Partnership tackles math, science education; first meeting coming up October 25

[Source: Sarah Auffret, Arizona State University, 480-965-6991] — As Arizona strives to secure a place in the global economy, the lack of workers who are proficient in math and science poses a giant stumbling block. Current trends show the state will not have enough skilled workers. Recognizing this as a statewide challenge, Arizona State University and Pinnacle West Capital Corporation have invited 100 key political leaders and educators from K-12 through college to lay the groundwork for reversing the trend. The introductory meeting of a new coalition, Arizona Initiative in Math & Science Education (AZIMASE), will be held 8:30 – noon Oct. 25 at Pinnacle West, 400 N. 5th St., Phoenix. The University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University also are participating. Revealing statistics are that only 26% of Arizona 8th graders performed at the