Reps. Brown, Lipton, Bauer, Slavens, Barnett, Constan, Darany, LeBlanc, Liss and Segal offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 221.

A resolution to declare March 25-31, 2012, as STEM Awareness Week in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, STEM education refers to the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; and

Whereas, STEM awareness started as a way to promote education in these related areas so that students would be prepared to study STEM fields in college and pursue STEM-related careers; and

Whereas, Students who engage in STEM activities are more engaged in their education and learning new ideas, are able to frame problems and apply understanding to other situations, and are technologically literate, understanding the nature of technology, and the skills needed to apply it appropriately; and

Whereas, A globally competitive, knowledge-based economy is a fact of life for students—now and in the foreseeable future—and science, technology, engineering and mathematics are critical drivers in that economy; and

Whereas, STEM occupations are among the highest paying, fastest growing and most influential in driving economic growth and innovation; and

Whereas, Individuals employed in STEM fields enjoy low unemployment, prosperity, and career flexibility; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare March 25-31, 2012, as STEM Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.