$4 million to bolster STEM Education Programs

SEATTLE - Washington STEM has announced nearly $4 million in investments in innovative, regionally based programs aimed at improving teaching and learning of science, engineering, technology, and math across Washington state.

"These investments will bring STEM professionals, educators, and communities together to improve STEM education and prepare our students for the STEM careers that drive Washington state's economy," Washington STEM CEO Patrick D'Amelio said.

Subject to meeting specific grant requirements, each of the seven regional STEM networks will receive $200,000 over the next three years. They would partner with Washington STEM and continue growing systems in which educators, employers, and community leaders work together to match STEM education to STEM career opportunities in their communities.

"The grant will bring STEM professionals into classrooms and students into STEM work places in south-central Washington communities and build programs that train our young people for the jobs of the future," said Jeff Charbonneau, ESD 105 STEM Coordinator.

According to Charbonneau, The mission of the South Central (ESD 105) STEM Network is to inform, educate, and involve south central Washington community partners in the development of a highly skilled workforce that recognizes 21st century knowledge, skills.

Washington STEM is a statewide nonprofit that advances excellence, equity, and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.

Launched in March 2011 with support from the business, education, and philanthropic communities, its goal is to re imagine and revitalize STEM education across Washington.