Looking Ahead: Taking the Next STEM Steps
Every year, more communities and schools across the state decide they want to join the North Carolina New Schools STEM school network. Currently, North Carolina New Schools is helping to create a large number of STEM schools in the affinity networks; these schools will prepare students for college and beyond, including careers in industries related to their school's theme. Ultimately, STEM schools will be located in every corner of the state.
In addition, North Carolina New Schools is working to enhance STEM curriculum at the middle school level as well. Seasoned teachers from the current crop of STEM schools are offering professional development workshops to middle school science and math teachers; a recent grant will help boost these efforts, reaching more teachers.
Eventually, North Carolina New Schools' STEM education goal includes helping communities create middle schools devoted to STEM themes. By exposing students to STEM ideas, instruction, projects and opportunities as early as the sixth grade -- a time of great vulnerability for many students -- North Carolina New Schools hopes to pave the way to a successful high school experience for as many kids as possible.
