Key Programs

In 2015-17, the DC STEM Network convened a working group to create a pilot for STEM School recognition in DC. The group reviewed and adopted the STEM Excellence Pathway Tool (from Carnegie Science Center) and the STEM School Taxonomy (from Outlier Research) to launch a pilot in 2017. The pilot has now transitioned to OSSE for sustainability.

In response to recommendations from a working group, in 2016 the Network launched the Network Ambassador Program. Network Ambassadors are community connectors, trained in STEM resources, that disseminate information to students, families, and educators. In the first year, 11 ambassadors had more than 16,000 student, family, and educator interactions.

In response to recommendations from a 2017 working group, the Network launched the STEM Observers program to train individuals in the Pear Dimensions of Success Tool. In 2018, the Network now offers free observations to OST programs.

In 2015, the Network’s seven working groups created four landscape surveys to identify gaps in access to STEM learning in DC across schools, out-of-school time programs, through mentoring and volunteering, and through professional development. The landscape surveys were recognized as a national best practice for STEM networks by STEMx.

In 2015, the Network launched a one-stop shop website to connect partners and families to resources, programs, and events through its resource hub, program map, and calendar. The website is updated daily and now includes a volunteer request form, rating functionality for the resource hub, request for school or out-of-school (OST) support (e.g. STEM consultation sessions, STEM observations for OST programs), and Family FAQ Sheets (lists of questions by grade band, developed by a working group.