Furthermore, the United States has dropped in the rankings for mathematics achievement from 25th in 2009 to 36th in 2012. (6) NAE, along with other peer reviewed publications and studies from universities around the country have examined the benefits of partnerships between schools and outside organizations. Partnerships for Progress and Prosperity Act programs as well as experiential learning play an important role in training students for the jobs of the future. 3. Grant program (a) In general From the amounts appropriated under subsection (h), the Secretary of Education shall award grants to eligible entities to improve the education of students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (in this section referred to as STEM ) and prepare such students to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees and careers in such fields. (b) Application To receive a grant under this section, an eligible entity shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, which shall include a description of— (1) the local, regional, or national employer in a STEM field with which the eligible entity will partner or collaborate to carry out activities under subsection (c)(2)