Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf recently announced that more than $5 million in grants are available for schools across the state to increase their STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and computer science programming. The grants are part of the PAsmart initiative, which aims to ensure that students have access to high-quality STEM and computer science education to prepare them for the jobs of the future.
The grants are available to schools, school districts, intermediate units, and charter schools in Pennsylvania. Schools can apply for grants ranging from $20,000 to $35,000 to support a variety of STEM and computer science programs, including professional development for teachers, curriculum development, and the purchase of equipment and resources.
One of the key goals of the grants is to increase access to STEM and computer science education for underrepresented groups, including students of color, students from low-income families, and students with disabilities. By providing funding for schools to expand their STEM and computer science programming, the grants aim to ensure that all students have the opportunity to develop the skills they need to succeed in the 21st-century workforce.
In addition to providing funding for schools to enhance their STEM and computer science programs, the grants also support partnerships between schools and local businesses and industry partners. These partnerships can help schools to provide students with real-world learning experiences and expose them to potential career opportunities in STEM fields.
The PAsmart initiative is part of Governor Wolf’s broader efforts to strengthen Pennsylvania’s workforce and economy by investing in education and workforce development. By providing schools with the resources they need to expand their STEM and computer science programming, the grants aim to ensure that Pennsylvania remains competitive in the global economy and that students are prepared for the jobs of the future.
Schools interested in applying for the grants can find more information on the PAsmart website. The deadline for applications is fast approaching, so schools are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to take advantage of this valuable funding opportunity.
Overall, the availability of more than $5 million in grants for schools to increase their STEM and computer science programming is a significant investment in Pennsylvania’s future. By providing schools with the resources they need to expand their STEM and computer science programs, the grants will help to ensure that all students have access to high-quality education that prepares them for success in the 21st-century workforce.