Stem Learning Ecosystems RFQ and Afterschool Stem Toolkit

Recently announced resources on STEM learning ecosystems and afterschool STEM system-building.

Community-Based STEM Learning Ecosystems

The STEM Funders Network has launched the Building the Field: Designing and Implementing Community-Based STEM Learning Ecosystems Initiative to support the cultivation, scale and knowledge transfer of the best practices in building strong connections among a rich array of regional STEM assets with a vision to improve student performance in STEM fields and increase participation in STEM careers. At the root of the STEM Learning Ecosystem Initiative is a belief that young people can and should experience connected STEM learning everywhere. The STEM Learning Ecosystem Initiative will recognize and provide support to communities who are collaborating across sectors in new and creative ways. The STEM Funders Network is inviting communities from across the country to apply for participation by Friday, July 31, 2015. Selected sites will form a national Community of Practice and receive specialized technical assistance support towards the cultivation, design and implementation of their own STEM Learning Ecosystem. Up to 10 communities will also receive grants of $10,000. To learn more, please visit www.stemecosystems.org or contact michelle@stemecosystems.org.

STEM in Afterschool System-Building Toolkit

This online toolkit describes strategies and shares tools and resources to help build the supply and quality of informal science programming in afterschool and summer programs. It is meant to provide system builders at the city, state and local levels with a process framework, concrete strategies, examples and tools to inform their work. The strategies and tools were culled from the experience of the Mott-funded Statewide Afterschool Networks that have been intentionally working to develop statewide systems to support STEM in afterschool. Check out the toolkit at expandingstemlearning.org.