18 Aug 2022 STEM Learning Ecosystems recognized in CHIPS and Science Act

The recently signed CHIPS and Science Act includes funding to scale best practices in STEM education. The $52 billion bipartisan plan to reinvigorate research, development and innovation recognizes the value of STEM Learning Ecosystems, which will be eligible to apply for National Science Foundation funding through a new K-12 STEM grant program.

STEM Learning Ecosystems bring together partners from K-12, higher education, business and industry, philanthropy, out-of-school STEM providers and others to improve STEM learning opportunities for all.

The inclusion of STEM Learning Ecosystems into the federal bill comes after months of planning and coordination led by the STEM Ed Coalition with support from the TIES, the backbone organization and co-founder of the national STEM Learning Ecosystems Community of Practice.

KC STEM Alliance Executive Director Martha McCabe, who worked locally with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran’s office on the issue, says the act will help more regions design the types of cross-sector initiatives can improve the economic trajectory for their communities and their residents.

Kansas City was officially recognized as a STEM Learning Ecosystem in 2015 and is part of a community of practice that now spans 100 regions.

Read the relevant section of the act (starting on page 605).