Innovations In Pre College Outreach: Scouts Explorer Posts

Public information indicates that fewer American youth are selecting science and engineering as desired careers. General discussions with underrepresented populations revealed that most students view mathematics and science as very difficult subjects that require a lot of time and hard work to achieve above passing grades. As underrepresented populations become the majority in Texas and other midwestern states, innovative approaches must be developed to excite and encourage high school students to consider science and mathematics as primary building blocks for the future. The Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) NASA Center for Applied Radiation Research (CARR) adopted the concept of teaming with The Boy Scouts of America to establish joint Explorer Posts with local high schools as a primary component of outreach. The university and high school Math, Science or Environmental Clubs conduct various activities to excite and encourage middle and high school students to do their best in science and mathematics. The Boy Scouts of America insures each member, thus the university does not incur added liabilities. At the university level, the students get a greater vision of how our country, globe and universe are connected though various forms of science (environment) and mathematics (money). Selected activities and benefits are the primary topics of discussion.