STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) activities are an essential part of the broad array of activities offered by high quality afterschool programs throughout Missouri. STEM jobs are the future of our economy, and STEM teaches critical and creative thinking and provides unique opportunities for developing teamwork and other social-emotional skills. The Missouri Afterschool Network has forged partnerships with national organizations such as the National Girls Collaborative Project, the National Science Foundation, and the Million Girls Moonshot project. Our STEM taskforce includes partnerships with the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, STEM St. Louis, the Kansas City STEM Alliance, the Missouri Math and Science Coalition, and the Missouri University of Science and Technology.
The National Girls Collaborative Project developed the Moonshot’s Access to STEM Framework, a research-based model for informing and guiding equitable and inclusive program design. Using the framework as a foundation, NGCP has provided professional development for afterschool networks and programs, facilitated a Community of Practice, and developed a portal of assets within the IF/THEN® Collection specifically for the MGM audience.
- Access to STEM Framework
- Engineering Mindset Framework
- STEM Family Engagement Planning Tool aims to promote effective and equitable family engagement in STEM. The key ideas, strategies, and examples are organized around the new framework CARE: Connect, Act, Reflect, and Empower. The framework can be used to support and improve the capacity of program staff, families, and youth, with focus on the area’s most important for STEM teaching and learning, including knowledge and skills, values and beliefs, and networks of support.
See our Resource Library to find more information, strategies, and best practices on STEM content, equipment, and professional development.
