The National Science Board released a report on developing the next generation of innovators in the STEM disciplines.

It makes the case (and includes policy recommendations) for supporting advanced learners and advanced learning. The workgroup that developed the report was chaired by Dr. Camilla Benbow of Vanderbilt University, who was the vice chair of the National Math Panel. The report is available for download via a link on the NSB website at http://www.nsf.gov/nsb/stem/

[Below is a version of NAGC’s press release.]

National Panel of Experts: U.S. Is Squandering Its Most Promising Students

Illinois particularly at risk given funding reductions and lack of focus on gifted learners

(PALATINE, September 24, 2010) – An extensive, multi-year review by a panel of experts in science and math education has concluded the U.S. has failed to identify and develop our most promising students, crippling the nation's ability to produce the next generation of innovators.

Preparing the Next Generation of Stem Innovators:  Identifying and Developing our Nation’s Human Capital released recently by the National Science Board (NSB), paints a bleak picture of an education system that, over the past 50 years, has devolved from recognizing the fundamental need to identify and cultivate the talents of our high-ability students to one that ignores excellence and focuses disproportionately on basic skills.

The impact of this neglect is seen clearly here in Illinois. The state provides no funding to help local districts serve and support gifted learners and does not require appropriate instruction for such students.

"The NSB report confirms what parents and teachers have long seen in Illinois - our nation and state are neglecting the needs of our most promising and gifted students and that this neglect is hindering our ability to compete effectively in an increasingly competitive global economy," said Dr. Sally Walker, Executive Directorof the Illinois Association for Gifted Children.

"The report recognizes that while our nation's future innovation requires attention from many stakeholders and sectors, it is an obligation first and foremost for our education system.  If we fail to identify and cultivate our most promising minds beginning as early as possible, we will squander this talent and cripple our ability to compete and thrive in the years and decades to come," added Ann Robinson, President of the National Association for Gifted Children.

Preparing the Next Generation of STEM Innovators makes a clear call for action focused on three core goals:

·      providing opportunities for excellence

·      casting a wide net to identify talent

·      fostering an education ecosystem that supports our future STEM innovators