The STEM Learning Ecosystems Initiative, led by STEM Next and supported by the STEM Funders Network, is now accepting applications for its third cohort. Currently 37 communities are participating in this national ‘community of practice’ to support and advance a cross-sector approach to STEM learning. In early January, the ecosystems initiative released two assessments of the Initiative: Design for Success: Developing a STEM Ecosystem by the University of San Diego’s Institute for Entrepreneurship in Education, and STEM Learning Ecosystems: Evaluation and Assessment Findings by Harvard’s PEAR program.
‘Supporting each other’s growth:’ Why near-peer mentorship works to build STEM confidence
As we celebrate Mentorship Month this January, we’re focusing on the profound impact that peer mentors can have on young people’s STEM journeys. Near-peer mentorship—where