20 U.S.C. § 3991: Purpose

improve the quality of instruction in the fields of mathematics and science in elementary and secondary schools; furnish additional resources and support for the acquisition of equipment, and instructional and reference materials and improvement of laboratory facilities in elementary and secondary schools; and encourage partnerships in science and mathematics education between the business community, museums, libraries, professional mathematics and scientific associations, private nonprofit organizations, appropriate State agencies and elementary and secondary schools. develop an interest in science on the part of the young people of America, provide an opportunity for the exchange of scientific information and ideas among members of the clubs, encourage the promotion of science fairs at which members of the clubs may display their scientific works and projects, and develop an awareness of the satisfactions to be derived through a career devoted to science. The Commissioner of Education [now Secretary of Education] may utilize any of the personnel and facilities of the Office of Education [now Department of Education] in carrying out this Act.”