Educators

STEM Enhancement Grant

The next application cycle of STEM Enhancement Grants will begin October 12, 2009.

STEM Enhancement Grants, funded by the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation, improve curriculum and inquiry-driven teaching strategies in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) classrooms by supporting teacher initiated projects and activities.  The projects promote interest in STEM fields and career options, support innovative teaching methods and include hands-on, inquiry based student activities.  Industry or community related projects are encouraged but not required. Teachers may use the $1500 grants to enhance or to expand the use of technology and project based learning in the classroom by purchasing specialized software, hardware, lab kits, multi media equipment, or other tools.  

STEM Education Grant Eligibility Requirements

1. Grant applicants must be a public, parochial, or private school teacher or curriculum coach for grades 7-12 in Arkansas.

2. The equipment purchased with this grant must be used by students in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math classes.

3. Equipment included in the budget may be specialized software, hardware, lab kits, multi media equipment or other tools.  Non-consumables, books, or equipment provided by the school as part of a normal laboratory or classroom will not be funded.  General technology equipment such as document cameras, projectors, laptops, cameras will only be considered if the use of the tool can be tightly joined to the curriculum project with creative and innovative uses.  There should be proof this equipment is not standard in the applicant’s school.

4. Classroom projects or learning activities must support the Arkansas curriculum frameworks, ISTE standards, or 21st Century Skills.

5.Classroom projects or learning activities must be related to STEM or STEM career awareness.  (Projects related to industry or community, strengthen the STEM career path.) Teachers are encouraged to develop creative curriculum plans that will utilize new skills and technologies or will focus on the latest science and math advancements.

6. Equipment purchased should be functional in several activities or multiple grade levels.

7. Recipients will provide a summary of the success of the project and feedback that includes the student responses to the curriculum activities and the use of the equipment.  They will also agree to assessment procedures and site visits determined by the Authority’s external evaluators.

For questions or concerns, contact Becky Hart, Education Outreach Coordinator, Arkansas Science & Technology Authority at 501 682 8187 or becky.hart@arkansas.gov.