Businesses to aid schools in technology, math

BLOOMINGTON (AP) — Illinois businesses will partner with public schools to encourage learning in science, technology, engineering and math.

Gov. Pat Quinn announced the public-private partnership known as the Illinois Pathways Initiative on Thursday.

The aim of the state-funded program is to better prepare students for college and careers.

In his State of the State address last week, Quinn presented what he called the 2012 Illinois Jobs Agenda, which he said includes a mission to have at least 60 percent of adults getting college degrees or career certificates by the year 2025.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon says the program announced Thursday will move Illinois toward that goal. Simons says it will instill a love of science and technology in middle school and that will help students as they approach working age.