Why is STEM Learning so important to out-of-school time programs?
Expanded STEM Learning opportunities are extremely popular in out-of-school time programs in Virginia. Afterschool and summer learning programs are uniquely situated to spark interest by allowing children and youth the space to explore and experiment with STEM while eliminating the repercussions of academic failure. Furthermore, the environment encourages students to dive deep into specific STEM topics and collaborate with similarly interested peers. Investment in STEM education is critical in preparing Virginia’s future workforce, given that the Commonwealth is steeped in demand for STEM-based careers. As such, VPOST has named advancing OST STEM as a top initiative.
STEM Next in Virginia
VPOST is proud to be a part of the STEM Next Opportunity Fund, a nationwide network of local and state partners, sparking young people’s curiosity and confidence in STEM through hands-on learning opportunities beyond the classroom – connecting STEM to their interests, lives, and future careers.
Partners in the STEM Next Opportunity Fund include founders — The Intel Foundation, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation — and a growing number of technology leaders, charitable organizations, and other entities, such as Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Samueli Foundation, Qualcomm, NASA, STEMconnector, National Girls Collaborative Project, and Jobs For The Future (JFF).
How Does STEM Next Work?
STEM Next invests in bold strategies, connecting partners across sectors, and equipping the out-of-school field with tools and resources to scale what works. Leveraging national and state partners, they’ve proven that it’s possible to shift practice on a broad scale, making afterschool and summer STEM more engaging, effective, and widely available.
Brokering Connections
Intentionally connecting local programs to STEM leaders and creating large-scale gatherings that spark partnerships
Tracking What Works
Giving state afterschool leaders access to research-based assessment tools so network leads can see what’s working
Setting the Agenda
Developing research-backed frameworks to integrate cutting-edge approaches and career connections into daily programming
Sustaining a Movement
Training state and regional leaders so they can support implementation at the community program level
How You Can Get Involved
The STEM Next Opportunity Fund is unique in both its scale and approach. We invite educators, charitable organizations, technology leaders, and policy leaders to join us.
- Sign Up for Our Newsletter: Sign up for the VPOST twice-monthly STEM Next Newsletter. Here we will announce the latest news and updates. Opportunities include free STEM training and resources, grant opportunities, program spotlights, and more.
- Become a partner: Help us reach more youth by providing financial or in-kind support. We want to co-design partnerships of all sizes and from all sectors including workforce and STEM councils.
- Attend Events or Trainings: Events and trainings hosted by VPOST are offered on an on-going basis. Subscribe to our newsletter and social media for the latest opportunities. Below are examples of some of our current and past opportunities!
Featured VPOST STEM Projects
