Texas Governor Cuts Virtual Ribbon for Opening of Newest T-STEM Academy

Governor Rick Perry today participated in a virtual ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Manor New Tech High School, which focuses on preparing Texas students for high-tech jobs of the 21st Century. The Manor New Tech High School is one of 15 Texas Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (T-STEM) Initiative academies opening around the state this year. T-STEM is a $71 million private-public venture started two years ago to prepare Texas high school graduates to globally compete in the 21st Century workplace by preparing students in the core disciplines of math, technology, engineering and science. 

"T-STEM academies will help us close the math and science gap in today's schools before it becomes a salary gap in tomorrow's workplace, and an opportunity gap for Texas families," Perry said.

Perry was joined at the ceremony by acting Texas Education Agency Commissioner Robert Scott, state elected officials and local education leaders. 

The nation's demand for scientists and engineers is expected to double in comparison to all other occupations. Yet, today relatively few American students are choosing careers in science and engineering.

"We are here today to accelerate our children toward a brighter future," Perry said. "Our workforce must be continually renewed and refined through education if we want to maintain our edge in the global economy."