Science

Millions of Americans may be out of work, but numerous surveys have shown lots of job opportunities in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (dubbed STEM by the analysts) — so why aren’t more students considering them? A new study indicates many kids feel getting into those professions would simply be “too challenging.”

Brazil's "Science Without Borders" project will send 11 Brazilian undergrads to Missoula this spring. The program is designed to help Brazil develop in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics through international study. Because of the program's focus, the new students are likely to take classes at Montana Tech, the College of Forestry and Conservation, and the Universty of Montana's highly rated Skaggs School of Pharmacy.

Montana education officials say about three-quarters of Montana's schools are meeting the federal education requirements for yearly progress. Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau says Montana students and teachers have been working very hard to improve test scores in reading, math and science and believes that work shows.