One Million Youth Scientists by 2013

4-H programs across the United States are equipping young people with valuable life-long skills to become successful contributing members of our global society. In order to meet the demands of global competition, the National 4-H Council has announced an initiative to engage one million young people in science programs by 2013.

America is currently facing a shortage of scientist. In fact, only 18 percent of U.S. high school seniors are proficient in science (NAEP 2005) and a mere 5 percent of current U.S. college graduates earn science, engineering or technology degrees compared to 66 percent in Japan and 59 percent in China.

4-H at the national, state and local levels strive to provide youth with the educational opportunities to compete in our global society. To address the demand for science and technology professionals, 4-H programs across America are working to engage one million new young people in science programs by 2013. According to 4-H.org, currently, nationwide five million youth participate in science focused 4-H programs.

The Johnson County 4-H and youth development program is seeking opportunities to incorporate science curriculum into current educational programs and creating new programs to address the increased demand of science professionals. Our approach is comprehensive—from our grass root projects like foods and nutrition and animal projects to robotics and rocketry.

An emphasis in science and technology programs will allow the Johnson County 4-H Program to reach new audiences and to continue to provide relevant educations programming to our young people. One new program available to 4-H'ers and youth not enrolled in our 4-H program will be a science and technology camp scheduled for June 12 and 13. Participants will explore science, robotics, aerospace and technology projects during this two day, day camp. Additional details about this camp can be found at our Camp page.

Johnson County 4-H membership is open year-around. Full 4-H membership is available for all youth ages 7-18. Click here learn more about the Johnson County 4-H program.