The STEM Pulse
Whether you're an educator inspiring young minds, a policymaker shaping the landscape of STEM education, or an industry partner bridging classroom learning with real-world applications, your role in our Ecosystems is vital. Together, we're not just adapting to the future—we're actively creating it. Stay connected at www.stemecosystems.org
ECOSYSTEM SPOTLIGHT
LASTEM | Roots of Innovation: How LASTEM is Cultivating STEM in Early Childhood
In the heart of Louisiana, a revolutionary approach to early childhood education is unfolding, where the boundaries between literacy and STEM are dissolving. The “STEM through Literacy” program, championed by the Louisiana STEM Advisory Council (LASTEM) and Central Creativity, is transforming the way young minds engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Join us for Episode 2: Translating Policy into Action on April 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM ET We'll continue the conversation with practical advocacy strategies.
STEM NEWS
AI Literacy Day | National AI Literacy Day Organization
National AI Literacy Day, on March 28, 2025, aims to educate students, parents, educators, and communities about AI through curriculum, professional development, and local events. This initiative fosters understanding of AI's role in shaping education and society, emphasizing safety, ethics, and responsible AI use, which is crucial for preparing future generations for a tech-driven world.
Youth Voice Week
Youth Voice Week, held from March 24 to 28, 2025, is a celebration that amplifies the perspectives of young people involved in afterschool programs, highlighting their experiences and the impact of these programs on their lives. This initiative is crucial for understanding the role of afterschool activities in youth development and education, providing a platform for young voices to be heard. Afterschool Alliance Collective for Youth Empowerment in STEM & Society (CYESS)
The End of Knowledge Work As We Know It | Forbes
The rise of Generative AI is transforming the landscape of knowledge work, potentially phasing out tasks typically performed by knowledge workers. This shift will require humans to focus on "real work" that leverages unique cognitive abilities, while AI handles repetitive tasks like metawork and grunt work, which are less resistant to automation.
Quantum Computing Explained | National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
Quantum computers harness quantum physics to solve complex problems that classical computers struggle with, offering potential breakthroughs in drug discovery, cybersecurity, and optimization. These advancements could revolutionize industries by solving problems that currently take years in mere seconds, though significant technical challenges remain. Learn more
2025 Teach Engineering Champions Application
Apply to become a Teach Engineering Champion and attend the Teach Engineering Champions Institute. A Teach Engineering Champion is a K-12 formal or informal educator who demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing engineering education. They are passionate about fostering innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking in all students through the teaching of engineering concepts, skills, and practices. Applications will close on April 30, 2025
Talent Shortages Challenge US Employers | Staffing Industry Analysts
71% of US employers face challenges in finding skilled talent, with IT and data skills being the most difficult to find, particularly in AI/ML and cybersecurity. Employers are addressing these shortages by increasing wages, upskilling current employees, and leveraging AI and automation solutions, reflecting the need for innovative strategies in a rapidly evolving job market.
League of Innovative Schools | Digital Promise
The application for the League of Innovative Schools 2025-2026 cohort is now open! Learn more and apply by April 30, 2025.
ADVOCACY & FUNDING
Executive Order to Dismantle U.S. Department of Education | Afterschool Alliance
The Trump Administration has issued an Executive Order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, which would involve significant legal challenges and require legislative action. This move could impact critical programs like the 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which provide essential afterschool and summer learning opportunities for millions of students. Learn more
Speak Up for Museums and Science Centers | ASTC
The Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) is urging museums and science centers to advocate for continued federal support, particularly in light of a recent Executive Order that threatens to cut funding to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This advocacy is crucial as IMLS plays a vital role in supporting museums across the U.S., enhancing their ability to serve communities and promote lifelong learning through federal support for museums.
Future Support for Women and Girls in STEM | National Girls Collaborative
This webinar explores the future of support for women and girls in STEM, focusing on strategies to address persistent gender gaps in education and career opportunities. By understanding the current policy landscape and its impact on STEM engagement, educators and policymakers can develop effective strategies to enhance access and preparation for girls and women, ultimately bridging the gap in the STEM workforce through initiatives like those discussed in the webinar recording.
K-12 Funding Toolkit: A Strategic Guide for States | Education Commission of the States
This toolkit provides a strategic guide for states to reform K-12 funding, emphasizing principles of transparency, student-centeredness, adequacy, fairness, and sustainability. It offers actionable strategies and state examples to help leaders design effective funding formulas that support student success and address varying local needs.
STEM EVENTS
WEBINAR: The Advancement of Fusion Technology
The Center for Excellence in Education (CEE), Advisor to the Congressional STEM Education Caucus, will host an exciting webinar discussion focused on the future of fusion and its increased uses, including participant Q&A.
Date: Apr 1, 2025 9:00 AM | Register Here
AI for Economic Opportunity & Advancement | Jobs for the Future (JFF)
Join JFF for a virtual fireside chat to dive deeper into their research and explore questions about AI's potential. They’ll discuss what they’ve learned and the actions that members in the learn-and-work ecosystem can take to ensure that everyone is better off in an AI-powered world.
Date: Apr 24, 2025 02:00 PM | Register Here
May 19-21: NCWIT Virtual Summit
The NCWIT Summit provides unique opportunities to learn about research-backed strategies and promising practices designed to foster opportunities, both in computing education and within the broader tech workforce. Learn More