[Techtaffy Newsdesk]

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a not-for-profit organization founded by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology, and the National Parent Teacher Association (National PTA) have formed a national alliance to promote science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in K-12 education.

The National PTA will receive support from FIRST in the form of resources such as materials, guidelines, and criteria for starting robotics teams, as well as marketing support. In turn, National PTA will recruit their own members and volunteers across the nation to assist FIRST regional, affiliate, and operational partners in growing teams and Sponsors in their areas.

“As data shows that American students now rank 25th in math and 21st in science, it’s crucial for families to be engaged in ways that can help our nation’s students return to the head of the class. We’re proud to support this program and help link valuable resources and programs with families and students,” said Betsy Landers, National PTA President.

Members of the National PTA will work with regional FIRST leadership, partners, and events at the local level to increase awareness of and support to FIRST within their own communities. The ultimate goal of the Alliance between FIRST and the National PTA is to increase the numbers of active participants – both students and adult Volunteers/Mentors/Coaches – across all FIRST programs.

[Image Courtesy: FIRST]