In colleges and in the workforce, a strong foundation in SMT is increasingly becoming the key to success. Nevertheless, research reveals that fewer than half of U.S. high school graduates are ready for first-year college mathematics and science. In truth, the K-12 standards being set in many districts do not adequately prepare all students for the expectations they will encounter in college and on the job. Another problem is communication. Too many people outside of SMT professions do not realize how important these skills are. A large part of the public engagement effort to foster support for SMT programs will revolve around making this case to the community. Parents, students, and community leaders need to understand how crucial these programs are.

Consider inviting back recent graduates who have spent some time in college or in the job market. Listen to their stories and use them to help guide and generate support for better programs. Make sure that the standards your district sets are preparing students for what they will encounter after graduating.

• How does SMT education influence college admissions?
• How does SMT education influence success in college?
• How can I get my board talking about this?

How does SMT education influence college admissions?

• A chapter from the U.S. Department of Education’s publication Preparing Your Child for College that describes which high school courses improve student college admissions. Includes sections on mathematics and science.
• A Harvard publication describing the high school courses that increase student admissions at top colleges and best prepare students for college success. Includes sections on mathematics and science. 
• A 2008 Wall Street Journal article that examines college admissions and discusses the benefits of attending a science and math-oriented public high school. 

How does SMT education influence success in college?

• An executive summary of a Department of Education monograph demonstrating that of all pre-college curricula, the highest level of mathematics studied in high school has the strongest influence on bachelor’s degree completion. 
• A research-based report from the testing group ACT demonstrating that U.S. public school students are under-prepared for college level SMT courses. Includes suggestions for action. 
• A research-based report from ACT addressing the gap between high school practice and post-secondary expectations. Addresses a range of subjects including science and mathematics. 
• An issue brief on preparing high school students for college education generally (not SMT specific) from the Alliance for Excellent Education.
• An article from the New York Times addressing the lack of student preparedness for college-level courses. 

What experiences have other districts had with this?