Posted 28 May, 2025
The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education today announced 12 STEM BEST Program model partner schools have been awarded over $200,000 in competitive grants as part of a pilot program this summer. STEM BEST Explore will allow existing STEM BEST Program model partner schools to extend work-based and career-connected learning opportunities for students throughout this summer.
“Learning doesn’t end when summer starts. Through this unique pilot program, students across Iowa can participate in work-based learning and real-world STEM experiences where they apply their knowledge, build networks and gain clarity on their future goals,” said Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. “The opportunities supported by the STEM BEST Explore pilot will help students see the connection between the classroom and the workplace, supporting Iowa’s strong talent pipeline for in-demand STEM jobs.”
The STEM BEST® (Businesses Engaging Students and Teachers) Program provides students with career-connected learning experiences. Students and teachers work closely with local workplaces and professionals to introduce and prepare learners for future success in their communities. By helping schools identify and anticipate local workforce needs in collaboration with business professionals, the STEM BEST® Program is able to strengthen Iowa’s future workforce through the development and expansion of work-based learning and career exploration opportunities.
“Students are excited for these expanded hands-on summer opportunities,” said Tanya Hunt, STEM BEST Program coordinator. “The Department of Education is pleased to offer the STEM BEST Explore pilot this summer to support existing models in reaching more students who may not have been able to access work-based learning opportunities during the traditional school year.”
Through an application and review process, the following 12 STEM BEST Program models have been awarded up to $20,000 each to put toward their summer experiences.