$200,000 Funding Available to Boost Innovative STEM Education For K-12 Students

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's (LEO) MiSTEM Network will award grants for efforts to incorporate place-based approaches and real-world experiences that engage students and prepare them for careers in a variety of STEM fields. To help schools accomplish these goals, the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and LEO's MiSTEM Network have developed resources, information, and opportunities for students and educators. 

"We encourage schools and community partners across the state to take advantage of this grant opportunity and join us in gearing up today's talent for the jobs of the future,” said Susan Corbin, LEO director. “Grants like these are key to making sure Michigan businesses have the talent they need and preparing our students for these high-demand, high-skill career paths in STEM fields and beyond." 

Through previous grant funding to support innovative STEM 3-P (problem, place, and project-based) learning, the MiSTEM Network was able to work with grant recipients to develop a series of newly launched Playbooks that focus on transforming STEM education through 3-P learning by providing a roadmap for local community leaders to design and implement this new approach in their PK-12 curriculum. Each playbook includes real-world examples, advise, resources and best practices to bring STEM learning to life. 

“It is critical for Michigan to continue making investments in STEM education,” said Megan Schrauben, MiSTEM Network executive director. “The partnerships made through the MiSTEM Network allow PK-12 students to receive 3-P learning that will prepare them for future careers in STEM.”  

Last year, Wayne-Westland Community Schools was one of 16 3-P Grant recipients, using the funding to create a STEM culture, empower educators, integrate communities and learning spaces, and ensure high-quality STEM experiences for students. 

“As an educator in the STEM program here at Wayne-Westland, I’m very passionate about learning as much as I can to help ensure the success of our students,” said Amy Bidne, K-8 STEM Teacher and Coordinator for Wayne-Westland Community Schools. “Being involved in this grant program has supported my growth both professionally and personally and I’m excited to bring this unique learning opportunity to our students and community.” 

This year’s grant funding is available through a request for proposals to fund at least 10 proposals, with a maximum award of $20,000. Grants will be awarded to STEM educators interested in or already using 3-P learning to test MiSTEM playbooks and help model successful implementation of 3-P learning in other schools.  

Michigan Department of Education (MDE), a partner in creating the MiSTEM Playbooks, is also focused on utilizing efforts like the 3-P learning model that research shows will increase the percentage of students who graduate from high school. 

“STEM learning supports the Michigan Department of Education’s vision that “Every learner in Michigan's public schools will have an inspiring, engaging, and caring learning environment that fosters creative and critical thinkers who believe in their ability to positively influence Michigan and the world beyond,” said Dr. Delsa Chapman, MDE Deputy Superintendent for Educator, Students and School Supports and MiSTEM Council Member. 

Applicants must be part of a project team to qualify for funding. Teams must include one or more schools, local or intermediate school districts or public school academies, and one or more community partners. Applicants are encouraged to reach out to their MiSTEM Network Region for assistance.  

The grant application can be found on the MiSTEM website, and the deadline is Tuesday, April 14.  The 3-P grant opportunity is available through LEO's MiSTEM Network. It is a continuation of the From Students to Stewards Initiative and the MiSTEM Transformative Playbook grants. 

For more information and to apply for the grant funding, visit www.michigan.gov/MiSTEM.