Girls in Leon County schools could soon be ahead of the curve when it comes to science, math and technology... thanks to a new after-school initiative.

The Science Days program will target minority middle school girls throughout the Big Bend... helping them to become more competitive in tomorrow's work force.

"We're trying to make sure they get that heavy science and mathematics background so they're more prepared to compete in the future work force," said Netia McCray.

The program is still seeking applicants, but only 7 girls have signed up so far.

Local universities say that figure mirrors their enrollment.

Last Fall more than 17 thousand female students were enrolled in undergraduate programs at Florida State... but less than three thousand were seeking a degree in science, math and technology related fields.

About one hundred females were exploring a degree in computer information sciences compared to nearly six hundred males.

School officials say they hope programs like this one will reverse the trend.

"I think just making it more fun to learn something that is challenging to a lot of students," said Leon County Schools' Shannon Lynch.

The group will be operating under a grant from the National Science Days Organization, but they're still looking for additional sponsors and volunteers.

For more information on how you can become involved in the Science Days program, visit the website at http://sciencedays.googlepages.com.