Funding
for Girls in Non-Traditional Subjects: The Go Girl Act
Representative
Lynn Woolsey (D-CA)
introduced a bill last month authorizing $50 million in grants
during fiscal year 2002 to encourage girls, grades 4 through 8,
to succeed in math, science, engineering and technology courses,
and pursue jobs in these fields. The bill also provides for “such
sums as may be necessary” to continue the programs for the four
succeeding fiscal years.
HR 1536, called the “Getting Our Girls Ready for the 21st
Century Act” or “Go Girl Grants,” states: “Stereotypes about appropriate
careers for females, a lack of female role
models, and a lack of basic career information significantly deters
girls’ interest in mathematics, science, engineering, and technology
careers.”
Along with encouraging girls to explore these subjects through
tutoring and mentoring programs, the bill would also fund programs
that enlist the help of parents. Funds could pay for female students
and their teachers to attend events and academic programs in these
subjects, purchase software designed for girls and offer field
trips.
For
more information and the full text ofn HR 1536, visit thomas.loc.gov
and search for HR 1536.
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