ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning, released the following statement in response to President Obama's announcement on the National Lab Day initiative.

"The National Science Teachers Association commends President Obama for the prominent focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and for his support for National Lab Day.

It is critical for all of us -- teachers, parents, scientists, engineers, non-profit organizations, government agencies, foundations, corporations, and others -- to work together to bring about positive change in education. Together we can achieve our common goal of giving every child quality, inquiry-based learning experiences and the opportunity to excel in science and math. National Lab Day advances us toward that goal by providing a platform to scale hands-on nationwide learning and fostering collaboration between local schools and members of the STEM community.

National Lab Day is indeed more than just a day. It is a vital step towards reforming science and math education in the U.S., so that we can not only sustain our nation's global competitiveness, but help students' develop their critical thinking skills and prepare them to be active participants in today's society.

NSTA is proud to be a sponsor of this important initiative to reinvigorate science and math education in our nation's schools."

National Lab Day (NLD), which will occur annually in the first week of May, is a new nationwide initiative to encourage scientific and mathematic experimentation and invention in young Americans through collaborations between volunteers, students and educators. For more information about NLD, visit the official website at www.nationallabday.org.

About NSTA

The Arlington, VA-based National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), www.nsta.org, is the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA's current membership includes more than 60,000 science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and others involved in science education.

SOURCE National Science Teachers Association

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http://www.nsta.org
http://www.nationallabday.org