Grants will be made to organizations supporting Middle and High School students participating or interested in advanced STEM programs and who ultimately want to pursue a college degree in a STEM-related field. Organizations that have invested in careful planning and consideration of various elements of their STEM program who are providing students with a comprehensive and engaging educational experience and who meet some or all of the below objectives should apply:

1. Basic Objective:

• The supported programs’ primary goals should include but are not limited to, fostering a love for STEM, preparing students for college and careers in STEM fields, and promoting problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

2. Curriculum Development:

• Have developed or are developing a rigorous and integrated STEM curriculum that aligns with national and state standards and could offer a mix of core STEM subjects, including mathematics, science, technology, and engineering.

• Integrate hands-on, project-based learning to encourage students to apply their knowledge and solve real-world problems.

• Include interdisciplinary courses that emphasize the connections between STEM disciplines and careers.

3. Grade Levels and Progression:

• Programs that are designed with a curriculum that progressively builds on concepts and skills year by year.

4. Specialized Tracks:

• Programs that offer specialized tracks within their existing framework, such as computer science, biomedical science, environmental science, or robotics, based on student interests and local industry demands.

5. Highly Qualified Teachers:

• Programs that emphasize hiring and retaining experienced, certified STEM teachers who are passionate about their subjects and skilled in project-based learning methodologies.

6. State-of-the-Art Facilities:

• Programs that have access to well-equipped laboratories, maker spaces, and technology resources for hands-on experimentation and innovation.

7. Partnerships and Externships:

• Programs that forge partnerships with local universities, research institutions, and STEM-based companies to provide students with opportunities for internships, mentorships, and real-world experiences.

8. Enrichment Activities:

• Offer extracurricular activities such as STEM clubs, science fairs, hackathons, and robotics competitions to extend learning beyond the classroom.

9. Professional Development:

• Provide ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers to stay current with STEM advancements and teaching methodologies.

10. Assessment and Evaluation:

• Develop a system for assessing student progress and program effectiveness. Consider using a mix of standardized tests, project assessments, and teacher evaluations.

11. Parent and Community Engagement:

• Involve parents and the community in STEM education by hosting events, workshops, and STEM-related family activities.

12. Resources and Funding:

• Organizations seeking funding should be able to show a history of secure and adequate funding through grants, partnerships, and budget allocations to support the program's infrastructure, materials, and technology needs.

13. Continuous Improvement:

• Establish mechanisms for continuous program evaluation and improvement based on feedback from students, teachers, and stakeholders.

14. College and Career Guidance:

• Provide college and career counseling services to help students navigate STEM-related educational and career paths.

15. Showcase Achievements:

• Celebrate student achievements and projects through exhibitions, showcases, and publications to inspire and motivate others.

16. Adapt to Technological Advancements:

• Stay current with emerging technologies and trends in STEM fields and update the curriculum accordingly.

17. Sustainability:

• Develop a long-term sustainability plan to ensure the program's viability over time understanding that the success of funded programs will depend on a collaborative effort involving educators, administrators, parents, and the community. Organizations should be regularly assessing and adjusting their programs to meet the evolving needs and interests of their students.