Few elected leaders in D.C. understand the importance of rigorous math and science training to America's future competitiveness and prosperity better than Rep. Vern Ehlers, a UC Berkeley trained nuclear physicist.
So it's not surprising to see the Republican from Grand Rapids sponsoring a series of bills to boost the standards of math and science education for the nation's young people.
One bill would provide incentives for to encourage stronger math and science training in elementary and secondary schools.
Another bill would bolster marine and freshwater research to control and eradicate invasice species and restore environmental systems.
Yet another bill would more closely assess the progress students are making in their math and science studies.
"Science, technology, engineering and math subjects are directly tied to our national economy and we must do all we can to ensure that all our students are equipped with at least a basic understanding of STEM subjects,” Congressman Ehlers said in a recent press release.
Dr. Ehlers also is a stronger supporter of ramping up public investment in rapid public transit to stem traffic congestion and reduce oil consumption. He's also a leading advocate for restoring unique environmental systems like the Great Lakes.
Did I mention this guy is a Republican, and that he represents one of the more conservative districts in the nation. A review of his impeccable and reasonable record reveals just how far the national conservative movement is off track.
