Scale-Up Programs
The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council’s Scale-Up Program brings research-backed STEM programs to PK-12 students and supports educators with professional development. Selected annually through a competitive process, funded programs reach schools, libraries, youth organizations, and Extension programs across Iowa’s six STEM regions.
For more information on how Scale-Up works and how to apply, visit https://educate.iowa.gov/iowa-stem/stem-scale or contact Casey Wenstrand, Southwest Regional STEM Manager, to set up a time to chat.
STEM BEST®
STEM BEST® (Businesses Engaging Students & Teachers) connects schools and businesses to create hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for high-demand STEM careers in their communities. Educators and industry professionals collaborate to design real-world projects that build future-ready skills.
For more information or to apply, visit https://educate.iowa.gov/iowa-stem/stem-best or contact Casey Wenstrand, Southwest Regional STEM Manager, to learn more.
Iowa STEM Teacher Externship
Teacher Externships connect math, science, and technology teachers with local businesses for six-week summer experiences. Educators work alongside industry professionals, gain real-world insights to bring back to their classrooms, and earn up to $5,000 plus one graduate credit through the University of Northern Iowa.
For more information or to apply, visit https://educate.iowa.gov/iowa-stem/stem-teacher-externships or contact Casey Wenstrand.
Become an Iowa STEM Teacher Externship Workplace Host
Partner with Iowa’s STEM Teacher Externships program by hosting a secondary teacher for a six-week summer experience. Engage teachers in real-world projects, enhance your workforce, and build lasting school-business connections. Hosts gain visibility through program promotions and contribute to developing a skilled future workforce.
For more information or to apply, visit https://educate.iowa.gov/iowa-stem/stem-teacher-externships or contact Casey Wenstrand.
Iowa STEM Teacher Award
The Iowa STEM Teacher Award, sponsored by Google, recognizes one outstanding PK–12 teacher from each of Iowa’s six STEM regions for excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. Each recipient receives $1,500 for personal use and $1,500 for classroom resources.
For more information or to apply, visit https://educate.iowa.gov/iowa-stem/stem-teacher-award or contact Casey Wenstrand.