Tau Beta Pi is cognizant of the challenges currently faced by students in the USA, with respect to their preparation for the pursuit of careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Our high school graduates are lagging behind their peers in many developed countries with respect to their performance in mathematics and science. In many cases, these countries are our competitors in the global marketplace, and hence this impacts our economy.
Success of a national initiative of this type requires establishment and maintenance of a sustainable operation, which is embedded into the operations of the organization. Such an operation must be configured to capture and incorporate the creativity and ideas of the organization’s membership.
The mission of MindSET, the TBP National K-12 Math & Science Program, is to establish and support math and science intervention programs which contribute to enhanced preparation of students in the K-12 system, thus enabling them to qualify for the pursuit of careers in STEM disciplines, preparing them for competitive success in the global marketplace, and equipping them for driving the nation’s economy.
To increase the number of students in the K-12 system who successfully complete higher level math and science courses prior to graduation from high school. Specifically, more 8th graders must complete Algebra 1 and more 12th graders must complete calculus.