The PPG Industries Foundation has donated $50,000 to the Math and Science Collaborative (MSC), a program operated by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit that helps K-12 educators gain a better understanding of how mathematical and scientific practices are used in the workplace.

“We are grateful for support from PPG and the PPG Industries Foundation in continuing to provide opportunities that strengthen the teaching and learning of math and science,” said Nancy Bunt, program director of the Math and Science Collaborative. “It is an example of how Southwestern Pennsylvania can work together to better prepare all students to fully participate in the future as mathematically and scientifically literate citizens.”

Under MSC direction, teachers and administrators from three Southwestern Pennsylvania school districts visited a PPG Industries facility and local sites of two other companies to observe how educational standards for math and science relate to actual workplace activities, and to learn how they can make teaching in their schools more applicable to real-world practices.

According to Bunt, the MSC coordinates efforts and focuses resources through innovative, evidence-based, regional approaches to the teaching and learning of math and science from preschool through college. The MSC Steering Council is comprised of representatives from school districts, nonprofit organizations, higher-education institutions, corporations and other stakeholders committed to strengthening the teaching and learning of mathematics and science.

“PPG is strongly committed to supporting the communities where its employees work and live, especially through educational programs that emphasize the importance of the STEM disciplines,” said Mehran Arbab, PPG director of glass science and technology and a member of the MSC Steering Council. “By collaborating with educators on such science, technology, engineering and math initiatives, PPG can help prepare tomorrow’s leaders in STEM-related careers that will be essential to advancing U.S. and global industries.”

Established in 1951, the PPG Industries Foundation demonstrates the values of PPG Industries by enhancing the quality of life in communities where the company has a presence. Interests of the foundation, in order of priority, are education, human services, culture and arts, and civic and community affairs. PPG also supports charitable causes by encouraging employees’ volunteerism and board service with nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit www.ppgfoundation.com.