BALTIMORE – The guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) hosted a breakfast for notable Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) educators, Oct. 14.
The breakfast was held in honor of 24 teachers from grades K-12 who were chosen as Teacher of the Year in their respective counties throughout Maryland for their contributions to STEM education.
Rear Adm. Charles W. Rock, Naval District Washington Commandant, spoke to the guests on the challenges the Navy and educators have developing, teaching, and training the current and future generations of students, Sailors and Marines to meet the ever-increasing need to fill STEM positions to help safeguard the nation.
“Education is critically important to our national security,” said Rock. “There are plenty of opportunities to expose students to in the world of healthcare, information technology, computer science and engineering. The Navy needs bright minds and we will do whatever we can to help encourage youth to explore science, technology and math in interesting ways.”
Attending the breakfast was the Teacher of the Year for Queen Anne’s County, Tamara Forte, who said that the visit was like a field trip for the teachers.
“I am a kindergarten teacher at Churchill Elementary School and I understand the importance of informing today’s children of the importance of education,” said Forte.
“When children are young it is important to teach them everything they need to know, from reading and language arts to science, math and social studies. I am doing my part to ensure they leave with as much information as possible.”
The ship’s Supply Officer, Lt. Long Tran, spoke about how proud he was to meet them and show off his ship and Supply Division, who set up and cooked the meal.
“These are the teachers that are teaching our youth today,” said Tran. “They are … putting their energy and focus into our future leaders.”
The Executive Officer of Leyte Gulf, Lt. Cmdr. Steven McCauley, expressed his satisfaction with the visit.
“These teachers were exceptional. They asked a lot of awesome questions; they were totally engaged,” said McCauley. “I think at the end of the day they had great respect for what we do and, most importantly, what our Sailors do out here in the fleet, and the challenges and experiences they go through every day.
The day ended with a tour of the ship but not before Rock was able to thank all of the educators for the amazing things they do for the youth.
“I really appreciate all the things the teachers go out of their way to do to help our children,” said Rock. “If it wasn’t for the dedication teachers have, there would not be a strong presence of youth in the Navy. I look forward to working with the local education system and creating a stronger, more informed youth."
Date Taken: | 10.14.2016 |
Date Posted: | 10.15.2016 15:05 |
Story ID: | 212109 |
Location: | BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, US |
Web Views: | 125 |
Downloads: | 1 |
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