New grant awards from the Toshiba America Foundation to support exciting Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) education programs in grades 6-12
Orange County, Calif. — The Toshiba America Foundation (TAF) today announced nearly $20,000 in grants for 6 innovative classroom STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematic) projects in grades 6 through 12.
The grants will allow students to learn about biology, chemistry, engineering, math, physics, and environmental science. Additionally, the grants will address local community issues with innovative hands-on lessons, such as coding, robotics, marine science, and sustainability initiatives – the common thread across all 6 projects is that they incorporate novel ways to introduce STEM disciplines into the classroom.
One such grant is Ms. Jessica Hanson at the Hatch School, in Seattle, WA who creates and implements a novel high school molecular biology curriculum, designed specifically to encourage adolescent girls to remain engaged in STEM. Using identified best practices including problem-based learning, community centered projects, and an anchor in engaging, relevant storylines, students will gain the skills and confidence to make informed, science-based civic decisions and pursue future STEM careers if they so choose.
“STEM occupations are vital to the long-term growth and stability of the U.S. economy,” said John Anderson, President of TAF. “STEM education is key to cultivating the critical thinkers, problem solvers, and innovators that will drive our country forward. Through these grants, TAF is empowering teachers to create more dynamic and engaging STEM classrooms that inspire and challenge students to pursue careers in these essential fields. By investing in the next generation of STEM leaders, we are laying the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future for all.”
TAF’s grants take a “direct-to-teacher” approach by aiming to fund projects designed by innovative classroom teachers, which brings immediate results. Teachers are able to enhance the way they teach STEM subjects because the grant supports equipment for hands-on experiments and project-based learning in the curriculum. TAF believes that learning STEM subjects through this type of experience is a lot more fun and engaging than just reading a textbook.
STEM educators interested in applying for a K-5 TAF grant should apply here by Oct. 1. STEM educators interested in applying for a 6-12 TAF grant can apply here. The deadlines for > $5K are May 1 and Nov. 1. The deadlines for < $5K are March 1, June 1, Sept. 1, and Dec. 1.
