendance at the event. To commemorate the event and emphasize its importance, Flores sent videotaped copies of the morning to all participating children.

"We are pleased to stand with our partner DuPont in offering educational resources to mayors," noted Conference Executive Director Tom Cochran. "By investing in the education of our youth, we are investing in our future."

CUSP visits cities across the country and teams up with mayors to assist them in creating healthier, safer and more innovative and economically vibrant cities through science-based solutions. Science in the School Day is an initiative of the partnership created to inspire, maintain and expand students- interest in science and engineering. To learn more about the CUSP partnership program, contact CUSP Managing Director Ellen H. King at 202-861-6798 or send e-mail to eking@usmayors.org.