Science is gaining momentum in American schools

It has taken prodding by industry, business, and government leaders – alarms going off, even – but science education is getting an upgrade in many classrooms across the region.

First graders are watching insect eggs hatch, feeding the larvae and learning words like metamorphosis.

High school students are signing up for course work in marine biology, pharmacology, engineering, and how the brain works.

And officials in many schools are adding class time and squeezing dollars out of tight budgets to improve science instruction and laboratories.

The question, not yet answered, is whether the newfound respect for science will boost student achievement to match math and science powerhouses in Asia and Europe.

By Connie Langland

Full Story: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/20100411_Science_is_gaining_momentum_in_American_schools.html