Washington Post: A presidential panel today said America's math education system is "broken" and called on schools to focus lessons to ensure children from preschool to middle school master key skills.

The National Mathematics Advisory Panel was convened by President Bush in April 2006 to address concerns that many of today's students lack the math know-how needed to become tomorrow's engineers and scientists. The 24-member panel of mathematicians and education experts announced recommendations to improve instruction and make better textbooks and even called on researchers to find ways to combat "mathematics anxiety."

International test scores released last year showed 15-year-olds in the United States trailed peers from 23 industrialized countries in math.

The report comes days after Microsoft chairman Bill Gates testified in Congress that the Federal government, which pours money into basic research graduate school students in science and engineering programs, is essentially subsiding the education of foreign students and then losing their talent when they cannot stay in the country after graduating. More than 60% of graduate school students in science and engineering programs are from abroad.

“I believe this country stands at a crossroads,” said Gates, adding that if these issues are not addressed, then innovation, the engine of economic progress in the United States, will shift to other nations that are more committed to technological excellence, costing the country many high-paying jobs.

Related links
Audio from NPR on Bill Gates testimony