Key Programs

Programs of the Arkansas STEM Coalition and ecosystem partners focus on linking leaders from institutions of higher education, business and industry, K12 public and private schools, and Out-of-School Time to professional development, best practices and resources and engaging students and adults of all ages in hands-on quality driven and connected STEM learning opportunities. The Arkansas STEM Coalition works with the state’s network of 12 University STEM Centers to administer programs such as: STEM Girls Leadership Conferences: Conferences for girls in 7th – 12th grade held on university campuses across the state. Girls explore STEM based fields of study, careers, and connect with professionals while engaging in hands-on learning programs throughout the day. Health Sciences Career Tech Days: Conferences for 8th grade students focused on increasing students’ interest and engagement in Health Sciences careers. Students are introduced to nontraditional Health Science careers and encouraged to consider these careers and prepare by taking more advanced math/ science courses in middle and high school. Science Equipment for grades 3-6: Grants to support the purchase of science equipment for 3rd – 6th grade students are distributed to the 12 statewide STEM Centers. The Centers provide professional development as well as science equipment aligned to state science standards to classroom teachers. Laptop loan program: Community based programs such as faith based organization, Out-of-School Time programs, schools and other youth serving organizations can borrow up to 130 laptops at a time to provide coding or computer science workshops to youth. Quarterly and Regional Meetings and STEM Summits: The Arkansas STEM Coalition hosts quarterly and regional meetings and an annual STEM Summit to convene stakeholders from all sectors, including PK-12 education, higher education, Out-of-School Time, business and industry and other professionals to share best practices and resources in STEM education and provide professional development for formal and informal educators alike.