NASA has recently allocated approximately $3.7 million to 17 museums, science centers, and other informal education institutions in order to promote enthusiasm for the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The funds will be utilized for various projects aimed at inspiring students and their support systems to actively engage in the wonder of STEM subjects.
Torry Johnson, the deputy associate administrator of STEM Engagement Programs at NASA Headquarters in Washington, has expressed enthusiasm for the expansion of informal education organizations through these awards. He firmly believes that these institutions play a crucial role in bringing the excitement of STEM and space exploration to students, ultimately helping to inspire the next generation of explorers and innovators. These awards are expected to catalyze partnerships that connect STEM education with NASA’s missions in communities throughout the United States.
The projects selected for NASA’s Teams Engaging Affiliated Museums and Informal Institutions (TEAM II) program and TEAM II Community Anchor Awards are financed through NASA’s Next Generation STEM project. This initiative is designed to support students, caregivers, and educators from kindergarten to grade 12, engaging the Artemis Generation with the agency’s missions and discoveries. The chosen projects will specifically target students from underserved communities, providing various STEM learning opportunities such as exhibits, mentorship, educational content, and hands-on activities.
The vision for NASA’s TEAM II program is to enhance informal education institutions’ capacity to host NASA-related learning activities while expanding their ability to bring NASA resources to students. Four institutions have been selected to receive approximately $3.2 million in cooperative agreements for projects they will implement over the next three to four years.
The 13 institutions that have been selected for the Community Anchor Awards have been recognized as locations that will bring NASA STEM and space science to students and families in traditionally underserved areas. These institutions are expected to receive approximately $510,000 in grants to support their projects, which will enhance local impact and strengthen their connections with NASA.
The Next Gen STEM project falls under NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement, which aims to create unique resources and experiences to ignite student interest in STEM and build a diverse next generation workforce.
For the latest NASA STEM events, activities, and news, please visit the official NASA website.
Gerelle Dodson
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-4637
[email protected]