Good afternoon,
I wanted to let you know that the U.S. House of Representatives has unanimously passed the Mathematical and Statistical Modeling Education Act (H.R. 730), marking an important step forward in how STEM is taught in America's classrooms. This legislation reimagines math education by embedding real-world problem-solving, data science, and computational thinking into the K-12 learning experience.
Sponsored by Reps. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) and Jim Baird (R-Ind.), the bi-partisan bill addresses the growing demand for a highly skilled STEM workforce by modernizing the way students engage with mathematical and statistical modeling – tools critical for navigating challenges in healthcare, national security, finance, logistics and more.
INFORMS has been actively involved with this legislation for several years, helping to craft its language to include operations research, analytics, and data science, ensuring that modern math instruction emphasizes real-world modeling, computational thinking, and interdisciplinary learning that reflect the evolving demands of our data-driven world. A copy of the bill can be found here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/730/text.
In a time when scientific credibility is under pressure, this bipartisan bill is a positive reminder that science still matters. Thanks to the leadership of Representatives Houlahan and Baird, this legislation reinforces that operations research, analytics, and data science are foundational to addressing the United States' long-term needs in a vibrant STEM workforce.
A similar version of this legislation passed the House last Congress but stalled in the Senate. Given its overwhelming support this time, we are hopeful the Senate will recognize its importance-and INFORMS will continue to advocate for its passage.
Key Highlights of the Legislation
• Modernizes K-12 STEM Education: Integrates mathematical and statistical modeling, data science, and operations research into everyday classroom learning.
• Leverages Existing NSF Funds: Directs the National Science Foundation to provide competitive grants that support innovative, real-world teaching practices.
• Centers Real-World Skills: Promotes problem-, project- and performance-based learning to prepare students for modern STEM careers.
• Recognizes Operations Research: Officially defines and elevates operations research as essential to decision-making across sectors.
• Launches National Study: Commissions the National Academies to assess best practices and challenges in implementing modeling education nationwide.
• Focuses on Equity and Access: Supports programs that engage underrepresented students and prepare educators with inclusive, high-impact tools.
• Sunsets in 2029: Ensures accountability and review with a built-in expiration date for funding authority.
Please let me know if you have any questions about this bill or our other ongoing advocacy work.
Best,
Jeff
------------------------------
Jeffrey M. Cohen, MBA
Chief Strategy Officer
INFORMS
jcohen@informs.orglinkedin.com/in/jmcsc
------------------------------