Expressing support for designation of March 14, 2025, as "National Pi Day".
This is a non-binding House Resolution (H. Res. 221) in the 119th Congress that expresses support for designating March 14, 2025, as National Pi Day. The measure does not create new laws or funding; rather, it signals Congressional support for recognizing the mathematical constant pi and encourages educational activities related to pi and mathematics. The resolution highlights pi’s mathematical significance and uses the occasion to emphasize the importance of math and science education, referencing the National Science Foundation’s ongoing role in these areas and encouraging schools to observe Pi Day with activities that engage students in math. The resolution also references concerns about math education performance, citing TIMSS data to discuss gaps by race/ethnicity and poverty level, as well as a gender gap in math and science. It frames Pi Day as an opportunity to promote math education as part of preparing students for a knowledge-based economy.
Key Points
- 1Expresses support for designation of March 14, 2025, as “Pi Day” (National Pi Day) and its celebration around the world.
- 2Recognizes pi as the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, and notes that pi is an irrational number with an unending, non-repeating decimal expansion (illustrated by the statement that it has been calculated to over 202 trillion digits; pi ≈ 3.14 for commemorative purposes).
- 3Emphasizes the importance of mathematics and science education for children and a knowledge-based society; cites TIMSS data showing performance gaps among U.S. students by race/ethnicity and poverty level, and a gender gap in math and science.
- 4Acknowledges the National Science Foundation’s long-standing role in math and science education from elementary through graduate levels.
- 5Encourages schools and educators to observe Pi Day with activities that teach students about pi and engage them in studying mathematics.
- 6Note: The bill is introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology; sponsors include multiple representatives listed in the text.