About the Arkansas STEM Coalition
We envision a world where Arkansas is a key participant in the global economy because our workforce has the skills and knowledge to compete in an increasingly STEM-based marketplace.
What is STEM?
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. High quality STEM education should include an integration of all of these subjects in hands-on, experiential projects and engage students in critical and creative thinking, problem solving, collaboration and communication skill building opportunities. STEM learning can take place inside the classroom, during Out-of-School time, within workplaces, and other places within the community.
Rigorous STEM learning, especially with a focus on mathematics and science, is key to helping youth excel in college and their career.
The economic impact of STEM is huge. Since 1990 STEM jobs have grown by 79% and will continue to grow over time (Pew Research Center, 2018). That is why we at the Arkansas STEM Coalition and our partners believe all youth should have an opportunity to experience high quality STEM learning and we are working hard to ensure this is a reality across the state.
What is the Arkansas STEM Coalition?
The Arkansas Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Coalition is a statewide partnership of leaders from the corporate, education, government and community sectors which plans, encourages, coordinates and advocates policies, strategies, and programs supportive of excellence in STEM teaching and learning in order to expand the economy of Arkansas and produce higher paying jobs.
Arkansas STEM Coalition Goals
Goal 1. Education and Engagement
Engage and inform education, business, and community partners to prepare STEM-skilled workers.
Goal 2. Resource Development and Sustainability
Develop, grow, and maintain a secure and sustainable financial base through diverse revenue streams including corporate support, foundation grants, individual donations, sponsorship, state and federal grants, and in-kind support.
Goal 3. Leadership Development and Capacity Building
Develop, grow, and maintain leadership including talented board members and executive staff to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability.
Goal 4. Marketing and Communication Development
Communicate the goals, vision, and value of the Arkansas STEM Coalition through a diverse set of marketing strategies to improve awareness of STEM education, its benefit, and its impact.
Objectives of the Arkansas Network of STEM Centers:
- Provide professional development opportunities for classroom teachers, administrators, and other educators.
- Strengthen the skills and preparation of pre-service teachers.
- Increase collaboration between the Schools of Arts and Sciences and the Schools of Education at institutions of higher education.
- Contribute to improving student achievement in mathematics and science.
- Assist schools in curriculum, instruction, and assessment improvements and reform.
- Foster partnerships with school districts in order to provide technical assistance.
- Promote collaboration and coordination of activities with the Educational Service Cooperatives.
- Support high quality mathematics and science education in the state.
- Coordinate with the Arkansas Department of Education in school improvement efforts.
- Serve as resources for mathematics, science, and technology materials.
