The Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance (MMSA), a non-profit dedicated to inspiring and fostering critical thinking, problem solving, and civic engagement through STEM education, has received a $1 million grant from the Harold Alfond Foundation to expand computer science (CS) education in Maine. The “STEM Workforce Ready Maine 2030” project will create a network of teacher leaders across Maine who are committed to integrating computer science learning in rural PreK-8 classrooms. This 3-year grant will allow MMSA to partner with rural school districts in creating a Research-Practice Partnership—a partnership that elevates educator voices and includes them in the research processes that will shape their future practices. The project will focus on developing engaging and effective lessons to inspire Maine’s STEM workforce of 2030: today’s rural elementary and middle school students.
The network STEM Workforce Ready Maine 2030 will create, and will be supported by, a group of diverse stakeholders including teachers, administrators, business leaders, and researchers. The project aims to train 100 rural educators and give 10,000 rural students access to foundational STEM educational experiences. This exciting project aims to lay the groundwork for truly scalable computer science education reform in Maine’s classrooms.
We are currently recruiting for three additional schools to join this project. Current partners include: SAD 44 Bethel, AOS 91 Mount Desert Island, and MSAD 46 Dexter. Preference will be given to schools that can commit an administrator as well as pairs of teachers in each grade band (K-2, 3-5, and 6-8). Schools that currently have little experience with CS are a priority. If your district is interested in participating, please have a district representative fill out this application by February 28, 2022. Any questions can be directed to Rhonda Tate, WFR Project Manager, rtate@mmsa.org.
To learn more about the Harold Alfond Foundation please visit: www.haroldalfondfoundation.org.
