(DES MOINES) Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds today announced a series of town hall meetings across Iowa about the importance of giving students a great education in science, technology, engineering and math. Reynolds is co-chair of the Governor’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Advisory Council along with Mary Andringa, Vermeer Corp. CEO. The Council’s overarching goal is raising student interest and achievement in STEM and building a stronger STEM workforce pipeline.

The tour this spring will update Iowans on the progress being made by the Council, showcase student STEM presentations and seek feedback from community members about how the Council should set STEM priorities moving forward. Governor Branstad, Mary Andringa and local business leaders will join Reynolds at select town halls.

“Having the opportunity to engage with the students, parents, educators and workforce who are directly impacted by the Council’s work is extremely rewarding and eye-opening,” explained Lt. Gov. Reynolds. “These stops around the state will give us a look at the successes and the opportunities for further growth in the future.”

“We want to hear feedback on the progress the Governor’s STEM Council has made over the past two years, and the priorities we should set as we look ahead,” said Andringa. “The STEM town halls are a way to engage communities in conversation about the value of STEM education and STEM economic development.”

The public is welcome at the following STEM town hall events:

Thursday, May 8, 2014

2 p.m. Lt. Gov. Reynolds hold Northeast STEM Town Hall

Gladbrook-Reinbeck High School Auditorium

600 Blackhawk Street

Reinbeck, IA