Mikulski Praises Induction of Climate, Ocean, and Weather Institute at Drew-Freeman Middle School

Press Release

Chairwoman of the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the National Science Foundation, praised the establishment of the Climate, Ocean, and Weather (C.O.W.) Institute at Drew-Freeman Middle School, which will provide an opportunity for Maryland students to learn about environmental science. The Institute was inducted at Drew-Freeman Middle School on Tuesday, October 4, as a result of funding from the National Science Foundation, the Suitland Family and Life Development Corporation (SFCDC) and Drew-Freeman Middle School.

"Right now, our nation is on a race for discovery and new knowledge, a race to remain competitive and to foster an innovation society. At the heart of this race is education," said Senator Mikulski. "I am glad to see the funds I put in the federal checkbook for science, engineering, technology, and mathematics education at the National Science Foundation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in action. I am so proud of the students and faculty at Drew-Freeman Middle School who are making Prince George's County a national hub of science and technology with students ready to fill the jobs of tomorrow."

"We greatly appreciate the efforts of our community partners to provide enrichment opportunities in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math," said Dr. William R. Hite, Jr., Superintendent of Schools. "Through their generous donation of time and resources, Drew-Freeman students will have access to unique programs that will ensure that they are college and career ready."

The new Institute will provide a tailored curriculum and serve to educate students and train our next generation of environmental scientists, stewards, and leaders. On October 4, the institute added three new programs headquartered within the middle school walls that will provide an incredible opportunity for local students to learn about environmental science. All three programs -- the SMILE (Science and Math Investigative Learning Experience) Club, the Entrepreneur Club, and the Climate Science Academy -- exemplify aspects of the Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) model, and will be implemented in the Suitland Community via Drew-Freeman Middle School students. The goal of these programs is to increase awareness of climate science among students, parents, and teachers, while expanding the field's understanding of effective strategies to engage and sustain student interest in climate science and remote sensing.

"Education is an investment in our future. I am proud to invest in this inaugural class of 7th graders who are eager to embark on a learning adventure to better understand our changing world. These students will be the next generation of scientists, managers and informed leaders this country needs to address tomorrow's challenges," said Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. "This program serves as a crucial pipeline to science agencies like NOAA to secure a strong, diverse, and world-class workforce for the future."

"What I want my students to know and believe in their hearts is that they are truly capable, deserving, and able," said Marla Dean, Ed.D., principal of Drew-Freeman Middle School. "As a community, Suitland has wrapped its arms around Drew Freeman Middle School, and together we are realizing our school motto, Educating all students with excellence and equity."

The Institute is supported in part by grant number DRL-1031015, funded by the National Science Foundation under the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers Program (ITEST Program).

Source