April 2007
A message from Director Dr. Cinda-Sue DavisThose of us who have lived and worked in Michigan over the past several decades have watched as the state has struggled to transition from a manufacturing economy to a knowledge-based economy. For the past century, Michigan citizens could earn a very good living with just a high school diploma and a lifetime career in the auto industry. Unfortunately, though still widely believed by many Michigan parents, that is no longer the case. A well-educated workforce, particularly those with degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM), is critical to the future development of the state. This well-educated workforce must include women and historically underrepresented minorities, the two groups who make up more than half of Michigan’s population but who traditionally have not entered STEM careers. A new report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on state educational effectiveness finds that America’s K-12 schools are failing their students and putting American’s future competitiveness at risk. See the report “Leaders and Laggards” at www.umchamber.com. The State of Michigan receives middling grades in this report, earning only “C’s” in overall academic achievement, academic achievement of low-income and minority students, return on investment, truth in advertising about student proficiency, rigor of standards, and postsecondary and workforce readiness. It received a “B” grade for 21st century teaching force and flexibility in management and policy. The lowest grade, a “D”, was given to the quality of collected data. As the WISE Program starts to prepare for another summer of science and engineering enrichment activities for middle school and high school students, in light of this report, the continued importance of these collaborative activities between the University and the community becomes even more obvious. The College of Engineering and the Ypsilanti School District have recently announced an innovative and exciting partnership to boost student interest in engineering careers and improve students’ skills in mathematics, science and technology. Developed in part by the College’s Diversity and Outreach Council, this initiative will pair UM graduate engineering students with Ypsilanti teachers to improve student achievement and motivate students to go to college. The program is similar to one used with great success by the California Institute of Technology and the Pasadena School System. The WISE Program has always been very fortunate to have the support of so many faculty and staff who participate enthusiastically and regularly in our outreach efforts. In the future there will be undoubtedly many more opportunities for everyone to contribute to these efforts. We hope to see many of you during our camps this summer, but if we don’t, we will see you again in the fall!
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