A two-year College Readiness Program (CRP) from the National Math and Science Initiative is launching at military-connected Pinecrest and Union Pines High Schools near the Ft. Bragg Army Installation. The U.S. Department of Defense funds the program.
After one year in NMSI’s CRP, students at military-impacted schools average a 45 percent increase in mastery of college-level concepts in math and science — compared to the national average increase of 5.6 percent. That increase is 81.5 percent for Black students, 34 percent for Latinos and 38.4 percent for females.
Students with family members serving in the military move an average of six to nine times while they’re in elementary and secondary school. NMSI’s CRP leverages the College Board’s proven Advanced Placement framework, preserving local control and creating consistent learning across all schools. That means students are on pace from their first day in a new school – making all those moves a little easier.
“Cutting-edge educational opportunities for our DoD students is a combat-multiplier for Fort Bragg,” said Col. Scott Pence, Fort Bragg Garrison Commander. “Programs that enrich education for military families support the CSA’s Army People Strategy. When we take care of our families, we will have a stronger and more committed Army. We appreciate our local school districts, NMSI, and DoD Stem for providing this educational initiative to our military families.”
As a nonprofit whose mission is to advance STEM education so all students, especially those furthest from opportunity, can reach their highest potential, NMSI has served more than 250 U.S. schools that have significant enrollment among military-connected students.
“Moore County Schools is delighted to partner with DoDSTEM and the NMSI CRP to broaden our students’ access to STEM-related college-level academic opportunities. NMSI’s package broadens our existing robust spectrum of STEM programs and services from kindergarten through the senior year,” said Moore County Schools Superintendent Dr. Bob Grimesey.
NMSI is a member of the Defense STEM Education Consortium, which is committed to helping the department improve access for all students to pursue STEM careers and to consider Defense laboratories as places of employment.
Contributed.
