STEM Next’s comprehensive approach creates seismic shifts in how STEM is offered and experienced outside of school so that every young person—no matter where they live—can discover their own passion for STEM and how it connects to future career pathways.
By working with afterschool leaders in every state, we’re able to rapidly scale the latest ideas and opportunities to programs on the ground. At the same time, we help state leaders adapt proven strategies to fit local realities, ensuring afterschool STEM programs help young people connect what they learn to their own experiences. This not only strengthens afterschool’s role in preparing youth for the future — it helps states sustain and build on these improvements over time.
We invest in bold strategies, connect partners across sectors, and equip the out-of-school field with tools and resources to scale what works. Leveraging national and state partners, we’ve proven that it’s possible to shift practice on a broad scale, making afterschool and summer STEM more engaging, effective, and widely available.
True collaboration happens when we bring the right people to the table. We intentionally connect local programs to STEM leaders at companies like Intel and Lockheed Martin, and we create large-scale gatherings that spark even more cross-sector partnerships.
We give state afterschool leaders access to research-based assessment tools—the Common Instrument Suite. With real data on hand, the network leads can see what’s working and identify gaps to keep raising the bar for STEM experiences.
We develop research-backed frameworks to integrate cutting-edge approaches and career connections into daily programming. We guide states to coordinate their efforts toward a bold, common goal while adapting to suit local contexts and priorities.
We train state and regional leaders so they can support implementation at the community program level. In nearly every state, afterschool networks have woven our strategies into year-round trainings and events for local program staff. So, once programs start using these methods, they become a standard part of how afterschool STEM is delivered.
From placing big bets to growing STEM leaders, we use the research to scale impact. Here is some of the significant research that shows afterschool STEM matters.
Youth are more likely to engage deeply in STEM when they feel a sense of connection and belonging, which helps them develop a STEM identity. Afterschool STEM programs play a key role in fostering this identity.
High-quality, STEM-focused afterschool programs increase youth interest in and knowledge of STEM careers. They also help youth build 21st century skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Research shows that informal STEM programs outside of school provide joyful, hands-on learning experiences that effectively engage students—including those who may struggle in traditional classrooms.
Afterschool STEM programs provide vital opportunities for youth to connect with mentors and role models who inspire interest in STEM careers. These connections help students develop a stronger STEM identity, build career awareness, and see real-world applications of what they’re learning.
