Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) recently presented the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) with a $250,000 grant designed to further science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) educational outreach programs across the state. The grant will be used by the MSDE over the next two years to help build a pipeline of STEM-prepared Maryland graduates, which are critical to the state’s aerospace and biomedical industries.
The funds will expand the Primary Talent Development Early Learning Program in grades pre-k — 2 in selected schools to help encourage STEM subjects at an early age. Funding also will be used to implement Project Lead the Way Gateway to Technology, an activities-based program designed to help students see the connections among STEM courses at the middle school level. There also is funding for STEM Maryland Summer Centers for gifted and talented students, as well as other activities.
“This grant will help broaden the significant progress made to date in encouraging — at a young age — student interest in math and science-related studies, regardless of their career pursuits,” said Rick Schmaley, vice president of human resources and administration at Northrop Grumman’s Linthicum, Md.-based Electronic Systems sector, in announcing the award on Dec. 14 before the State Board of Education. “Without a strong educational base in math and science, it’s difficult — though not impossible — for students in high school and beyond to be successful academically in preparing themselves for engineering-related career fields.”
“Northrop Grumman has been a strong and steadfast partner in Maryland education initiatives for many years,” said Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools. “Our State is so fortunate to have corporate citizens such as Northrop Grumman work with us to continue the improvement going on in Maryland public school classrooms. It isn’t just the funds they provide, but also the personal commitment of many Northrop Grumman staff members. I have seen scientists and engineers working with our students and teachers, explaining scientific principles and joining in classroom work.”
Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.
Contact: Jack Martin, Jr. Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems 410-765-4441 jm.martin@ngc.com
