WASHINGTON, D.C. –
Senators Benjamin L. Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.) today announced the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded $30,000 to the Garrett County Board of County Commissioners for Project Lead the Way, a program that will help prepare 10th grade students for both careers and postsecondary education in engineering fields.
“Education is the cornerstone of the American Dream, and training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is essential to high-paying, high quality jobs that will drive the future of America’s economy and development.
This ARC grant will provide an important boost for Garrett County students as they prepare for a future in engineering and strive to achieve their American Dream,” said
Senator Cardin.
“I will continue to support programs like this that will provide Marylanders and all Americans with the knowledge and expertise for success in the 21st Century.”
“Right now, our nation is in an amazing race – a race for discovery and new knowledge, a race to remain competitive and to foster an innovation society.
At the heart of this race is education.
This ARC grant is a federal investment in education for the young people of Western Maryland,” said
Senator Mikulski.
“I’m proud that these funds will provide Garrett County high school students with career training in engineering fields that will prepare them to enter the workforce.
I will continue to fight to keep the young people of Western Maryland a priority in the federal checkbook.”
Project Lead the Way is a national education program that focuses on preparing students for careers and postsecondary education in the engineering fields.
It consists of a four year sequence of courses which, when combined with college preparatory mathematics and science, introduces students to the scope, rigor and discipline of engineering and engineering technology.
ARC funds will be used for the acquisition of program-dedicated computers for 20 students, completing the expansion of the full program to both high schools in the county.
The program itself will be a part of the curriculum of both county high schools.
In addition to ARC funds, local sources will provide $30,000, bringing the total project funding to $60,000.
The ARC is a federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life.
