TARTAGLIONE SEEKS RESTORATION OF FUNDING FOR "SCIENCE IN MOTION"

            HARRISBURG, May 7 - State Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione joined colleagues and teachers in the Capitol this week to urge restoration of funding for a critical science education partnership.

“We need to support and fund programs like ‘Science In Motion’ so that every student in Pennsylvania has an opportunity to experience the wonderful and exciting world of science,” Tartaglione told supporters. “I urge all those who understand the need for Pennsylvania to rekindle student interest in science to contact the Governor and advocate for the funding necessary to continue this important program.”

            In what has become an annual budget ritual, Gov. Rendell has eliminated funding for the program in favor of other education initiatives in his budget proposal.  Because of its national reputation and local support, members of the legislature have fought to restore the funding.

            “Science in Motion” is the product of the Pennsylvania Basic Education/Higher Education Science and Technology Partnership.  It is a group of 11 colleges and universities providing science outreach programs to more than 200 school districts across the state.

            In Philadelphia, Drexel University has served about 4,000 students and 45 teachers in 21 schools.  By bringing instructors and equipment into classrooms, students were able to conduct scientific experiments on a variety of levels.

“Drexel’s Science in Motion has also organized workshops and a laboratory for Philadelphia teachers and provides a scholarship opportunity for students funded by the National Science Foundation,” Tartaglione said. “This same assistance is brought to schools throughout the Commonwealth by at least 10 other colleges and universities.”

            The “Science in Motion” program has been featured on ABC network news and was recognized as a key innovation by the National Council on State Governments.