U.S. Senator Patty Murray is backing a bill that would supply $15 million per year for women and minorities studying STEM education. Part of the $15 million is also expected to fund K-12 STEM education programs.

“A new bill co-sponsored by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray would authorize grants for outreach, mentoring and professional development programs that encourage women and minorities to enter STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields,” according to the Seattle Times.

“The legislation would also fund STEM education outreach programs in K-12 schools,” according to the report.

Women are being outnumbered in the STEM field for a variety of reasons. One of the most highlighted reasons comes from the “cool-factor” of STEM education.

“In all, the program would provide $15 million a year between 2017 and 2021 for the programs. The programs would be chosen, and the funds would be administered, by the National Science Foundation.”

Many are concerned that girls aren’t likely to choose to excel in STEM fields out of a fear of being judged. Now, programs are being put into place to encourage young girls to get involved in the field by showing them just how cool it can be.

“Women make up only 26 percent of STEM workers, according to a 2013 American Community Survey report on disparities in STEM employment,” according to the report.

“Other studies have shown that women are more likely than men to switch out of STEM majors, and about half of women working in STEM fields quit their jobs after 10 years.”

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Article by Navindra Persaud, Education World Contributor