Research and Ideas
STEM Ready America
STEM Ready America is a compendium from 40 authors presenting bold and persuasive evidence—as well as real-world examples of effective practices, programs, and partnerships—on how science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) knowledge and skills are preparing young people to be successful in school today and the workforce tomorrow.
STEM learning is key to breaking the generational cycle of poverty and to reducing income inequality. It greatly enhances educational opportunity and has been particularly effective at advancing children of color and girls. All children, regardless of zip code, race, ethnicity, national origin or gender have a basic right to the opportunity to prepare for the knowledge-based economy.
STEM Learning in Afterschool Works
Evaluating results from 160 programs in 11 states, The Afterschool & STEM System-Building Evaluation 2016 revealed important results: Participating in afterschool STEM programs improves students’ reported attitudes, knowledge, and skills.
The PEAR Institute and IMMAP: Institute for Measurement, Methodology, Analysis & Policy at Texas Tech University conducted an analysis of student self-reported change shows that participation in a STEM afterschool program greatly increases positive attitudes towards STEM.
News & Ideas
Budget Appropriations Have Begun – Here’s What You Need to Know
The appropriations process takes a long time. Some years it takes longer than others. The budget process usually kicks off when the President announces budget
Summer of Joy: Six Ideas to Imagine New Possibilities with STEM
As winter recedes and spring brings signs of life, beauty, and wonder of the world around us, the time is perfect for reimagining moments that
Youth Employment Works Launch – Centering Young People in Workforce Development Opportunities
On March 9th, the U.S. Department of Labor announced its Youth Employment Works strategy, a vision for how the workforce system serves young people across
“Secret sauce” for Impactful Family Engagement: Our Lessons Learned from a Community of Practice
Family engagement has magical powers that support children’s engagement in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). When families learn and play together, the possibilities for
FY24 Budget Recommendations: What Out-Of-School STEM Leaders Should Know
On Thursday, March 9th, the President released his budget request to Congress for fiscal year 2024. Additional details have continued to emerge, as agencies post
Who, How, When, and Where We Talk About Engineering Careers Matters
“A professed interest in STEM careers is a more accurate predictor of pursuing an education and subsequent career than test scores.” (Goodwin. The development of