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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL)

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Rep. Mariani Participates in National Conference on State of Latino Education

Monday, October 7, 2013

ST. PAUL, MN – Last week, Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL – St. Paul) joined the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund and more than 55 Latino public officials from across the country to discuss the state of Latino education and strategies for ensuring access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education within the Latino community.

The event kicked off on Monday, September 30 and concluded today on Wednesday, October 2 as part of the NALEO Educational Fund’s 9th Annual National Summit on the State of Latino Education in Washington, D.C. The two-and-a-half day convening provided school board members, college trustees, and state legislators with a forum to initiate a dialogue around education reform and the critical topic of STEM education in this country.

“It was an honor to participate in this event,” said Rep. Mariani. “Finding ways to help young Latinos overcome hurdles to a good education, especially with regard to STEM fields, requires collaboration and cooperation from a broad range of stakeholders. This week’s conference was a positive step forward towards improving equity for Latino students and strengthening our nation’s economy overall.”

The economic competitiveness of the United States will depend on its ability to cultivate a STEM-ready workforce that is prepared to meet the needs of a 21st century job market.  Creating an education continuum within the Latino community that fosters academic preparation for students from early learning programs through higher education will be vital as Latinos represent the second largest population group in the country. 

Rep. Mariani had an opportunity to develop strategic partnerships with other leaders and engage in informational panels that cover the latest research, model programs, and policy recommendations regarding STEM education. Participants also hear dfrom a number of elected officials and experts that will help them advance STEM education access in their communities, including Colorado Lieutenant Governor Joseph Garcia, NALEO President and California State Senator Alex Padilla, University of Denver Professor Dr. Douglas Clements and University of Texas at Arlington Professor Dr. Ramon E. Lopez.

A full list of speakers who joined this year’s event is available on the NALEO Educational Fund website at http://www.naleo.org/2013EdSummit.html.