STEM BEST Program supports schools and businesses to expand experiential learning

March 10, 2021

The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council is now accepting applications for the STEM BEST (Business Engaging Students and Teachers) Program, which brings schools and businesses together to provide students with real workplace experiences. The program helps students:

  • Discover their passions.
  • Gain career-ready skills.
  • Introduces them to businesses and career opportunities in Iowa.

The STEM BEST Program encourages teachers and industry professionals to develop a work-based learning model that incorporates STEM subjects (like mathematics and science) with experiential learning opportunities to emphasize the necessary skills for the workplace. The awards can be used for:

  • Curriculum development and coordination.
  • Educator training and development in workplace-classroom integration.
  • Preparing the work-based learning environment.

The application is available to Iowa public and non-public school districts and buildings serving students in grades K-12. The deadline for submitting applications is May 10, 2021.

The STEM Council has designated a portion of the state legislative funding to support the establishment of Iowa STEM BEST Program models across each of Iowa’s six STEM regions. Successful applicants will become an Iowa STEM BEST Program model of the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council. A total of 75 STEM BEST Program awards have been made throughout Iowa since 2014.

Past STEM BEST Program award recipients are eligible to apply for expanding current programs. Award recipients for the 2021-2022 STEM BEST Program will be announced in summer 2021. For more information, please contact Kay Schmalen, School Improvement/Technology Consultant.