BACKJessica Onsurerz, Carlsbad Current-Argus l September 22, 2020
Carlsbad Municipal School District is one of three Permian Basin school districts to benefit from an investment in science and math education by ExxonMobil and the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI).
The College Readiness Program and Laying the Foundation — two programs which advance college placement and foundational science and math education — will begin in the 2020-2021 academic year, according to a news release from ExxonMobil.
Midland Independent School District and Ector County Independent School District, both in Texas, will also offer the program to students.
“ExxonMobil is one of the largest oil and gas operators in the Permian Basin, and we’ve heard from parents and educators that these programs would make a difference for their students and children,” said Bart Cahir, senior vice president of unconventional at ExxonMobil in a news release.
“Through our association with the National Math and Science Initiative, we’ve been able to increase the value we bring to communities where we operate by strengthening opportunities for today’s students and generations to come.”
NMSI improved math and science education across the United States where implemented and led to better performance on college placement exams, according to the news release.
“Proficiency in math and science is crucial to our country’s capacity for innovation and future economic growth, yet a growing number of today’s students lack foundational knowledge and skills in these subjects,” said Dr. Bernard A Harris, Jr., chief executive officer of the National Math and Science Initiative and the first Black astronaut to complete a spacewalk.
“With ExxonMobil’s generous support, we’re able to continue addressing this critical gap by expanding to school districts in the Permian region.”
NMSI programs include collaboration and goal setting with partner schools, intensive teacher training and support from expert educators, student study resources, lab and classroom supplies, exam subsidies, and greater access to advanced courses to broaden student participation, particularly among Black, Latino, female and military-dependent students. The nonprofit organization uses evidenced-based programming and has expanded its online training and resources to support teachers, students, and families during the COVID-19 pandemic.