An understanding of science and technology makes people better able to manage their personal lives and understand issues of public policy such as global warming, energy use, and poverty. Jobs in science, engineering, math and technology (STEM) pay 12%-30% more than non-STEM jobs, but the current US student population ranks only 17th in science and 23rd in math as compared to the rest of the world. The Smithsonian Science Education Center aims to increase student proficiency in K-12 science education by working with school districts to build awareness of the problem and opportunities, creating plans to reform science curricula, and fostering the professional development of STEM faculty.