This summer, the National Research Council (NRC) released Identifying and Supporting Productive STEM Programs in Out-of-School Settings, identifying three criteria for programs to result in strong outcomes for students: 1) engage young people intellectually, academically, socially and emotionally, 2) respond to young people’s interests, experiences and cultural practices, and 3) connect STEM learning in out-of-school, school, home and other settings. The report, authored by the NRC Committee on Successful Out-of-School STEM Learning, identifies six recommendations for actions that policymakers, program developers and stakeholders should consider for developing and maintaining productive programs. Download a free PDF of the report here and on the project website. Also, listen to a webcast of the public briefing about the report here.